Chicken Breed Spotlight: The Chinese Silkie Breed
Chicken keeping has become a popular hobby among suburbanites, and one of the most important decisions to make when starting a flock is choosing the right breeds to add to your chicken coop. But with so many different breeds of chickens, how do you know what to choose?
In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about Chinese Silkie chickens, including their personality, egg production, and lifespan. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or a newcomer to the hobby, this comprehensive guide will help you decide if Chinese Silkies are the right breed for you and your flock.
But if you just want the TLDR version, we have a handy table below with our summary.
| Breed | Chinese Silkie |
| Adult size | Small breed, weighing 1.4-1.8kg |
| Eggs per year | 100-120 |
| Eggs per week | 2-3 |
| Chinese Silkie egg size | Small eggs |
| Chinese Silkie egg colour | cream eggs |
| Lifespan | 5-8 years |
| Suitable for backyard flocks? | Yes |
How big do Chinese Silkie chickens get?
Chinese Silkies are a Small-sized chicken breed, with adult hens weighing around 1.4-1.8kg.
What do Chinese Silkie chickens look like?
They are known for their soft, silky feathers and calm disposition. These birds come in a variety of colours, including black, blue, buff, gray, and white. They are also highly prized for their distinctive appearance.
The personality and temperament of Chinese Silkie chickens
In terms of personality, the Chinese Silkie is a docile bird that is well-suited for families and pet owners. They are friendly and calm, making them easy to handle and great for those who are new to keeping chickens. They are also known for their mothering instincts and can make great broodies.
How many eggs do Chinese Silkies lay per year?
When it comes to egg laying, Chinese Silkie hens lay around 100-120 eggs per year, which averages out to about 2-3 eggs per week. Chinese Silkies lay Small eggs that are cream in colour. So, if you’re looking for a breed of chicken that will give you a fresh egg almost daily, Chinese Silkies are probably not the chickens you’re looking for.
When do Chinese Silkie hens start laying eggs?
It varies, but generally speaking, Chinese Silkies are ready to lay their eggs by 18-22 weeks of age. And despite what you may have heard, you don’t need Chinese Silkie roosters in order for Chinese Silkie hens to start laying eggs.
How long do Chinese Silkie chickens live?
On average, Chinese Silkie chickens have a lifespan ranging anywhere from 5-8 years. However, it’s worth noting that the lifespan of a chicken can depend on various factors such as diet, living conditions, and overall health. Chickens that are well cared for and kept in a safe, clean environment with a balanced diet can often live longer than those that are neglected or kept in poor conditions.
Conclusion: are Chinese Silkie chickens the next addition to your chicken coop?
Overall, Chinese Silkie chickens make a wonderful addition to any flock’s coop and are a great option for beginner backyard chicken keepers. With the right care and attention, Chinese Silkies will provide you with many years of enjoyment.
