Houdan

Houdans are another froofy French breed, just like their cousins the Crevecoeurs. They're also related to the Polish breed of chicken. Just like Polish and Crevecoeurs, Houdans are crested with fluffy 'dos and have a V-shaped comb. Houdans are unique, however, in having 5 toes and a beard. They're considered very docile and amenable to confinement. They're also efficient in terms of food eaten to egg ratio. They're rarely kept, but easy to find at hatcheries in the U.S.

Mottled Houdan Hen

Origins/History:

Class: Continental (French)
Type: Large Fowl
Size: Very Heavy (8+ lbs)
Rarity: Rare
Purpose: Ornamental
Recognized Varieties: White, Mottled

Egg Facts:

Egg Laying: Fair (2/wk)
Egg Color: White
Egg Size: Small

Fancy Features:

Comb Type: V-Shape Comb
Crested: Yes
Feathered Legs: No
Number of Toes: 5

Suitability to Backyard Life:

Cold Hardiness: Not cold hardy
Heat Tolerance: Tolerates heat well
Bears Confinement: Bears confinement well
Especially Docile: Yes
Setter/Broody: Yes
Personality: Sweet and very easily handled.