Not sure how to put this correctly so I don't get a verbal lashing so here we go... Why do people raise Silkies? I saw a few upclose the other day and they seem kinda ugly to me and don't seem to practical Is it more for hobby/breeding reasons? It can't be for meat or eggs. Right? This is my first year with chicken raising so maybe I just don't get it yet. My primary use for chickens are for the eggs. Please be nice, I just want to know what all the buzz is about.
Silkies have to be my favorite breed. They are easy to catch, friendly, docile, and like to be held. I raise them for pets and show. Plus, how can you not love this face? lol.
Many keep them because they are broody machines,they love setting on and hatching eggs not just their own but any eggs they are better then any incubator.....some people like their personalities......others love how they look.Its all a matter of personal opinion,I never cared for them until I gave in and bought one now I will never have a flock with out them.
I think they are the most beautiful chickens out there. I love how they look. I also love to breed and show them, and use them to hatch out eggs for me.
I first loved them because I wanted to raise pheasants and quail and anything else I found an egg from including some wild turkeys. Silkies are GREAT to hatch anything they are given or can steal and they are super moms too. Mine once tried to hatch a door knob!!!!! [It wasn't fertile] I think they are gorgeous and such wonderful pets, they love to have me for company, they are sweet, quiet, and very gentle. They come in lots of colors, and are just all around wonderful little "people" Sort of like having a soft fluffy cat that lays eggs! Is that a good enough reason?
I started with them for broodies and kept them for themselves and to improve my Sizzles. Once you get to know the darn little things - they kind of possess you. Wicked broodies sure, but it's like having comic relief running around the acreage all the time. You laugh - that CAN'Tbe REAL, but it is and it's hilarious.
Everyone has their own preferences. I don't care for leghorns & dislike orpingtons. Some folks dislike all featherlegs (and I agree that they can be hard to keep clean and in good condition); some folks want a chicken to look like a chicken, and anything unusual looking doesn't fit their cup of tea. Others want all their birds to be unique or unusual. BTW, silkie meat is considered a delicacy & an especially healthy food (almost a medicine) by several oriental cultures. Personally I don't eat chicken of any sort.
Well those Silkies do look very nice. I did not know about them being so broody. Learn something new everyday. I imagine once the standard breeds start looking same old same old to me I might get some Silkies. Thanks everyone and thanks for not throwing stuff at me.
everyone has their opinion... I love mine ... they are only 4 weeks old ... I can already tell their temperment is different than chicks I have raised in the past... And mine are just for pets... I think they are adorable... the remind me of little puppets... and I will be getting more next year
