Silkies :]

[ilovemypeeps3]

Hello. I recently purchased 3 black silkie hens. I know absolutely nothing about the breed except they have 5 toes. They look a little brown. Is that normal? If not what can i do to get them show quality? Their wings are like beat up looking also. How long will it take for the feathers to look better? cause fair is in 2 months!

I buy dumor layer feed is that good?

 

[Kanchii]

Show quality depends on the bird and its lineage. IF you buy from someone who doesnt breed for show quality birds its likely your birds aren't show quality. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news!

All you can do to get them to the best condition possible is keep them inside (sunlight bleaches black chickens, may cause the brown you see, or makes white chickens yellow) dont give them corn, that will add to the browness, and keep them on shavings to help their feet feathers. You can also give them a bath the day before the show so that they are clean. But besides that, theres nothing you can do to make a chicken show quality.

 

[eggcochin_freak5]

they cant roost...so you might want to fix them a little box in the corner or something

 

[BamaChicken]

Depending on age they could be going through a molt which will make a show bird look like a 5 dollar silkie. Give them special protien snacks to get their feathers back in shape.