If you’ve stumbled across the term “Fur Hen”, you might be scratching your head. What exactly is a fur hen? Is it a chicken with feathers so fluffy they look like fur? Or is it something else entirely? Don’t worry—you’re not alone in asking.
In this blog post, we’re going to explore the fascinating world of fur hens. Whether you’re a backyard chicken keeper, an animal enthusiast, or simply curious, this guide will walk you through what fur hens are, why they’re special, and how to care for them.
Let’s dive in!
What Is a Fur Hen?
The name “fur hen” usually refers to a special type of chicken breed that has silky, fur-like feathers instead of the typical stiff feathers you see on most chickens. These birds are often associated with the Silkie chicken, a fluffy and gentle breed that looks like a ball of living cotton.
So, while the name might sound odd, a fur hen isn’t an entirely new animal—it’s more about a breed of chickens with unique feathering.
Think of it this way: imagine your regular barnyard chicken dressed up in a feather coat that feels like rabbit fur. That’s a fur hen.
A Little History of Fur Hens
Silkie chickens (often called fur hens) have been around for hundreds of years. They originated in Asia, with historical records pointing to China and Japan. In fact, Marco Polo even mentioned a chicken with “hair like a cat” during his travels in the 13th century.
Over time, these birds spread to Europe and eventually the rest of the world, prized for their unusual looks and friendly personalities. Today, they’re one of the most popular ornamental chicken breeds.
Why Are Fur Hens So Special?
You might wonder—why all the fuss about a chicken with soft feathers? The answer lies in a mix of appearance, personality, and practicality.
1. Their Unique Look
- Fluffy feathers that look and feel like fur.
- Black skin and bones (yes, really!).
- A calm, rounded body shape.
- Feathered feet that make them look even more unusual.
2. Their Temperament
Fur hens are gentle and friendly. Unlike some chickens that can be skittish, fur hens are calm and often enjoy being handled. This makes them perfect for families, kids, and beginner chicken keepers.
3. Their Eggs
While fur hens don’t lay as many eggs as commercial breeds, they produce small, cream-colored eggs. Many people keep them more for companionship and beauty than for egg production.
How to Care for a Fur Hen
If you’re thinking of keeping fur hens, the good news is that they don’t require complicated care. However, their feathers and personalities mean you should take a few extra steps.
Housing
Like all chickens, fur hens need a safe coop to protect them from predators. Make sure the coop is:
- Dry and well-ventilated (moisture can damage their fluffy feathers).
- Secure with strong wire to keep out foxes, dogs, or hawks.
- Comfortable with perches and nesting boxes.
Feeding
A fur hen’s diet is similar to other chickens:
- A quality poultry feed with balanced nutrients.
- Fresh vegetables and occasional treats like grains or mealworms.
- Constant access to clean water.
Grooming and Care
Because their feathers are so soft, they don’t shed water as well as other chickens. That means:
- Keep them dry—avoid muddy or damp areas.
- Check regularly for mites or lice.
- Trim feathers around their eyes if they block vision.
The Personality of a Fur Hen
One of the best things about fur hens is their personality. They are often compared to lap pets because of their affectionate and calm nature.
Many owners say their fur hens happily sit in their laps, follow them around the yard, and even enjoy being cuddled. Unlike some flighty chickens, fur hens are grounded, making them an excellent choice for urban or suburban backyards.
Are Fur Hens Good for Kids?
Yes! If you’re looking for a family-friendly pet, fur hens are a wonderful option. They’re gentle, don’t scratch or peck aggressively, and their soft feathers make them fun to hold.
Imagine your child collecting eggs in the morning with a fluffy hen trailing behind—it’s like having a living stuffed animal.
Egg Laying: What to Expect
Now, let’s be clear—fur hens are not egg-laying machines. On average, a Silkie (fur hen) lays about 100 to 120 eggs per year. That’s roughly two to three eggs per week.
So, if you want lots of eggs, you may want to add other breeds to your flock. But if your goal is companionship and beauty, fur hens are perfect.
Fur Hens as Broody Mothers
Here’s something fascinating: fur hens are excellent mothers.
They often go “broody,” which means they want to sit on eggs and hatch them. If you have fertile eggs (from roosters or other breeds), your fur hen will happily sit on them and raise the chicks.
This makes them useful for small-scale farms or hobbyists who want natural hatching without incubators.
Common Health Concerns
Like all pets, fur hens need proper care to stay healthy. Here are a few issues to watch for:
- Wet Feathering: Since their feathers don’t repel water well, they can get soaked easily. Keep them dry.
- Eye Problems: Their fluffy crests sometimes block vision, making it hard to spot food or predators. Trimming helps.
- Lice and Mites: Their thick feathers can hide parasites, so check regularly.
- Predator Vulnerability: Because they can’t fly well, they rely on you for safety.
Why Keep a Fur Hen?
Still unsure if a fur hen is right for you? Let’s sum up the benefits:
- They’re gentle, friendly, and fun.
- Their unique look makes them a conversation starter.
- They’re great for kids and families.
- They can hatch and raise chicks naturally.
- They add beauty and variety to any backyard flock.
In short, a fur hen is like the golden retriever of the chicken world—loyal, loving, and always ready to brighten your day.
Tips for First-Time Fur Hen Owners
If you’re new to chicken keeping, here are some quick tips:
- Start with at least two or three hens—chickens are social animals.
- Keep their coop clean and dry to prevent illness.
- Handle them gently from a young age so they get used to people.
- Provide dust baths (a shallow box of sand/ash) for natural cleaning.
Fun Facts About Fur Hens
- They have five toes instead of the usual four.
- Their bones and skin are naturally dark blue or black.
- In Chinese culture, they are considered a delicacy and sometimes used in traditional medicine.
- They can be kept as house pets if trained properly (yes, like cats and dogs!).
Are Fur Hens Right for You?
Before getting a fur hen, ask yourself:
- Do I want a pet more than a high-production egg layer?
- Am I prepared to give them extra care to keep feathers clean and dry?
- Do I have children or a family that would enjoy a gentle, friendly pet?
If you answered “yes” to these questions, then fur hens might be the perfect fit.
Conclusion
The fur hen, often recognized as the Silkie chicken, is more than just a bird with funny feathers. It’s a gentle, affectionate, and fascinating companion. While they may not flood your kitchen with eggs, they’ll certainly fill your days with joy, curiosity, and maybe even a few laughs.
So, whether you’re building your first backyard flock or simply looking for a unique pet, the fur hen deserves a spot on your list.
After all, who wouldn’t want a chicken that looks like it’s wearing a fluffy fur coat?
