Chicken Breed Spotlight: The 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 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 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 | Silkie |
| Adult size | Small breed, weighing 1.3-1.8kg |
| Eggs per year | 100-120 |
| Eggs per week | 2-3 |
| Silkie egg size | Small eggs |
| Silkie egg colour | cream eggs |
| Lifespan | 5-8 years |
| Suitable for backyard flocks? | Yes |
How big do Silkie chickens get?
Silkies are a Small-sized chicken breed, with adult hens weighing around 1.3-1.8kg.
What do Silkie chickens look like?
They are known for their soft and fluffy feathers that resemble fur. They come in a variety of colours, including black, blue, buff, grey, and white. Silkies are also distinctive for their black skin as well as their blue earlobes.
The personality and temperament of Silkie chickens
Silkies are known for their gentle and friendly nature, making them ideal pets. They are also known for their motherly instincts, often taking care of not just their own chicks but also the chicks of other breeds. Silkies are good foragers and generally calm, making them easy to handle and an excellent addition to any backyard flock.
How many eggs do Silkies lay per year?
When it comes to egg laying, Silkie hens lay around 100-120 eggs per year, which averages out to about 2-3 eggs per week. 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, Silkies are probably not the chickens you’re looking for.
When do Silkie hens start laying eggs?
It varies, but generally speaking, Silkies are ready to lay their eggs by 18-22 weeks of age. And despite what you may have heard, you don’t need Silkie roosters in order for Silkie hens to start laying eggs.
How long do Silkie chickens live?
On average, 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 Silkie chickens the next addition to your chicken coop?
Overall, 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, Silkies will provide you with many years of enjoyment.
