Silkie
Gallus gallus domesticus
✨ Dato Curioso
Silkies have black skin, black bones, and black internal organs caused by the fibromelanosis gene — the same gene found in the Svarthöna and Ayam Cemani. In Chinese and Southeast Asian traditional medicine, black Silkie meat is used in soups believed to restore health, and is prescribed by Chinese herbalists for thousands of years.
One of the most distinctive and beloved chicken breeds in the world, the Silkie has feathers that lack the interlocking barbicels found in normal plumage — each feather is soft, flowing, and silky to the touch, resembling fur rather than feathers. Uniquely, Silkies have black skin, black bones, black internal organs, and blue earlobes, plus five toes rather than the usual four. Originating in China and mentioned by Marco Polo around 1290, Silkies are among the world's most ancient recognised breeds. Their exceptionally docile nature and strong brooding instinct make them the foster mothers of the poultry world.
🏷️ Raza
Silkie
💭 Temperamento
Calm, docile, gentle, exceptionally tame, devoted mothers
📏 Tamaño
Small-Medium (0.9-1.8 kg)
⏳ Esperanza de vida
7-9 years
🎨 Colores
White (most common), black, blue, buff, partridge, grey, lavender
🌍 Origen
China; described by Marco Polo c. 1290; ancient Asian breed
🏠 Hábitat
Enclosed dry housing essential — silk feathers are not waterproof
🍽️ Dieta
Layer pellets or bantam crumbs; limited forager due to feathered head restricting vision
🎯 Propósito
Ornamental
🥚 Color del huevo
Cream
👑 Tipo de cresta
Walnut
🏅 Clase EE
Large Fowl