My silkie chick has a 3rd leg!

[Countrygirl92]

Hi I just got my chicks from family farm and home and I noticed one of my chicks has a 3rd leg on its leg is it genetic? If I need her or him would the chicks turn out like that

 

[PippinTheChicken]

That is weird! Maybe it was in a twin egg and absorbed the twin.
@Cecisflock had a chicken with 4 legs

 

[Countrygirl92]

Is it heredity? Will the babies get it?

 

[PippinTheChicken]

Is it heredity? Will the babies get it?

I don't think so.

 

[nuthatched]

Is it heredity? Will the babies get it?

Could be, I wouldn't use this one for breeding, personally.

 

[Cecisflock]

That is weird! Maybe it was in a twin egg and absorbed the twin.
@Cecisflock had a chicken with 4 legs

Hello! Thanks for the tag! Yes, my girl Clover had 4 legs. Her story is in my sig. It is scientifically called Polymelia. It is not super studied but I believe it is genetic. It is NOT an absorbed twin contrary to popular belief. They are special birds for sure! Clover had her extra legs amputated by an avian vet.

 

[GingerRose]

Thank you for sharing your chicks photo. This is good information for me, for sure...

 

[Arelwood]

That's so crazy...and also, it's cute?

 

[HappyClucker7]

I would probably not use this chick for breeding in case it is hereditary.

 

[Cecisflock]

Thank you for sharing your chicks photo. This is good information for me, for sure...

You are so welcome! Her death was completely unrelated to her polymelia so I expect your babe will be just fine!