Breed?

[RoostersAreAwesome]

Really? that's good to know. You're the first person ever to tell me that. Every time I see someone talking about satins, they're a mix. So is the smooth feathering a genetic hiccup that can be bred for, a multi generation cross or how does that work if you don't mind explaining?

Here is my 2 cents. I copied and pasted this from one of my posts where someone had asked me about it.
"Satins" are not a true breed YET, but many breeders have been working on them for many generations of birds (over 20 in some cases), the goal being to breed a bird that has all the silkie features, 5 toes, dark skin, walnut comb, feathered legs, but then have the smooth feathering. Bantam Cochins are usually what is used to introduce the smooth feathers. Depending on where you source your birds, you can find Satins that are well over 90% silkie. Most people throw the term around loosely and will call any bird that is half silkie with smooth feathers a Satin, thought technically this is incorrect.

@LadiesAndJane’s explanation is perfect.

 

[LadiesAndJane]

Here is good example of a splash satin rooster. Note the correct comb and dark skin. He is a seventh generation bird.

 

[nuthatched]

Here is my 2 cents. I copied and pasted this from one of my posts where someone had asked me about it.
"Satins" are not a true breed YET, but many breeders have been working on them for many generations of birds (over 20 in some cases), the goal being to breed a bird that has all the silkie features, 5 toes, dark skin, walnut comb, feathered legs, but then have the smooth feathering. Bantam Cochins are usually what is used to introduce the smooth feathers. Depending on where you source your birds, you can find Satins that are well over 90% silkie. Most people throw the term around loosely and will call any bird that is half silkie with smooth feathers a Satin, thought technically this is incorrect.

Thanks! So a satin is only a true Satin if it is Silkie in everything except feathers?

 

[LadiesAndJane]

Thanks! So a satin is only a true Satin if it is Silkie in everything except feathers?

Yes!
I have several half silkies, that of course have smooth feathers. I usually refer to them as silkie crosses or silkie hybrids.