Silkies
The origin of these specific birds are some what unknown, though they are suspected to originate from China or in the Asian region. It was said that they was spread through out the European region by Napoleon whom traveled along it while trying to concur the region. Its also been said that he was also the one who gave the name to the breed; because the softness of their plumage.
They come in quite a few colors, although the most familiar is the white. Some of the other colors are black, blue, splash, gray, buff, red, chocolate, barred, partridge and a new color that is still in the works; red pyle. Silkies have feathered legs, which is basically what its called; feathers growing on the legs. Also they have 1 more extra toe on each foot, which is only common in very few other breeds. The color of the skin is what sets silkies out more then most chickens. The insides and out sides range from a dark blue to purplish shade. The earlobes are a beautiful shade of blue. And the big round dark brown eyes make you want to melt.
Silkies fall in the bantam category. Bantams are chickens just like all the rest, only difference is, they are smaller then the greater majority of chickens. The silkies how ever aren't the smallest of Bantams, they average 3-4 lbs at adult age. The hens are more compact and have a rounder top knot then the roosters, and are a little smaller.
Hens are very broody and make great mothers. Some roosters also have been known to make great �moms�. Getting caught setting on the nest of a hen in his cage, or taking the baby-sitting duties of the chicks. The temperament of this breed is very docile and tame. Usually they will hop up on your lap when setting in the farm yard, or run to your feet at feeding time. They make very good show birds for the fairs and random city poultry shows. Their type of the feathers make bathing them easier then most chickens. And they seem to like the special treatment, as they set there in the warm water getting a good foamy scrub down. They don't have a big urge to roost in trees or on man made branches. Most prefer to sleep on the ground or in a nest box; all huddled up together. |
