If you’ve ever heard the term “fur hen”, you might’ve scratched your head a little. Are we talking about a fluffy mammal or a bird? The name sounds like a mix-up between a furry animal and a chicken—and honestly, it kind of is. In this article, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about fur hens in plain, human language. Whether you’re a backyard chicken keeper, a curious animal lover, or just someone who stumbled across the term, you’re in the right place.
What Is a Fur Hen?
A fur hen is a casual, often affectionate nickname for a Silkie chicken, a breed that looks like it’s wearing a fuzzy sweater year-round. Instead of the regular smooth feathers most chickens have, Silkies have fluffy plumage that feels more like soft fur. That’s where the “fur” in fur hen comes from. They’re also smaller than average chickens and are best known for their sweet, calm personalities.
Why Are They Called Fur Hens?
Good question. While they’re not actually covered in fur, the feathers of Silkies don’t have the usual barbicels that hook feathers together. This gives their feathers a soft, flowing look—almost like hair or fur. People started calling them fur hens simply because that’s what they look and feel like.
A Little History: Where Did Fur Hens Come From?
The Silkie chicken has been around for centuries. Some say they originated in China, while others point to Southeast Asia. Marco Polo even mentioned them in his travels during the 13th century, describing chickens with “hair like a cat.”
Imagine being a traveler back then and coming across a chicken that looked like a fluffy rabbit. That’s exactly the kind of oddball animal story that sticks in your head—and that’s probably how the legend of the fur hen spread.
Why People Love Fur Hens
Let’s be honest: the fur hen looks like it belongs in a Disney movie. They’ve got a rounded body, a puffball of a head, and calm, beady eyes. But it’s not just about looks. Here’s why people fall head-over-heels for these birds:
1. Friendly and Calm
Unlike some chickens that can be a bit skittish or aggressive, fur hens are known for being incredibly docile. They love being around people, which makes them great pets, especially for families with kids.
2. Great Mothers
Fur hens are some of the best natural incubators out there. They go broody often, which means they love to sit on eggs and raise chicks—even if the eggs aren’t theirs.
3. Unique Appearance
Let’s not kid ourselves. Their looks are a big draw. With blue earlobes, five toes (most chickens have four), and feathers that look like fluff, they’re basically the unicorns of the chicken world.
Step-by-Step: How to Raise a Fur Hen
So maybe you’re hooked. You’ve seen the pictures. You’ve watched the YouTube videos. And now, you want your own fur hen. Let’s walk you through how to do it right.
Step 1: Do Your Homework
Before getting any pet, research is key. Read about their needs, check local zoning laws (some cities don’t allow backyard chickens), and make sure you’re ready for the commitment.
Step 2: Get the Right Setup
Fur hens, like all chickens, need a safe, warm, dry place to live. A secure coop with good ventilation and a clean run is essential. But because of their fluffy feathers, Silkies don’t handle wet or muddy conditions well. Their feathers don’t repel water like other chickens’, so they get soaked easily.
Step 3: Choose Healthy Birds
Buy from a reputable breeder or hatchery. Make sure the birds are alert, have clean vents, and are free from mites or lice. Look for birds with that trademark Silkie puff and no signs of illness.
Step 4: Feed and Water
Use quality poultry feed appropriate for their age (starter feed for chicks, layer feed for adults). Clean water should always be available. You can supplement with treats like vegetables, grains, and occasional fruits—but keep it balanced.
Step 5: Grooming and Health Checks
This is where fur hens need a bit more TLC. Their fluffy feathers can trap dirt and poop, especially around the vent area. Clean them gently as needed. Also, check their eyes, beak, and feet regularly.
Fur Hens and Cold Weather
Because of their unique feathering, fur hens don’t do well in wet or freezing weather. They need a dry and draft-free space in winter. You might need to use extra bedding, low-wattage heaters, or heated water bowls to help them stay comfortable when the temperature drops.
An anecdote from a backyard chicken owner named Lisa: “One snowy morning, I found my Silkie, Marshmallow, stuck in a drift. She just stood there confused, too fluffy to fly and too delicate to wander. That’s when I realized they’re indoor chickens pretending to be barn animals.”
Are Fur Hens Good Egg Layers?
Not really. If you’re looking to get a dozen eggs a week, fur hens might disappoint you. They do lay, but not as frequently as other breeds like Leghorns or Rhode Island Reds. On average, they lay about 3–4 small eggs per week.
But here’s the thing: people don’t usually keep fur hens for eggs. They keep them for companionship, their brooding ability, or just to add some flair to their flock.
How to Introduce Fur Hens to an Existing Flock
Introducing new chickens to an established flock can be tricky. Chickens have a strict pecking order, and newcomers can be bullied. Here’s how to do it safely:
- Quarantine your new birds for at least two weeks to check for diseases.
- Use a fence or pen inside your main coop so they can see each other but not touch.
- After a week or so, let them mingle under supervision.
- Watch closely. Pecking is normal, but aggression is not. Step in if it gets too rough.
Since fur hens are smaller and gentler, they can be more vulnerable. So take it slow.
Common Health Issues in Fur Hens
Every animal has its weak points, and fur hens are no exception. Some of the most common health concerns include:
- Mites and lice – Their dense feathers make a cozy home for parasites. Check regularly.
- Scaly leg mites – Watch their feet for crusty scales.
- Respiratory issues – Make sure their coop is clean and well-ventilated.
- Eye infections – Their fluffy head feathers can irritate their eyes if not trimmed.
Regular check-ups and good hygiene go a long way.
How to Groom Your Fur Hen
Yes, grooming chickens is a thing—especially when they’re fluffy like these. Here’s what to do:
- Trim feathers around their eyes so they can see.
- Keep the feathers near the vent clean and trimmed.
- Bathe only when necessary (and make sure they dry fully).
- Keep toenails trimmed.
And no, you don’t need to use fancy shampoo. Mild pet shampoo or even baby shampoo works just fine.
Fun Fact Corner
- Fur hens have black skin and bones—it’s a Silkie trait.
- They’re used in traditional Chinese medicine and cooking.
- They sometimes purr when happy—seriously!
- You can train them with treats, just like a dog.
Is a Fur Hen Right for You?
Let’s break it down:
Choose a fur hen if you want:
- A friendly, low-key pet.
- A unique bird to add to your flock.
- A broody hen to hatch eggs.
- A fun backyard buddy that looks like a walking cotton ball.
Skip it if you need:
- Lots of eggs.
- A rugged outdoor bird for harsh climates.
- Low-maintenance chickens.
Final Thoughts: The Charm of the Fur Hen
The fur hen might not win any productivity awards, but it wins hearts. Their calm demeanor, funky feathers, and pet-like personalities make them a favorite among chicken lovers. Whether you want one as a pet, a broody mother, or just for the joy of watching a fluffball waddle across your yard, fur hens bring a little bit of magic into your life.
So if you’ve been on the fence, maybe it’s time to give the fur hen a shot. Just be warned—once you get one, you might not be able to stop at one.