Can you keep silky chickens with normal chickens?

It's generally not recommended to keep Silky chickens with normal chickens. Here's why:

* Silkies are more delicate: They are known for their soft feathers, which are more prone to getting matted and dirty. They also tend to be more sensitive to cold weather and can have weaker immune systems compared to other breeds.

* Silkies are less aggressive: They are known for their docile nature and are less likely to defend themselves if bullied. Normal chickens, especially roosters, can be aggressive and might pick on the Silkies.

* Silkies are smaller: Silkies are smaller than most standard chicken breeds, which makes them more vulnerable to being trampled or injured by larger birds.

* Silkies are less productive: Silkies are primarily kept for their beauty and unique qualities, not for their egg production or meat. Their egg production is lower, and they are slower to mature.

However, there are some exceptions:

* Gentle breeds: If you keep Silkies with gentle and non-aggressive breeds, it might be possible to keep them together.

* Separate coop sections: If you have a large coop, you can create separate sections for the Silkies and other chickens, allowing them to interact while having their own space.

* Careful monitoring: If you decide to keep them together, it's essential to monitor the flock closely and intervene if you notice any signs of bullying or aggression.

Ultimately, the decision to keep Silkies with other chickens depends on your specific situation, the breeds involved, and your ability to monitor the flock closely. However, it's generally advisable to keep them separate for their safety and well-being.