Silkie
Gallus gallus domesticus
✨ Fait Amusant
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.
🏷️ Race
Silkie
💭 Tempérament
Calm, docile, gentle, exceptionally tame, devoted mothers
📏 Taille
Small-Medium (0.9-1.8 kg)
⏳ Espérance de vie
7-9 years
🎨 Couleurs
White (most common), black, blue, buff, partridge, grey, lavender
🌍 Origine
China; described by Marco Polo c. 1290; ancient Asian breed
🏠 Habitat
Enclosed dry housing essential — silk feathers are not waterproof
🍽️ Alimentation
Layer pellets or bantam crumbs; limited forager due to feathered head restricting vision
🎯 Usage
Ornamental
🥚 Couleur des œufs
Cream
👑 Type de crête
Walnut
🏅 Classe EE
Large Fowl