Silkie

A Silkie, also sometimes spelled Silky, is a breed of chicken named for its atypically fluffy plumage, which is said to feel like silk or satin. The Silkie has several other unusual characteristics, such as dark blue skin and bones, five toes on each foot (most chickens only have four), and feathered legs and feet. They also possess a walnut comb, unlike the typical serrated comb of many chicken breeds.

Silkies are believed to have originated in ancient China, and may have travelled west along the Silk Road. Marco Polo referenced chickens with fur-like feathers in his writings during the 13th century, which are thought to have been Silkies. The breed reached Europe sometime during the 16th century.

Silkies are known for their calm and docile temperament. They are frequently kept as ornamental birds and pets, and are also noted for their broodiness – a tendency to incubate eggs and raise chicks. This makes them popular choices for hatching the eggs of other poultry.

While they lay eggs, Silkies are not considered prolific egg layers. They typically produce smaller eggs than many other chicken breeds. Their unique appearance and agreeable nature outweigh their limited egg production for many keepers. Silkies come in a variety of recognized colors, including black, blue, buff, grey, partridge, splash, and white. The breed is also available in both bearded and non-bearded varieties.