The Silkie is a very unique breed of chicken is the smallest chicken in the world plumage. Silkies come in a range of colors and are a very popular breed for small scale chicken keepers and showers. Originating from China, these birds have been bred for both good egg laying and meat. They have black skin and bones, and five toes instead of four.
Temperament
Silkies are very docile and tolerant. Hens are renowned for their own egg-sitting ability, and are even known to go broody over golf balls or fake eggs.They will also adopt baby ducks, quail, geese, or other hens' chicks, and are sometimes used to hatch the eggs of rare birds, such as bald eagles, as a part of species rehabilitation programs. They bear confinement relatively well; however like all breeds of chicken, must be allowed to at least nurture their natural instincts. They are often the best choice for people who are new to keeping chickens as pets.
Broodiness
Silkie hens are renowned for their broodiness and egg-sitting ability. These hens will quite often go broody on any egg or even objects that are similar looking, despite a rooster not being present, so it's quite useful to always check for eggs under them, so they do not get spoiled.
Showing Information
Silkies are often used in shows, particularly the roosters for their unique differences. They have walnut combs, 5 toes (instead of the usual 4), feathered feet, their unique feathers, black skin and bones, and are crested. This alone gives them a high advantage in shows.
Recognized Varieties
Currently, the recognized varieties are:
Bearded and Non-Bearded
Black
White
Partridge
Gray
Blue
Splash
Egg Production
Silkies tend to lay 3-4 times a week, however each bird varies. Egg color is a cream or tinted color.
Nutritional Needs
Because of their feathering, silkies have greater nutritional needs. These needs are usually satisfied when they are allowed to wander about the yard; however giving grown hens egg laying feed should suffice otherwise.