Silkies Aren’t “Just Cute”—Here’s What You’re Missing

send us an email and be sure to include your address so we can respond!Silkie chickens are one of the most misunderstood breeds in poultry—and most people are getting it wrong.In this episode of the Poultry Nerds Podcast, we sit down with veterinarian Dr. Nicole to break down what actually matters when it comes to breeding, raising, and selecting high-quality Silkies.From genetics and defects to breed standards and real-world care, this episode cuts through the fluff and gives you practical knowledge you can actually use.We cover everything from the truth behind Silkie traits like black skin and five toes, to common defects like crossbeak, duck toe, and poor crest structure—and how to identify and eliminate them from your breeding program.We also dive into incubation, egg selection, housing challenges, and why Silkies require a completely different level of care than most chickens.No guesswork. No gatekeeping. Just real poultry education.We believe poultry breeders deserve accurate information, proven methods, and real guidance—not opinions, trends, or bad advice from people who aren’t doing it.If you're serious about improving your birds, this episode is for you. Valley Hatchery is a proud sponsor of Poultry Nerds, find more at ValleyHatchery.com Support the showFeel Free to email us at - [email protected] us on Facebook at - https://www.facebook.com/PoultryNerdsSign up for News at PoultryNerds.comEggFoam.com get your egg shippers and live shipping boxes and always get free shipping!ShowPro feed supplement for all your feathered friends! Grow them bigger and healthier with the best ingredients.Coturnix Quail hatching eggs from Bryant's Roost, including jumbo celadons!Quail cartons and Supplies from Double R FarmsPlease subscribe to our podcast and leave a review, we appreciate you.  And if you have a subject request, email us. [email protected]