Breeds
» Bantams » Sultans
 Sultans
are fancy ornamental chickens and one of the more unique
breeds of poultry. They originated from southeast Europe
and became known in Turkey as Seral-Taook ("fowl of the
sultan"). Sultans were, most likely because of their appearance,
the preferred breed of Turkish rulers. Sultans were imported
to England from Istanbul in 1854. The bantam form was
bred in the U.S. from Standard sized Sultans. The American
Poultry Association recognizes white Sultans in the Miscellaneous
class. Currently there are no other known colors or patterns.
Sultans are bred for exhibition and make poor layers
or meat birds. They lay an average of 70 small white eggs
a year. They hardly get broody and are not known for their
mothering skills.
Sultans are calm, non-aggressive, private birds. They
make poor foragers and are better suited for confinement
than most breeds. Sultans make good pets. The main reason
to have this breed is for their gorgeous appearance.
Sultans have V-shaped combs. Wattles and earlobes are
small and tend to be hidden by the facial feathering.
Sultans have feathered legs, a full crest, muff and beard,
vulture hocks (Vulture hocks are long stiff feathers protruding
down and back from the hock joint.) and 5 toes. They have
white skin. They are not very hardy. Sultans can fly higher
than 6 feet so wing clipping may be needed to keep them
grounded.
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