Silver Duckwing Phoenix Standard Chicken

Silver Duckwing Phoenix Standard Chicken

The Silver Duckwing Phoenix Standard Chicken is a stunning and elegant breed with origins dating back to the Onagadori in Japan, though it was developed in post-World War II Germany. Known for their beautiful silver shoulder hackles and remarkably long tails, these chickens add a decorative touch to any flock. They are known for laying small eggs and are highly prized for their ornamental beauty and graceful presence. If you're looking to add these exquisite birds to your flock, consider placing an order with The Chicken Coop Company. Their unique appearance and history make them an intriguing choice for poultry enthusiasts.

Health and Care:

• Hardy and Resilient: The Silver Duckwing Phoenix is generally a hardy breed, well-suited for both warm and cooler climates. While the Phoenix chicken can handle a range of temperatures, they may be more susceptible to extreme cold due to their slender build and long feathers, so it’s important to provide adequate shelter during the winter months. In hot climates, they require access to shade and plenty of fresh water.
  
  
• Disease Resistance: Like many other breeds, the Silver Duckwing Phoenix is generally disease-resistant, but like all chickens, they can still be vulnerable to common poultry diseases such as mites, lice, and respiratory issues. Keeping the coop clean, providing proper nutrition, and monitoring for signs of illness are key to ensuring the health of these birds.
  
  
• Feather Care: One of the defining characteristics of the Silver Duckwing Phoenix is its long, flowing tail feathers. These feathers require regular grooming to keep them clean and free of debris. It's important to check their plumage, particularly the tail feathers, for tangles or damage. In addition, they need protection from excessive moisture or dampness, as their fine feathers are more prone to becoming matted when wet.
  
  

Egg Laying:

• Moderate Egg Production: The Silver Duckwing Phoenix is a moderate egg layer. They typically produce around 150-200 small white eggs per year. While they are not the most prolific egg layers, they offer consistent egg production for smaller households or personal use.
  
  
• Seasonal Laying: Like many chickens, egg production in the Silver Duckwing Phoenix may slow down in the winter months due to shorter daylight hours. However, with the help of supplemental lighting, they can continue to lay eggs consistently throughout the year.
  
  
• Small White Eggs: The eggs produced by the Silver Duckwing Phoenix are typically small to medium and white. They are suitable for home consumption and small-scale egg production, but not as large as eggs from other breeds.
  
  

Temperament:

• Active and Spirited: The Silver Duckwing Phoenix is an active, alert, and spirited breed. They are known for being highly energetic and curious, constantly exploring their surroundings. They enjoy free-ranging and foraging for food, which makes them an ideal choice for those with larger yards or backyards with space to roam.
  
  
• Friendly but Independent: Despite their high activity levels, these chickens are generally friendly and docile. They can be independent at times, as they tend to enjoy their own space and activities. However, they are still social birds and enjoy the company of other chickens. They generally get along well in a mixed-flock setting.
  
  
• Shy and Timid: Due to their active nature and long tail feathers, Silver Duckwing Phoenix chickens may be somewhat shy or timid, especially around new people or unfamiliar environments. They are not typically aggressive, but they may be more cautious or hesitant compared to other, more confident breeds.
  

Appearance:

• Striking Silver Plumage: The Silver Duckwing Phoenix is known for its elegant silver and black plumage. Their body is typically silver, while their wings and tail feathers have darker black markings with a slight iridescent sheen. This beautiful contrast creates a visually stunning bird.
  
  
• Long Flowing Tail Feathers: One of the most defining features of the Silver Duckwing Phoenix is its long, flowing tail feathers. These tail feathers are fine and delicate, often reaching impressive lengths. They give the bird a regal and graceful appearance, making it an ornamental favorite among poultry enthusiasts.
  
  
• Slender, Graceful Build: The Silver Duckwing Phoenix has a slender and graceful body, with a long neck and sleek frame. They are a medium-sized breed, with hens typically weighing around 4-5 pounds and roosters around 5-6 pounds. Their long tail feathers and slender build contribute to their elegant appearance.
  
  
• Small Comb and Wattles: Like many Phoenix chickens, the Silver Duckwing Phoenix has a small single comb that is upright and neat. Their red wattles and earlobes contrast beautifully with their silver plumage and add to their overall visual appeal.
  
  
• Graceful Posture: The Silver Duckwing Phoenix stands tall and proud with an elegant posture. Their long legs and refined body shape make them stand out in any flock, and their flowing tail feathers contribute to their majestic and ornamental look.
  
  

How long do Silver Duckwing Phoenix chickens live?
Silver Duckwing Phoenix chickens generally live for 5-10 years with proper care, nutrition, and housing conditions.

What is the egg production like for Silver Duckwing Phoenix chickens?
These chickens lay small eggs, typically producing a modest amount compared to more common egg-laying breeds. Their focus is more on ornamental value.

Are Silver Duckwing Phoenix chickens good for free-ranging?
Yes, Silver Duckwing Phoenix chickens are active birds that do well in free-ranging environments. However, their long tails require special care to avoid damage.

How should I care for the long tails of Silver Duckwing Phoenix chickens?
Their long tails need to be kept clean and dry, and their environment should minimize risk of damage. Many owners house them in large enclosures to maintain tail feather quality.

• Poultry Show Class: All Other Standard Breeds, Orientals Class
  
• Weights: Hen—–4 lbs
  Rooster——5 1/2 lbs
  Pullet—3 1/2 lbs
  Cockerel—–4 1/2 lbs
  
• Purpose and Type: Egg Laying, Long Tail Feathers; Exhibition
  
• Egg Shell Color: Cream or Tinted
  
• Egg Production: Poor
  
• Egg Size: Small
  
• Temperament: Active
  
• Fertility Percentage: 40-55%
  
• Broody: Setters
  
• Mating Ratio: 9 Females to 1 Male
  
• Roost Height: 6+ feet
  
• Country of Origin: Japan
  
• APA: Yes, Recognized by American Standard of Perfection in 2017
  
• TLC: Yes, Watch Status, Considered a sustainable heritage chicken breed.
  
• Breeder Farm Source: Poultry Breeding Farm has been developing our bloodline or strain of pure Silver Duckwing Phoenix since 1973.