Last Updated on September 6, 2023
Among all the chicken breeds, Silkies have got a remarkable position. And, in the list of all silkies, black silkie chickens have got a distinguished place. They are known for their exceptionally captivating black feathers and plumage.
No doubt, silkies have a range of types that are known for their colors, feathers, ornamental properties, etc. Nevertheless, within these breeds, black Silkie chickens are remembered for their tremendous features.
They have extremely beautiful black plumage, as the color “black” indicates. Not only this, but they have got a friendly nature which is why they are always preferred to other breeds. Plus, they have strong material instincts that distinguish them from many other birds.
Alongside, black silkies have much more to offer. Being a veterinarian, I would explain some of the features and properties of Black Silkies in this article.
Table of Contents
Origin of Black Silkies
The history of the black silkies does not clearly state the place of their origin. However, many documents associate them with China. The Chinese literature has mentioned these birds as “Wu gu Ji” which means ‘dark-boned chicken.’
It is considered an expensive trade commodity on the Silk Road of China. Hence, it has been named “Silkie” after that.
Whereas many historians believe that this breed originated in Asian countries, India and Indonesia. Nevertheless, literature has justified its presence in Asia with the evidence that Marco Polo beheld these chickens with him during his journey in Asia.
All this data is traced back to the 13th century. Marco Polo has reported this breed as a “furry chicken” in his writings. Later on, in 1598, an Italian naturalist and writer named Ulisse Aldrovandi published his first-ever comprehensive writing on Silkies.
According to him, Silkies were characterized as “wool-bearing chickens” and “breed clothed with hair similar to that of a black cat”. Over time, this breed was imported to North America via the maritime trade.
The Americans were fascinated by its charm, and it was accepted by the American Poultry Association in 1874. Today, it is regarded as one of the best chicken breeds.
Physical Traits of Black Silkies
Black has known to be the favorite color of all few and sundry. Nature, too, has selected this color for Silkies. The black silkies have black plumage throughout their bodies. This is further beautified by the presence of turquoise ear lobes and a slate blue beak.
Additionally, mulberry color is common to their comb, face, and wattles. Because of their fluffy plumage, they are also named “fluff balls”. Moreover, they love sitting on their owner’s lap and hence are also called “lapdogs.”
They have a distinguishing feather i.e., five toes. This is one of the differentiating features of black silkies. Along with crests, they have feet covered with fur. Thus, they are covered in soft, fluffy feathers from head to toe.
The black silkies possess not only black skin but also black meat. This dark color is a result of a hyperpigmentation phenomenon called fibromelanosis. The skin pigment “melanin” is responsible for blackened skin and meat.
Adding more, the feathers of the black silkies lack barbicels, forming a disordered yet gorgeous fluff of feathers. While it looks pleasing, the absence of barbicels refrains silkies from flying. Due to this, they are more prone to predators and attackers.
The size is usually small, and they are termed bantams. However, large fowls are also a part of this breed. On average, the male weighs 600 g and the female weighs 500 g.
The breed is broody and has co-instinctive motherly nature. One wonderful trait is that the hens help hatch and raise the chicks of turkeys, pheasants, and even ducks. Though broodiness comes once a year, they are not a prolific egg layer.
This is because the hens lay eggs lesser than the normal chickens. So, you can get 120 eggs per year only. The color of the eggs can range from white to cream or tinted.
The specified time for laying the eggs is late December or early January. Besides, the age for egg-laying arrives earlier than in other chicken breeds.
The temperament of Black Silkies
This breed is very docile and friendly. They can be tamed easily as compared to other breeds. Plus, they are quite calm and contented kind of birds.
They love and prefer being loved. Due to this, they find pleasure in sitting on their owner’s lap. In addition, they are very kind towards people of every age, especially children.
Their soft nature is one of the aspects that can make them more prone to bullying by other harsh breeds. So, experts recommend either keeping them away or with other docile chicken breeds.
Health Status of Black Silkie Chickens
The black silkies generally are healthy. Nonetheless, they are at risk of falling prey to Marek’s disease. They have a strong natural immunity but vaccination is always encouraged.
Their fluffy feathering can house mites and lice. So, you need to look keenly after their feather hygiene. Further, their fluff needs regular trimming to clear their vision.
They are usually cold-tolerant but must not get wet. This is because their feathers are very absorbent and do not get dry easily. Thus, they can die of hypothermia.
Their life span can extend from 7-9 years if they are kept with utmost care and concern.
Final Thoughts
Being a veterinarian, I would suggest that chicken fanciers and poultry owners go for Black Silkies. This breed is very captivating with an affectionate nature. Not only this, but other features are quite convincing to keep them as an adornment.
You can also keep them in your birdhouses if you are interested in the bird business. They can also act as a promising source of income for you.
With all this, always try to give your best in caring for them and providing them comfort at all costs.
