I am purchasing a silkie for a pet for a young girl.I have questions about them and while I can find loads of answers about broodiness and qualities needed for show, Im having a hard time finding answers to more basic questions.
I would like to know:
Do they need supplemental heat in the winter or do those unique feathers offer enough protection? She will be housed in a small coop with 4 other hens( 3 buff orps 1 jersey giant)
What are their summer requirements?
I understand they need their face and butts trimmed to see and for sanitary reasons.
How often does this need to happen and what other hygiene type maintenance do they need?
Do they have special housing requirements as far as bedding is concerned?
What health issues are they prone to that I need to be proactive for?
Are there any special dietary needs? (Eg my jersry giant needs triple the calcium that my buffs do or she lays a very thin shelled egg)
What other info regarding these birds do I need that I didnt think to ask or dont know about to keep this bird healthy and happy.
This bird is going to be a pet for the daughter of a friend of mine. This young girl has had a rough couple of years and I need to make sure that her bird thrives so she can enjoy her new friend without stress or trauma.
Thank you for your help
I would like to know:
Do they need supplemental heat in the winter or do those unique feathers offer enough protection? She will be housed in a small coop with 4 other hens( 3 buff orps 1 jersey giant)
What are their summer requirements?
I understand they need their face and butts trimmed to see and for sanitary reasons.
How often does this need to happen and what other hygiene type maintenance do they need?
Do they have special housing requirements as far as bedding is concerned?
What health issues are they prone to that I need to be proactive for?
Are there any special dietary needs? (Eg my jersry giant needs triple the calcium that my buffs do or she lays a very thin shelled egg)
What other info regarding these birds do I need that I didnt think to ask or dont know about to keep this bird healthy and happy.
This bird is going to be a pet for the daughter of a friend of mine. This young girl has had a rough couple of years and I need to make sure that her bird thrives so she can enjoy her new friend without stress or trauma.
Thank you for your help