Frizzle
Gallus gallus domesticus
✨ Fait Amusant
The frizzling gene (F) works differently depending on how many copies a chicken inherits. One copy gives the classic curled feathers of a show Frizzle. Two copies — called 'Frazzle' — produces an extreme curl that actually breaks and wears away the feathers entirely, causing feather loss and health problems. Responsible breeders always cross a Frizzle with a smooth-feathered bird to maintain the attractive single-copy frizzle appearance.
The Frizzle is defined not by geographical origin but by its unique feather mutation — each feather curls outward and forward rather than lying flat, giving the bird a permanently ruffled, windswept appearance as if it has just stepped out of a storm. Recognised as a distinct breed by the EE and many national poultry clubs, the Frizzle can come in several sizes and body types, but the defining feature is always the frizzling gene (F), which is semi-dominant. Frizzles have appeared in European poultry literature since the 1600s and are kept today almost entirely as exhibition and ornamental birds, though they lay a reasonable number of eggs. The feather structure provides less insulation than normal plumage, so they are more sensitive to cold and wet conditions.
🏷️ Race
Frizzle
💭 Tempérament
Calm, docile, gentle, good with children, exhibition-oriented
📏 Taille
Medium (2.7-3.6 kg)
⏳ Espérance de vie
5-8 years
🎨 Couleurs
Black, white, blue, buff, red, cuckoo — all colours permitted; key feature is feather curl
🌍 Origine
Europe — feather mutation documented since 17th century; standardised as a breed by EE
🏠 Habitat
Sheltered housing required — frizzled feathers offer poor weatherproofing
🍽️ Alimentation
Layer pellets; limited foraging due to feather type
🎯 Usage
Ornamental
🥚 Couleur des œufs
Tinted
👑 Type de crête
Single
🏅 Classe EE
Large Fowl