Silkie vs Cochin
Silkie or Cochin? A side-by-side comparison of size, lifespan, temperament, care needs and observed prices, from our Animal Library.
At a glance
| Silkie | Cochin | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Pet, show, broody hens | Pet, show |
| Origin | China | China |
| Adult weight | Hens 2–3 lb, roosters 3–4 lb | Hens 8.5 lb, roosters 11 lb |
| Lifespan | 7–9 years | 8–10 years |
| Eggs | About 100 cream eggs a year | About 150 light brown eggs a year |
| Best fit | Families, pet flocks | Families, pet flocks |
| Noise | ●●●●● Quiet hens | ●●●●● Quiet, calm |
| Hardiness | ●●●●● Not waterproof, cold-sensitive | ●●●●● Cold hardy, heat hard |
| Egg output | ●●●●● Frequent broodiness | ●●●●● Moderate layer |
| Beginner fit | ●●●●● Gentle pet hen | ●●●●● Gentle pet hen |
| Observed price | Not enough prices yet | Not enough prices yet |
How they differ
- Noise: about the same (2 of 5 each).
- Hardiness: the Cochin rates higher than the Silkie (3 of 5 vs 2).
- Egg output: about the same (2 of 5 each).
- Beginner fit: the Cochin rates higher than the Silkie (5 of 5 vs 4).
The Silkie
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.
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.
The Cochin
Cochins came from China in the 1840s and started the Victorian poultry craze. They are large, fluffy and feather-footed, very calm and broody, and bantam Cochins are among the most popular pet chickens.
Cochins lay fewer eggs than production breeds and go broody often. Thick feathers make them struggle in heat and hold mud on their feet.
Questions
Is a Silkie or a Cochin better for a beginner?
The Cochin rates higher for beginners (5 of 5 vs 4). Silkie: Gentle pet hen. Cochin: Gentle pet hen.
What is the main difference between a Silkie and a Cochin?
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. By contrast, cochins lay fewer eggs than production breeds and go broody often. Thick feathers make them struggle in heat and hold mud on their feet.