With plumage that looks more like fur than feathers, the Silkie is instantly recognisable. Today it is one of the most sought-after breeds for families who want a pet hen rather than just a laying hen.
An ancient breed from Asia
The Silkie is a very old breed, probably from China. Marco Polo mentioned it as early as the 13th century, describing a strange "chicken with black skin and fur-like feathers". That is still its most surprising feature: under its light plumage, the Silkie has completely black skin, bones and membranes, a trait called melanism caused by special pigmentation.
Unique plumage – and a few precautions
Silkie feathers lack the tiny hooks (barbicels) that normally hold feathers together. This gives them their fluffy look and means Silkies cannot fly. The plumage protects them fairly well against cold, but it soaks up moisture: a wet Silkie takes a long time to dry and needs shelter quickly. In Switzerland, plan for a coop that is free of draughts and, above all, protected from rain and standing damp.
How many eggs does a Silkie lay?
Don't count on a Silkie to fill your egg basket. Laying is modest, around 100 to 150 small eggs a year, with cream or white shells. Silkies are also very broody, which reduces laying further, but it makes them excellent mothers that will even raise chicks of other breeds.
Temperament: the ultimate pet hen
This is where the Silkie really shines. Calm, docile and especially affectionate, it lets itself be picked up and stroked without stress, gets on very well with children and adapts easily to a small space. Many keepers describe it as a real pet rather than just a backyard hen.
Care tips
- Housing: a dry, draught-free shelter is essential – damp is this breed's biggest enemy.
- Space: Silkies cope well with small spaces (about 1 m² per hen). Because they cannot fly and their crest limits their vision, they are vulnerable to predators, so a secure, fully enclosed run is recommended.
- Hygiene: a regular dust bath helps them fight parasites, especially around their feathered feet.
- Food and water: as with any hen, a covered feeder and a clean drinker are essential.
The right equipment for Silkies
For a healthy coop suited to this moisture-sensitive breed, My Happy Hen offers:
- No-waste chicken feeder with weatherproof lid (15 kg) – keeps feed dry and off the ground
- No-leak 15 L nipple drinker – no open water, so bedding and feathers stay dry
- Fresh Nest Herbs – a calming herb blend for nesting boxes, ideal for broody Silkies
- Cosy, easy-to-clean nesting boxes
In summary
More pet than layer, the Silkie wins people over with its character and originality. New to chickens? Our starter kits combine a drinker and feeder in one order, or browse our full range of accessories to welcome your Silkies home.