Buyer question
Are Silkie poultry good for beginners?
Yes: our Animal Library rates the Silkie poultry 4 out of 5 for beginners (gentle pet hen).
Source: the Silkie poultry page in the Everybarn Animal Library. Silkie poultry in the Animal Library
The detail
Silkies are an old Asian breed with fur-like feathers, black skin, five toes and a gentle nature. They are small, calm and famously broody, kept more as pets and mothers than for eggs, and they need protection from wet and cold.
- Best fit
- Families, pet flocks
- Hardiness
- 2 out of 5 (Not waterproof, cold-sensitive)
What to weigh
Silkie feathers are not waterproof, so they need dry shelter. Crests can block vision, and they are more prone to Marek's than many breeds, which makes vaccination important.