White Silkie Bantam

White Silkie Bantam

The White Bearded Silkie Bantam (Exhibition Type) was the first Silkie variety recognized in the American Standard of Perfection, dating back to 1874. This unique breed features a striking look, with fluffy white feathers, black skin, and a deep mulberry-colored comb and wattles. Known for their gentle temperament, these bantams make excellent show birds and are well-suited as friendly backyard pets.

Silkies are naturally broody, making them ideal for hatching and raising chicks from other breeds as well. If you’re looking for a standout exhibition bird or a tame companion for your backyard, the show-quality White Bearded Silkie is an exceptional choice. Order yours today or reach out for more information!

Health and Care:

• Hardy and Resilient: The White Silkie Bantam is a relatively hardy breed, but like other Silkies, it is more susceptible to extreme weather due to its soft, fluffy feathers. In cold climates, these bantams need to be protected from drafts, as their feathers do not provide as much insulation. In hot climates, they need access to shade and fresh water to prevent heat stress, as their feathers may cause them to overheat.
  
  
• Disease Resistance: White Silkie Bantams are generally healthy and disease-resistant, but due to their soft, fine feathers, they can be more prone to parasites, such as mites and lice. Regular feather care and inspection for parasites are important to maintain their health. Additionally, ensuring their environment is clean and dry will help prevent other common poultry diseases.
  
  
• Low Maintenance: Silkies are generally low-maintenance when it comes to feeding and care. They need a balanced diet, fresh water, and a safe, dry living space. However, they do require regular grooming to prevent their feathers from becoming matted or dirty, especially in wet conditions.

Egg Laying:

• Moderate Egg Production: The White Silkie Bantam is a moderate egg layer, typically producing about 100-150 small white eggs per year. While they are not as prolific as some other breeds, they provide a steady supply of eggs for personal use.
  
  
• Seasonal Laying: Like many chicken breeds, their egg production may slow during the winter months when daylight hours are shorter. However, with supplemental lighting, egg production can continue year-round.
  
  
• Small White Eggs: The eggs they produce are typically small and white in color. While they are not the largest eggs, they are perfect for home kitchens and small-scale egg production.

Temperament:

• Gentle and Friendly: One of the main reasons the White Silkie Bantam is so popular is its calm, docile, and affectionate nature. These bantams are often described as pet-like, as they are friendly and enjoy being handled. They are ideal for families, children, and beginners who are looking for a bird that is easy to interact with and maintain.
  
  
• Sociable: The White Silkie Bantam is social and enjoys the company of other chickens. They tend to get along well in mixed-flock settings and are not particularly territorial or aggressive. They are peaceful and are often seen as gentle companions for other poultry.
  
  
• Quiet and Calm: These bantams are generally quiet and do not make loud or disruptive noises. This makes them an excellent choice for those living in urban or suburban areas with noise restrictions. Their calm and peaceful nature ensures that they remain relaxed and comfortable around other chickens and humans.
  
  
• Affectionate and Shy: While generally very friendly, the White Silkie Bantam can also be a bit shy or timid, particularly in new or unfamiliar environments. However, they will usually warm up quickly to their caretakers and enjoy companionship once they feel comfortable.
  

Appearance:

• Distinctive White Plumage: The White Silkie Bantam has beautiful pure white feathers that are soft, fluffy, and silky to the touch. Unlike typical chicken feathers, the Silkie’s feathers are non-porous and have a unique texture that makes them look almost like soft fur. The pristine white plumage gives them an elegant and ornamental appearance, and they are highly prized for their beauty.
  
  
• Silky Feathers: True to the name, the White Silkie Bantam has silky, fine feathers that create a fluffy and full appearance. Their feathers are very fine and soft, which can make them prone to dirt accumulation or matting if not properly cared for.
  
  
• Feathered Legs and Feet: Like all Silkie bantams, the White Silkie Bantam has feathered legs and feet, contributing to its unique appearance. The feathering on the legs and feet requires regular maintenance to keep them clean and free of dirt, especially during wet or muddy conditions.
  
  
• Small and Compact Build: The White Silkie Bantam is a small, compact breed. Hens typically weigh around 1-1.5 pounds, and roosters weigh around 1.5-2 pounds. Despite their small size, their fluffy plumage makes them look larger than they actually are.
  
  
• Small Comb and Wattles: The White Silkie Bantam has a small, walnut-shaped comb, and small wattles. These features are relatively subtle compared to other breeds and add to their delicate, ornamental appearance. The red comb and wattles provide a lovely contrast against their white feathers.
  
  
• Black Skin: One of the most interesting features of the Silkie Bantam breed is its black skin. Unlike most chickens, which have pale skin, Silkies have dark, almost black skin. This adds to their exotic and unique appearance.

What is a White Bearded Silkie Bantam?
A unique bantam chicken with fluffy white feathers, black skin, and a mulberry-colored comb, perfect for exhibition and as a pet.

When was the White Bearded Silkie Bantam recognized in the American Standard of Perfection?
It was admitted in 1874 as the first Silkie variety.

Are White Bearded Silkie Bantams good for shows?
Yes, they excel in exhibitions due to their distinctive appearance and docile nature.

Do White Bearded Silkie Bantams make good pets?
Absolutely, their gentle temperament makes them excellent backyard pets.

Are White Bearded Silkie Bantams broody?
Yes, they are naturally broody and can help hatch and raise chicks from other breeds.

White Silkie Bantam Facts