The Silkie, also known as the Silky or Chinese silk chicken, is a Chinese breed of chicken named for its atypically fluffy plumage, which is soft to the touch, like silk or fur. Other unusual qualities include black skin and bones, blue earlobes, and pentadactyly – most chickens have only four.
Silkies are well adapted to a variety of environments but prefer a sheltered living space due to their delicate plumage, which is not water-resistant. They thrive in backyards and small farms, needing protection from harsh weather and predators. Their habitat should include a coop and a run that protects them from dampness and cold.
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 4/5
Silkies are known for their docile and friendly temperament, making them excellent pets and a favorite for exhibition. They are not known for high egg production, but their unique appearance and gentle nature make them popular in backyard flocks. Silkies have been used in traditional Chinese medicine.
A foot of the Silkie Bantam that shows the phenomenon of polydactyly in the breed
Silkie soup sold in Bukit Batok, Singapore
Confinement Tolerance
Silkies tolerate confinement well due to their calm nature. They are not very flighty and do not require a large space, but they benefit from safe, predator-proofed areas. They enjoy interacting and are excellent for small backyard setups.
