Tag: chicken

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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Common Crested Chicken Breeds

A Few Fancy Crested Breeds and Where To Get Them

Here are the most common crested breeds that are available at most hatcheries. Yes! You can mail-order chicks and when they arrive at your local post office they will notify you.
We frequently order from Meyer Hatchery and have been very satisfied with their service, and the quality of their chicks. You don’t have to order a lot of chicks either, but keep in mind, chicks transport better when there are at least six.

Polish
Houdan
Sultan

My Favorite…

Silkie

Polish: The Polish chicken is a very popular breed of crested chicken known for its distinctive feather crest on its head. They come in a variety of colors including white, black, silver, and golden.
Houdan: The Houdan chicken is another popular breed of crested chicken known for its feather crest and muffs.
Sultan: The Sultan chicken is a unique crested breed known for its fluffy feather crest, beard, and feathered feet. They come in white and black varieties.
Silkie: The Silkie chicken is a crested chicken known for its soft, fluffy feathers and black skin.

Want to Research Other Breeds?

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