Author: TBN Ranch

Chicken Keeper in Phoenix, Arizona, with special interest in Silkie Bantams. Offering valuable resources to fellow chicken enthusiasts since 2012.

The Mottled Houdan

Mottled Houdan: My Pet Chicken

The Mottled Houdan is an ancient breed that originated in France. They are known for their unique appearance and have become popular exhibition birds due to their striking plumage.
Appearance: Houdans are crested and have a V-shaped comb, five toes & a beard.
Plumage: The Houdan breed is known for its beautiful plumage, characterized by a striking contrast of black and white.
Temperament: Houdans are known to be calm, friendly, and docile birds.
Egg Production: Low, 2-3 white eggs a week.
Cold Hardiness: Not cold hardy.
Heat Tolerant: Yes.
Exhibition Qualities: Houdans are highly regarded in the exhibition poultry community for their unique appearance.
Abundance: Considered rare.

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Time For a Chicken Coop Upgrade

Big Changes at TBN Ranch

It’s been a long time coming, after numerous predator attacks, and no way to keep my coop comfortable in Phoenix’s ridiculous heat, I’m finally doing something about it. I’m digging deep into my pockets and considering these two options. Option #1 is to have my covered corrals enclosed by a local company that specializes in custom enclosures. It will be done with wood framing and hardware cloth and have two entry doors. Or, option #2, building an entirely new coop by a local custom builder. The builders are coming in mid-June to discuss these options.
I’m open to their suggestions, but I’m leaning towards enclosing my corrals because of our summer monsoon storms. It was built in 2013 and I know it can withstand winds that exceed 70 MPH and stays dry in heavy rain.

Option#1: Enclosing Existing Corrals
Option #2: A New Coop Build (adding large wired windows)
This is what I want to enclose for my chickens.
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3 Common Chickens that Have Feathered Feet

Do You Think Chicken Feet Are Creepy?

You’re not alone, lots of people don’t like chicken feet! But what if they were covered in feathers? Here are a few breeds that you might like because they wear fuzzy slippers.

Brahma
Cochin
Silkie

Brahma – This breed is known for its large size, gentle disposition & feathered feet.
Eggs: About 200 per year.
Size: Standard: 8lbs. | Bantam: 34 oz.
Cochin – Known for their docile personalities & large size & big fluffy feet.
Eggs: 2-3 eggs per week medium brown or tinted.
Size: 8-8.5 lbs. | Bantam: Just under 2 lbs.
Silkie – Has fluffy feathers all over its body, including on its feet & toes.
Eggs: On average, about 120 small, cream-colored eggs per year.
Size: 2-3 lbs.

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