Silkie Chicks Missing Toes

[CrazyCrttr75]

I understand this. That is why, in my original response to the OP, I said "...it could be a genetics thing with one of your girls". My response that you quoted was to a dif person that said specifically "But there are many 3 toed breeds ". Silkies are a breed that normally has 5 toes, not counting on any birth defects that any one particular bird may have. I understand genetics happen.

 

[Egg Snatcher]

I understand this. That is why, in my original response to the OP, I said "...it could be a genetics thing with one of your girls". My response that you quoted was to a dif person that said specifically "But there are many 3 toed breeds ". Silkies are a breed that normally has 5 toes, not counting on any birth defects that any one particular bird may have. I understand genetics happen.

Sorry for the misunderstanding. Chickens are still lovely even if they downt have enough toes or have to many. I would like to get your advice. I have some chicks with this deformation, should a keep them for eggs and to hatch out chicks, or sell them as pet chickens. I was going to keep them for eggs and broody. Or can you sell them? I also have 2 Cornish cross hens, they lay eggs and I have 2 babies from them, do they make big enough Hen Saddles for meat birds?

 

[Silkie2005]

It's genetics, it is the silkie breeder's bane! Can't breed it out of them as it is a recessive trait so will always come back. Doesn't affect them all all, I've got one at the moment who has 6 toes on each foot instead of the average 5. If you are trying to show them, then I would suggest you sell them on because it is a disqualifying feature, but if you want them just as pets then they are absolutely fine and will turn out just as cute and friendly as a silkie with the correct amount would.