The Scots Dumpy is a traditional Scottish breed of chicken. It is characterised by very short legs, so short that the body is a few centimetres from the ground; as in other breeds of creeper chicken, this chondrodystrophy is caused by a recessive lethal allele. The Dumpy has at times been known by other names, among them Bakie, Corlaigh, Crawler, Creeper and Stumpy. There are both standard-sized and bantam Scots Dumpies. It is one of two Scottish breeds of chicken, the other being the Scots Grey.
The Scots Dumpy is well-suited to the temperate climate of Scotland. It can adapt to various weather conditions and thrives in free-range environments where it can forage. Despite its short legs, it can manage uneven terrain quite well.
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 3/5
The Scots Dumpy is a distinctive breed due to its extremely short legs, which are the result of a genetic condition. This characteristic has historically been valued for its unique appearance. The breed also has a long history in Scotland and has been known by various names throughout the years.