Appenzeller hens, specifically the Appenzeller Spitzhauben, are a fascinating breed with a rich history.

Key Features:

Origin:
They originate from the Appenzell region of Switzerland.

Distinctive Appearance:
They are known for their distinctive forward-pointing crest ("Spitzhauben" means "pointed bonnet").
They have a V-shaped comb.
They come in various spangled colour patterns, such as silver-spangled and gold-spangled.

Temperament:
They are active, alert, and excellent foragers.
They prefer free-range environments and are known to enjoy roosting in trees.
They can be somewhat flighty.

Egg Production:
They are good layers of white eggs.
They can lay a good amount of eggs per year.

Hardiness:
They are well-suited to mountainous regions and are known for their hardiness.
Their small wattles and combs make them less susceptible to frostbite.

Special Considerations:
They are excellent fliers, so secure fencing is essential.
They thrive in free range situations.

In essence:

Appenzeller hens are a lively and attractive breed that excels in free-range environments. They are a good choice for those seeking active foragers and reliable layers.

Please note that all Poultry orders are click and collect only, not available for delivery, when going through to the checkout please make sure you select Click and collect as the option.

Araucana hens are famous for their unique blue eggs and distinctive appearance.

Key Features:

Blue Eggs:
Their most notable trait is their ability to lay blue or turquoise eggs.
This is due to a genetic mutation that deposits oocyan pigment in the eggshell.

Distinctive Appearance:
They often have tufts of feathers (ear tufts) on the sides of their heads, though not all Araucanas have them.  
They are also known for lacking a tail (rumpless), though this is another trait that is not always present.  
They have a pea comb.  
Temperament:
They can be somewhat flighty and independent.  
They are not generally known for being overly cuddly.
They are known to be alert.  

Egg Production:
They are moderate layers of blue eggs.
They are not known to be prolific layers.

Origin:
They originated in Chile.  
They are named after the Araucanian people of Chile.

Hardiness:
They are relatively hardy birds.
They are good foragers.  

Special Considerations:
The presence of ear tufts and the rumpless trait are due to complex genetics, and these traits can cause issues with chicks.  
They are not known to be very broody.
Due to the genetics of the breed, it is very important to get birds from a reputable breeder.
In essence:

Araucana hens are a fascinating breed that is prized for their unique blue eggs and distinctive appearance. They are a good choice for those seeking something different in their back garden flock.

Please note that all Poultry orders are click and collect only, not available for delivery, when going through to the checkout please make sure you select Click and collect as the option.

Bielefelder hens are a relatively recent breed known for their excellent egg production and friendly temperament.

Key Features:

Autosexing Breed:
They are an autosexing breed, meaning chicks can be sexed at hatching based on their down colour.  

Excellent Egg Production:
They are known for their high egg production of large, brown eggs.  
They are very reliable layers.

Friendly Temperament:
They are known for their calm, docile, and friendly nature.  
They make good backyard chickens and are easy to handle.  

Appearance:
They have a distinctive cuckoo pattern, with hens having a more pronounced pattern than roosters.  
They have a medium to large build.
They have a single comb.  

Origin:
They originated in Bielefeld, Germany, in the 1970s.  

Hardiness:
They are hardy and adaptable to various climates.  
They are good foragers.  

Special Considerations:
They are a newer breed, so they may be less common than some other breeds.
They are not known to be overly broody.  

In essence:

Bielefelder hens are a great choice for those seeking a productive, friendly, and autosexing breed.

Please note that all Poultry orders are click and collect only, not available for delivery, when going through to the checkout please make sure you select Click and collect as the option.

Barnevelder hens are a popular breed known for their beautiful dark brown eggs and docile temperament.

Key Features:

Distinctive Eggs:
They are famous for laying rich, dark brown eggs, which are highly prized.

Temperament:
Known for their docile, calm, and friendly nature.
They are easy to handle and make good back garden chickens.
They are known to be quiet.

Appearance:
They have a medium-sized, sturdy build.
They are known for their double-laced pattern, especially the dark brown double laced.
They have a single comb.

Origin:
They originated in the Barneveld region of the Netherlands.

Egg Production:
They are reliable layers of dark brown eggs.
They lay a good amount of eggs.

Hardiness:
They are relatively hardy and adaptable to various climates.
They are good foragers.

Special Considerations:
They are not known to be overly broody.
They do well in free range situations.

In essence:

Barnevelder hens are a great choice for those seeking a reliable, friendly, and visually appealing breed that produces distinctive dark brown eggs.

Please note that all Poultry orders are click and collect only, not available for delivery, when going through to the checkout please make sure you select Click and collect as the option.

Brahma hens are known for their impressive size, gentle temperament, and cold-hardiness.

Key Features:

Large Size:
They are one of the largest chicken breeds, with hens being substantial birds.
Their size is a defining characteristic.
Feathered Legs and Feet:
They have heavily feathered legs and feet, adding to their impressive appearance.
Gentle Temperament:
Known for their docile, calm, and friendly nature.
They are excellent for back garden flocks and make good pets.
They are known to be quiet birds.

Cold-Hardy:
Their dense feathering and large size make them well-suited to cold climates.
They are a popular choice in regions with harsh winters.

Egg Production:
They lay a moderate amount of large, brown eggs.
They are not prolific layers, but they provide a consistent supply, especially during the winter months.

Origin:
They originated in the United States, developed from birds imported from Asia.

Appearance:
They have a broad, deep body and a pea comb.
They come in various colours, including light, dark, and buff.

Special Considerations:
Their large size requires ample space.
Their feathered legs and feet can become muddy, so clean and dry conditions are essential.
They are slow growers.

In essence:

Brahma hens are a majestic and gentle breed that offers a combination of impressive size, cold-hardiness, and a calm demeanor. They are a good choice for those seeking large, friendly chickens.

Please note that all Poultry orders are click and collect only, not available for delivery, when going through to the checkout please make sure you select Click and collect as the option.

Ayam Cemani hens are truly unique and captivating birds, known for their striking all-black appearance.

Key Features:

Completely Black (Fibromelanosis):
Their most defining trait is their hyperpigmentation, known as fibromelanosis.
This genetic condition causes them to be black from their feathers, skin, beak, comb, wattles, and even internal organs.

Origin:
They originate from the island of Java, Indonesia.
They have a long history and were traditionally considered a mystical and sacred breed.

Appearance:
They have a sleek, medium-sized build.
Their feathers have a beautiful iridescent sheen.

Temperament:
They can be somewhat flighty and wary, especially if not handled regularly.
They are generally not considered to be overly aggressive.
They are known to be intelligent.

Egg Production:
They lay a moderate amount of cream or slightly pink-tinted eggs.
They are not prolific layers.
Egg production can be sporadic.

Special Considerations:
They are relatively rare and can be expensive.
They are well suited to warmer climates.
Due to their rarity, and the genetic condition they carry, they are very popular with breeders.

Unique Traits:
Their all-black appearance is truly unique and sets them apart from all other chicken breeds.
They have a very striking look.

In essence:

Ayam Cemani hens are a fascinating and unusual breed that appeals to those seeking a unique and exotic addition to their flock.

Please note that all Poultry orders are click and collect only, not available for delivery, when going through to the checkout please make sure you select Click and collect as the option.

Cochin hens are known for their striking appearance and gentle nature.

Key Features:

Distinctive Appearance:
They are large, fluffy birds with abundant, soft feathering that extends down their legs and feet.  
Their round, cushiony shape and feathered legs give them a unique and endearing look.  
They come in a variety of colors, including buff, black, white, and blue.  

Temperament:
Known for their exceptionally docile, calm, and friendly temperament.  
They are very gentle and easy to handle, making them excellent pets, especially for children.
They tend to be quiet and non-aggressive.  

Egg Production:
They are moderate layers of medium-sized, brown or tinted eggs.  
They are not prolific layers, but they provide a steady supply of eggs.  
They are known to be very broody, making them excellent mothers.  

Origin:
They originated in China and were imported to the West in the mid-19th century.  
They quickly became popular for their ornamental value and gentle nature.
 
Hardiness:
They are very hardy and can tolerate cold weather well due to their dense feathering.  
However, their feathered feet can become problematic in very wet or muddy conditions.  

Special Considerations:
Their feathered legs and feet require clean and dry conditions to prevent problems.  
They are not active foragers and prefer confinement.
They are large and heavy, so they are not good fliers.  

In essence:

Cochin hens are a charming and gentle breed that makes a wonderful addition to any back garden flock, particularly for those seeking docile, family-friendly birds.

Please note that all Poultry orders are click and collect only, not available for delivery, when going through to the checkout please make sure you select Click and collect as the option.

Large Fowl (LF) Faverolle hens are a delightful dual-purpose breed known for their friendly temperament and unique appearance.

Key Features:

Distinctive Appearance:
They have a fluffy, soft plumage, giving them a rounded, cuddly appearance.  
They possess a muff and beard, adding to their charming look.  
They have five toes, a trait they share with Houdans and Silkies.  
Salmon is a very popular colour, but they come in other varieties as well.

Temperament:
Known for their exceptionally docile, gentle, and friendly nature.  
They are excellent pets, particularly for families with children.  
They are calm and easy to handle, even for beginners.  

Egg Production:
They are good layers of medium-sized, tinted or cream-coloured eggs.  
They are a reliable layer of eggs.  
They can be broody, but not overly so.  

Origin:
They originated in the village of Faverolles, France.
They were developed as a dual purpose breed.  

Hardiness:
They are relatively hardy and can tolerate cold weather well.  
However, their feathered feet and facial feathering can be susceptible to mud and wet conditions.


Special Considerations:
Their facial feathering can get dirty, so clean and dry conditions are essential.
They are not strong fliers.
They are great with children.  

In essence:

LF Faverolle hens are a wonderful choice for back garden chicken keepers seeking a friendly, productive, and visually appealing breed.

Please note that all Poultry orders are click and collect only, not available for delivery, when going through to the checkout please make sure you select Click and collect as the option.

Faverolle bantams are charming, fluffy, and friendly chickens that bring a unique touch to any back garden flock.

Key Features:

Distinctive Appearance:
They have a fluffy, soft plumage, giving them a rounded appearance.
They possess a muff and beard, adding to their endearing look.
They have five toes, a trait they share with Silkies and Houdans.
They come in various colors, with salmon being a popular variety.

Temperament:
Known for their docile, gentle, and friendly nature.
They are excellent pets, especially for families with children.
They are calm and easy to handle.

Egg Production:
They lay a moderate amount of small, tinted or cream-coloured eggs.
They are not prolific layers, but they provide a consistent supply of eggs.
They can go broody.

Origin:
They are a bantam version of the standard-sized Faverolles, which originated in France.

Hardiness:
They are relatively hardy, but their feathered feet and muffs can become problematic in very wet or muddy conditions.
They handle cold well.

Special Considerations:
Their facial feathering can get dirty, so clean and dry conditions are essential.
They are not strong fliers.
They are very good with children.

In essence:

Faverolle bantams are delightful birds that combine a charming appearance with a gentle temperament, making them a popular choice for back garden poultry enthusiasts.

Please note that all Poultry orders are click and collect only, not available for delivery, when going through to the checkout please make sure you select Click and collect as the option.

Houdan hens are a very interesting and unique breed of chicken.

Key Features:

Distinctive Appearance:
They have a very distinctive crest, muff, and beard.
They possess a unique V-shaped comb (in the U.S.) or "butterfly" comb (in Europe).
They have five toes, unlike most chicken breeds.
Common colour varieties include mottled (black with white spots) and white.

Origin:
They originate from Houdan, France.
They are an old French breed.

Temperament:
Generally docile and gentle.
They tend to enjoy human company.
They prefer a free-range environment.

Egg Production:
They lay a respectable number of white eggs.
Egg production is considered to be moderate.
They can lay around 140-240 eggs per year, depending on the source.

Other Characteristics:
They were historically a dual-purpose breed (meat and eggs).
Today, they are often kept for ornamental purposes or showing.
They can go broody, but because of their weight, they are not always the best setters.

Special Considerations:
Their crest and facial feathering can get wet or dirty, so they may require special feeders and waterers.
They do best in a free range situation.

In essence, Houdan hens are a beautiful and unique breed with a rich history. They are a good choice for those seeking a docile and interesting addition to their back garden flock.

Please note that all Poultry orders are click and collect only, not available for delivery, when going through to the checkout please make sure you select Click and collect as the option.

Lakenvelder hens are a striking and active breed with a fascinating history.

Key Features:

Distinctive Appearance:
They are known for their striking black and white plumage, with a white body and black neck and tail.
This "belted" pattern is their most recognizable feature.
Active and Alert:
Lakenvelders are active and inquisitive birds, known for their foraging abilities.
They tend to be flighty, so secure fencing is important.

Egg Production:
They are good layers of white or tinted eggs.
They are primarily kept for egg production.

Temperament:
They can be somewhat nervous and prefer free-range environments.
They are not generally known for being cuddly or docile.

Hardiness:
They are relatively hardy birds, but they thrive in environments where they can forage and roam.

Historical Background:
Their origins are debated, with connections to both the Netherlands and Germany.
They are considered a heritage breed.

Special Considerations:
They are great flyers, so good fencing is needed.
They are not known to be broody.

In essence:

Lakenvelder hens are an excellent choice for those seeking active, productive layers with a unique appearance. They are best suited for free-range environments where they can express their natural foraging behaviors.

Please note that all Poultry orders are click and collect only, not available for delivery, when going through to the checkout please make sure you select Click and collect as the option.

Orpington hens are renowned for their gentle disposition and dual-purpose qualities.

Key Features:

Temperament:
Extremely docile, calm, and friendly.
Known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them excellent pets.
They are very easy to handle.

Egg Production:
Good layers of brown eggs.
Typically lay around 175-200 eggs per year.
They are known to lay well through the winter.

Appearance:
Large, heavy-bodied birds with a broad, deep chest.
Soft, fluffy feathering.
Come in a variety of colours, including buff, blue, black, and white.
They have a single comb.

Hardiness:
Very hardy and well-suited to cold climates due to their dense feathering.
Adaptable to various environments.

Other Traits:
Not known for being active foragers.
They are known to go broody.
They are a heavy breed.

In essence:

Orpington hens are a wonderful choice for back garden chicken keepers seeking gentle, reliable, and productive birds.

Please note that all Poultry orders are click and collect only, not available for delivery, when going through to the checkout please make sure you select Click and collect as the option.

Pekin bantam hens are popular back garden birds known for their adorable appearance and gentle nature.

Key Features:

Small Size:
They are true bantams, meaning they have no large fowl counterpart.
They are very small and fluffy.

Feathering:
They have abundant, soft, and fluffy feathering, which makes them appear even rounder.
Their feathers often cover their legs and feet, giving them a "booted" appearance.

Temperament:
Known for their docile, friendly, and calm temperament.
They are excellent pets, especially for children.
They generally handle confinement well.

Egg Production:
They are moderate layers of small cream or tinted eggs.
Expect around 80-120 eggs per year.
They are known to be broody hens.

Appearance:
Round, compact body shape.
Short, upright tail.
They come in a wide variety of colours and patterns.

Hardiness:
While they can tolerate cold, their feathered feet can become problematic in very wet or muddy conditions.
They are not strong fliers.

Special Considerations:
Their feathered feet and legs can get muddy, so a clean and dry coop and run are essential.
Due to their small size, they are vulnerable to predators.

In essence:

Pekin bantam hens are charming, gentle, and easy to handle, making them a delightful addition to any back garden flock.

Please note that all Poultry orders are click and collect only, not available for delivery, when going through to the checkout please make sure you select Click and collect as the option.

Silkie hens are truly unique and beloved for their distinctive features and gentle nature.

Distinctive Features:

Silky Feathers:
Their most notable trait is their fluffy, fur-like plumage, which feels remarkably soft.
This is due to a genetic mutation that prevents their feathers from having functional barbicels.
Black Skin and Bones:
Silkies have dark bluish-black skin, bones, and even meat.
Five Toes:
Unlike most chickens, Silkies have five toes on each foot.
Walnut Comb and Blue Earlobes:
They possess a small walnut comb and distinct turquoise-blue earlobes.
Crested Head:
Many Silkies have a prominent "pom-pom" crest on their heads.
Temperament and Behavior:

Docile and Friendly:
Silkies are known for their exceptionally calm and gentle temperament.
They make excellent pets, especially for children.

Broodiness:
Silkie hens are known for being very broody, meaning they readily sit on eggs and make excellent mothers.
This makes them very useful for people that want to hatch eggs.

Egg Production:
Moderate Layers:
They lay a moderate amount of small, cream-colored eggs.
Expect around 100-150 eggs per year.
Special Considerations:

Vulnerability to Wet Weather:
Their unique feathers are not waterproof, so they need protection from rain and dampness.

Predator Awareness:
Because they are not good fliers, they are more suseptable to predators.
Gentle Flock Mates:
Due to their gentle nature, they do best in flocks with other docile breeds.

In summary:
Silkie hens are charming and unique birds that are prized for their soft feathers, gentle temperament, and broodiness.

Please note that all Poultry orders are click and collect only, not available for delivery, when going through to the checkout please make sure you select Click and collect as the option.

Ornamental Breed:
Primarily kept for their beautiful, laced plumage.
They are a "true bantam," meaning there's no large-fowl counterpart.

Distinctive Plumage:
Known for their striking, precisely laced feathers in gold or silver.
Both hens and roosters have this elaborate lacing.

Small Size:
They are bantams, so they are very small chickens.
Hens weigh around 20 ounces.

Egg Production:
They are not prolific layers.
Expect around 50 to 80 small, white eggs per year.
Hens are not known for being broody.

Temperament:
Active and curious.
Can be easily tamed with handling.
They can be flighty.

Please note that all Poultry orders are click and collect only, not available for delivery, when going through to the checkout please make sure you select Click and collect as the option.

Hybrid Origin:
They are a crossbreed, primarily a mix of Silkie and Transylvanian Naked Neck chickens.
This combination results in their unique appearance.

Distinctive Appearance:
They possess the fluffy, "silky" feathers of Silkie chickens.
They also have the characteristic naked neck of the Transylvanian Naked Neck.
Often, they have a prominent "pom-pom" crest on their heads.

Temperament:
Generally docile and friendly, similar to Silkies.
They often make excellent pets.

Egg Production:
They typically lay a moderate amount of eggs, around 100-150 medium-sized cream or white eggs per year.
They can also be known to be broody.

Special Considerations:
Their Silkie heritage means they require protection from wet weather, as their feathers are not waterproof.
Due to being a cross breed, they are generally considered to be more hardy than pure silkies.
They can be known to try and fly, so secure runs are advisable.

Unique Traits:
They combine the best of both parent breeds, resulting in a unique and eye-catching appearance.
They have become very popular due to their novel look.

Please note that all Poultry orders are click and collect only, not available for delivery, when going through to the checkout please make sure you select Click and collect as the option.

Swedish Flower Hens are a beautiful and productive heritage breed with a charming backstory.

Origin:
They are a landrace breed from Sweden, meaning they developed naturally through adaptation to their environment.
Traditionally kept in small farms across Sweden.

Appearance:
Known for their varied and colourful plumage, with each bird having a unique pattern.
Often display a "flowery" pattern, hence their name.
They have a medium-sized build.

Temperament:
Docile and friendly, making them good for back garden flocks.
Known for their foraging abilities.
They are very alert.

Egg Production:
Good layers of medium-sized cream or tinted eggs.
They generally lay around 150-250 eggs per year.
They can be broody.

Hardiness:
Very hardy and well-suited to cold climates.
Their landrace origins contribute to their resilience.

Foraging:
They are excellent foragers.
This makes them ideal for free-range environments.

Unique Features:
Their genetic diversity results in a wide range of colours and patterns.
They are a living piece of Swedish agricultural history.

Please note that all Poultry orders are click and collect only, not available for delivery, when going through to the checkout please make sure you select Click and collect as the option.

The Light Sussex hen is a popular and versatile breed with a rich history.

Origins and Purpose:

British Breed: Originates from the county of Sussex in England.

Historical Significance: One of the oldest British chicken breeds, historically important for table poultry.

Appearance:
Distinctive Colouring: White body with black tail and black markings on the neck hackles and wing tips.
Build: Graceful, with a long, broad back and a rectangular build.
Comb: Single red comb.
Eyes: Orange in Light varieties.
Legs and Skin: White.

Temperament and Behavior:
Docile and Friendly: Known for their calm and gentle temperament.
Good Foragers: Enjoy free-ranging and foraging for food.
Adaptable: Can thrive in both free-range and confined spaces.

Egg Production:

Good Layers: Lay a good number of tinted or cream-coloured eggs.
Egg Quantity: Expect around 180-250 eggs per year, and some hybrid strains can produce even more.
Utility strains are known for higher egg production.

Other Characteristics:
Hardy: Well-suited to various climates.
Popular for Showing: Also exhibited in poultry shows.
Variations: It is important to know that there are pure bred light sussex, and hybrid light sussex. Hybrid versions are often bred for higher egg production.

In summary, the Light Sussex hen is a reliable, dual-purpose breed that's well-suited for back garden poultry keepers.

Please note that all Poultry orders are click and collect only, not available for delivery, when going through to the checkout please make sure you select Click and collect as the option.

The Vorwerk hen is a distinctive and practical breed.
Origin:
Developed in Germany around 1900 by Oskar Vorwerk.
Bred as a dual-purpose utility bird.

Appearance:
Striking plumage: a deep buff body with black head, neck, and tail.
Medium-sized build.
Single red comb.
Slate-blue legs.

Temperament:
Alert and active, but not overly flighty.
Good foragers.
Can be tamed with handling.

Egg Production:
Good layers of cream-colored eggs.
Approximately 170 eggs per year.

Hardiness:
Hardy and adaptable to various climates.
Economical eaters.


Special considerations:
They are good flyers, so suitable fencing is needed.
The colour of the plumage can be bleached by to much sun exposure.
Unique traits:
The distinctive colour pattern.
Good foraging abilities.

Please note that all Poultry orders are click and collect only, not available for delivery, when going through to the checkout please make sure you select Click and collect as the option.

Wyandotte hens are a popular choice for back garden chicken keepers, and for good reason

Key Features:

Temperament:
Known for their docile, calm, and friendly nature.  
They tend to be good with children.
Generally, they are not overly flighty.  

Egg Production:
Reliable layers of brown eggs.  
Typically lay around 150-200 eggs per year.
They tend to lay fairly well through the winter.

Appearance:
They have a rounded, heavy build.
Distinctive rose comb, which is advantageous in cold climates as it's less prone to frostbite.  
Come in a wide variety of beautiful colour patterns, including silver-laced, golden-laced, and many others.  

Hardiness:
Very cold-hardy due to their dense feathering and rose comb.  
Adaptable to various climates.  

Other Traits:
They are not known for being strong flyers.  
Wyandotte hens can be broody, and make good mothers.  
They are a heritage breed.  

In essence:

Wyandotte hens are a well-rounded breed that offers a combination of beauty, practicality, and a friendly temperament.

Please note that all Poultry orders are click and collect only, not available for delivery, when going through to the checkout please make sure you select Click and collect as the option.

The Barbu d'Anvers, also known as the Antwerp Belgian, is a charming and distinctive breed of bantam chicken originating from Belgium.

Key Features:

True Bantam:
This means they have no full-sized counterpart.

Distinctive Appearance:
They are renowned for their "barbu" (bearded) appearance, with a profuse beard of feathers covering their earlobes.
They have a compact body, a prominent, rounded breast, and an upward-arching tail.
They possess a small rose comb and typically have small or non-existent wattles.
Clean legs, meaning they have no feathers on their legs.

Size:
Males weigh approximately 700 grams, and females around 600 grams.

Egg Production:
Hens lay small, creamy white eggs.  
They are known to be good mothers.  

Temperament:
Hens are generally known for their friendly demeanor.  
Roosters can sometimes be more assertive.

Varieties:
They come in a wide range of colours, with numerous recognized varieties.  

Historical Background:

The breed originated in the province of Antwerp, in northern Flanders, Belgium.
They are one of the oldest bantam breeds.
Their history can be traced back to small bearded chickens depicted in 17th-century paintings.
They are the only Belgian bantam breed that is not considered to be endangered.  

Uses:

Primarily kept as ornamental birds.
Popular among poultry fanciers for showing.
Also kept as pets, particularly due to the hens' friendly nature.  
In summary, the Barbu d'Anvers is a delightful and unique bantam breed with a rich history, making them a popular choice for both exhibition and companionship.



Please note that all Poultry orders are click and collect only, not available for delivery, when going through to the checkout please make sure you select Click and collect as the option.

The Barbu de Boitsfort is a fascinating breed of bantam chicken originating from Belgium.

Origin and Relationship:
It's a relatively recent breed, developed in Belgium.  
It's essentially a tailless variant of the Barbu de Watermael.  
It takes its name from the commune of Watermael-Boitsfort in the Brussels region.  

Distinctive Feature:
The most prominent characteristic is the complete absence of a tail. This "rumpless" quality sets it apart from its close relative, the Barbu de Watermael.  

Similarities to Barbu de Watermael:
Aside from the lack of a tail, the Barbu de Boitsfort shares many similarities with the Barbu de Watermael in terms of appearance and characteristics.
 
Characteristics:
They are true bantams, meaning they have no large-fowl counterpart.  
They possess the "barbu" (bearded) feature common to Belgian bantams.  
They are kept primarily for ornamental purposes.
They produce small white eggs.

Varieties:
There are a wide range of colour varieties that are recognized.

Status:
The breed is considered to be in a critical conservation status.
In essence, the Barbu de Boitsfort is a unique and charming bantam breed, prized for its distinctive tailless appearance and ornamental value.



Please note that all Poultry orders are click and collect only, not available for delivery, when going through to the checkout please make sure you select Click and collect as the option.

The Barbu de Watermael is a delightful and unique breed of bantam chicken originating from Belgium.  

Origin:
They come from the town of Watermael-Boitsfort, in the Brussels region of Belgium, hence their name.  
The breed was developed in the early 20th century.

Characteristics:
They are true bantams, meaning they have no large-fowl counterpart.  
A defining feature is their "barbu" (bearded) appearance, with a distinctive beard and muffs.  
They have a unique spined rose comb with three prominent spikes.  
They are relatively small, even for bantams.  
They have clean legs.  
They produce small white eggs.  

Temperament:
Generally, they are known for their friendly and docile temperament.
However, roosters can sometimes be assertive, especially during breeding season.

Uses:
Primarily kept as ornamental birds.
Popular among poultry enthusiasts for exhibition.  
Also enjoyed as pets due to their charming appearance and demeanor.  

Varieties:
They come in a wide array of colour varieties, showcasing the breed's versatility.
 
Conservation status:
The breed is considered to be in a critical conservation status.

In essence, the Barbu de Watermael is a captivating bantam breed, prized for its distinctive appearance and charming personality.



Please note that all Poultry orders are click and collect only, not available for delivery, when going through to the checkout please make sure you select Click and collect as the option.

Polish chickens are a truly striking breed, known for their extravagant crest of feathers.

Key Features:

Distinctive Crest:
Their most recognizable feature is the large, flamboyant crest of feathers on their head. This crest can sometimes obscure their vision.

Appearance:
They have a V-shaped comb, often hidden by their crest.
Small wattles and earlobes, which can also be hidden by their facial feathers.
They come in a wide variety of colours and patterns, including laced, solid, and crested varieties.
They have clean legs.

Temperament:
Generally known for their gentle and docile nature.
They can be somewhat timid, possibly due to their limited vision.
They tend to be social and get along well with other chickens.

Uses:
Primarily kept as ornamental or show birds.
Also popular as pets due to their unique appearance and gentle temperament.
They are moderate egg layers, producing white eggs.

Origins and History:

Despite their name, the exact origins of the Polish chicken are uncertain.
They have a long history in Europe, with depictions in 17th-century paintings.
There are theories that they originated from areas in eastern Europe.
It is known that they have been cultivated for hundreds of years.

Important Considerations...

Vision:
Their crest can obstruct their vision, making them more vulnerable to predators. It's important to provide a safe and secure environment.

Care:
Their crest may require extra care to keep it clean and free from debris.
They are not considered a very hardy breed, and may require extra protection from harsh weather.
In essence, Polish chickens are beloved for their unique and captivating appearance, making them a popular choice for poultry enthusiasts and hobbyists alike.

Please note that all Poultry orders are click and collect only, not available for delivery, when going through to the checkout please make sure you select Click and collect as the option.