Silkie thread!

[mahoney]

Are silkies as good at hatching eggs and mothering as I have been told?Do they go broody as young birds, or does it take two years ?

 

[averytds]

Iheartchicks<3

If it were me, I'd get rid of him and get a Silkie roo with your new Silkies. Then you and Shelly can be happy. Since you plan to free range, I'd look for smaller crests or trim them.


mahoney I've had pullets go broody. Have one broody right now whose about 8 months old. Most of ours have been great mothers. Have one broody right now, she's absolutely gorgeous but not too bright. Sometimes she sits on the eggs, sometimes she doesn't. Haven't decided whether or not I'll give her any chicks to raise. With her hap-hazzard setting, I don't know how she'll be as a mother.

 

[Iheartchicks<3:)]

Quote:
Okay then! Next question... do they usually carry them at feed stores? how will i trim it?

 

[averytds]

The feed stores around here have them in the assorted bantams bin. Look for black skin and 5 toed chicks. You shouldn't need to trim them at all. Hatchery Silkies don't usually get big crests and do fine free ranging. They're sold straight run. You'll likely get several roos to choose from that way.

Feed store Silkies

Their offspring.

 

[Iheartchicks<3:)]

But i only want 1 roo and 2 hens

thats a bummer.

 

[Iheartchicks<3:)]

Quote:
And and BTW.. i love the 2nd pic.. looks like a bunch of dust bunnies!

 

[averytds]

So order from a breeder or somewhere like http://www.mypetchicken.com/catalog/Bantams-c46.aspx where you can order them sexed.


If you go with a breeder, let them know you are looking for smaller crests and you're wanting a roo right up front. Shouldn't be too hard to find.

 

[Iheartchicks<3:)]

Oh alright, im just not sure.. my parents arent too into it.. They think getting them from a breeder is ridiculous! Now, i need to find a home for my roo!

 

[muddyhorse]

What area are you in? there are always breeders with birds looking for a pet home. not every chick we hatch makes it to the show pen. they may have incorrect toes or too pink of a comb. I have a PQ hen that I use as a broody, I take her eggs and give her others, apparently I missed one of her eggs and now we have a Pinky Two looking for a home.

 

[ThePolishPrincess]

Iheartchicks<3

:

Oh alright, im just not sure.. my parents arent too into it.. They think getting them from a breeder is ridiculous! Now, i need to find a home for my roo!

My parents did too.

I was trying to get my parents to buy via local-breeder for years but they felt that hatcheries were easier and quicker. Paying an extra $30 for a small order of 3 chicks was a total waste. Eventually, I convinced them that breeder was better and bought my first REAL Silkies at a show. If you want some birds that would do better free-range, I'm sure someone would be more than happy to sell you their pet quality culls.

Regarding your rooster problem, I've also had mean Silkie boys. The worst was actually rehomed. You may or may not find a real home for him, but I suggest letting the thought of getting rid of him seep into your mind. My flock is so much happier without mine. And my legs! Lol! Breeders can also sell you pre-sexed birds, as mentioned.​