The Silkie is one of the most distinctive and recognisable chicken breeds in the world. Known for their fluffy, fur-like feathers and gentle nature, Silkies are often described as looking more like soft toys than traditional chickens.
Silkie chickens are popular in both the UK and the USA, although there are some differences in appearance and breeding standards between the two. Regardless of type, Silkies are best known for their calm temperament and unique characteristics.
If you’d like to learn more about our sanctuary and the animals we care for, you can visit our About Us page.
Silkie chickens are thought to have originated in Asia and have been admired for centuries. They are instantly recognisable thanks to their unusual plumage, which lacks the barbicels found in normal feathers. As a result, their feathers have a soft, silky appearance.
In addition to their fluffy coats, Silkies are known for several other unusual traits, including dark skin, blue earlobes, and five toes instead of the usual four.
Silkies are popular in both the UK and the USA, although breeding standards can differ slightly. In the UK, Silkies are typically smaller and bred to specific colour and feather standards.
In the USA, Silkies are often larger and may have a more rounded appearance. Despite these differences, both UK and USA Silkies share the same gentle temperament and distinctive features.
Silkies are known for their calm, friendly, and docile nature. They are often one of the easiest chicken breeds to handle and are well suited to sanctuary environments, family settings, and educational experiences.
Because of their gentle behaviour, Silkies are sometimes bullied by more assertive chicken breeds. For this reason, they often do best when kept with other calm birds.
Silkies are famous for being extremely broody. They frequently want to sit on eggs and are known for being excellent mothers.
Because of this strong brooding instinct, Silkies are often used to hatch eggs from other chicken breeds.
Silkies require slightly different care compared to other chickens. Their fluffy feathers are not waterproof, which means they need dry, sheltered areas, especially during wet weather.
Good hygiene is also important, as their feathering can pick up dirt more easily. Regular checks help keep them clean, comfortable, and healthy.
Our Silkie chickens are much-loved residents and are often favourites with visitors. Their gentle personalities and unusual appearance make them a wonderful introduction to poultry for people of all ages.
If you would like to meet our Silkies and other animals in person, you can find more information here: Visit Northcote Horses & Animals
As a registered charity, the care we provide depends on public support. By supporting our sanctuary, you help us continue to provide safe and lifelong care for animals like our Silkie chickens: Support Our Sanctuary
Silkie chickens have feathers that lack barbicels, which means the feathers do not lock together. This gives them their soft, fluffy, fur-like appearance.
Yes, Silkies are known for their calm and gentle temperament. With appropriate supervision, they are often very good with children.
UK Silkies are generally smaller and bred to specific colour standards, while USA Silkies are often larger with a more rounded appearance. Both types share the same gentle nature.
Yes, Silkies do lay eggs, although they are not prolific layers. Their eggs are usually small to medium in size and cream or lightly tinted in colour.
Silkies can be hardy when kept in dry, sheltered conditions. Because their feathers are not waterproof, they require extra protection from wet and cold weather.
