Silkie Combs

[Byrdj]

Since a single comb is recessive to a walnut comb which is a combination of a pea and rose comb, why are there so many single combed Silkies out there? Does it keep re-occuring because it could be hidden as recessive and not expressed until future generations?
How did the single comb gene get into the breed?

 

[tiki244]

Well in a nut shell (or walnut shell)

I was told that cochins were used to partially create the silkie breed amongst other chickens. And that the single comb will keep showing up and a person must be diligent to just pick the ones that dont have that comb if they want to breed to the standard. So I am no authority, this is just what I was told by someone else.

eta: yes I think its a hidden unexpressed reccessive gene many times

 

[Byrdj]

That makes sense. Cochins would help produce thicker feathering. Also, it certainly wouldn't hurt in making them broody. I just hope the rooster I keep for breeding doesn't carry a recessive single comb gene. I got my silkie chicks from Ideal Hatchery. They look great otherwise and have nice full top not feathering.

 

[tiki244]

I got a little black roo silkie with a single comb and he is just a sweetheart

 

[Year of the Rooster]

Quote:
You may never know unless you actually breed him. I'm hoping mine doesn't have it too, since I received a single combed rooster with him.