Breed Origin: The Scots Dumpy Chicken is a breed that originated in Scotland. It is believed to have been developed in the 16th century, but its exact origin is not clear.
Uses: Scots Dumpy Chickens are primarily kept as ornamental birds. They are known for their unique appearance and friendly temperament, which makes them great pets. They are also kept for their meat and eggs, but their slow growth rate and low egg production make them less suitable for commercial purposes.
Large Fowl: Yes, Scots Dumpy Chickens are considered a large fowl breed.
Weight: Scots Dumpy Chickens are a heavy breed. Roosters can weigh up to 4.5 kg (10 lbs), while hens can weigh up to 3.6 kg (8 lbs).
Cockerel: The average weight of a Scots Dumpy cockerel is around 4.5 kg (10 lbs).
Hen colour: Scots Dumpy hens can come in a variety of colours, including black, blue, white, cuckoo, and red.
Egg Colour: Scots Dumpy hens lay brown eggs.
Average Egg Weight: The average egg weight of a Scots Dumpy hen is around 55-60 grams.
Egg Quantity: Scots Dumpy hens are not prolific layers, and will typically lay around 150-180 eggs per year.
Scots Dumpy Chicken: History, Characteristics, and Care
The Scots Dumpy Chicken, also known as the Bakies or Bakie Hens, is a rare breed of domestic chicken that originated in Scotland. It is named after its characteristic short, stumpy legs, which are the result of a naturally occurring genetic mutation. The breed is thought to have been in existence for over 300 years, and was first recorded in Scotland in the early 18th century.
History
The exact origins of the Scots Dumpy Chicken are unknown, but it is believed to have descended from a type of chicken that was common in Scotland in the 16th and 17th centuries. The breed was popular among Scottish farmers and was known for its hardiness and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions.
The Scots Dumpy Chicken was also highly valued for its meat and eggs. However, with the introduction of larger, more productive breeds of chickens in the 19th century, the Scots Dumpy Chicken began to decline in popularity and by the mid-20th century was almost extinct.
In the 1970s, a group of dedicated breeders in Scotland began a program to revive the breed. Today, the Scots Dumpy Chicken is still considered rare, but thanks to the efforts of these breeders, its numbers are slowly increasing.
Characteristics
The most distinctive feature of the Scots Dumpy Chicken is its short, stumpy legs. The legs are only 3-4 inches long and the bird's body is almost touching the ground. This unusual body shape gives the Scots Dumpy Chicken a unique appearance and makes it easy to identify.
In addition to its short legs, the Scots Dumpy Chicken has a round, plump body, a small head, and a single comb. The bird's feathers are dense and soft, with a slightly curly appearance. Scots Dumpy Chickens are available in a variety of colors, including black, white, red, and blue.
The Scots Dumpy Chicken is a docile, friendly bird that makes an excellent pet. It is also a good forager and will happily scratch around in the garden, eating insects and other small creatures. However, because of its short legs, the Scots Dumpy Chicken is not a strong flier and is best kept in a secure enclosure.
Care
Like all chickens, Scots Dumpy Chickens require basic care and attention to stay healthy and happy. They need a clean, dry coop with plenty of space to move around and roost. The coop should be well-ventilated and protected from drafts, and should be cleaned regularly to prevent the build-up of bacteria and parasites.
Scots Dumpy Chickens should be fed a balanced diet that includes a mix of commercial chicken feed, grains, and fresh fruits and vegetables. They also need access to clean water at all times.
In terms of health, Scots Dumpy Chickens are generally hardy and disease-resistant. However, like all chickens, they are susceptible to parasites and other common ailments. Regular health checks and preventative measures such as vaccinations and parasite control are important for keeping Scots Dumpy Chickens healthy.
The Scots Dumpy Chicken is a unique and fascinating breed of chicken with a long history and a loyal following. Although still rare, the breed is making a comeback thanks to the efforts of dedicated breeders and enthusiasts. If you're looking for a friendly, docile chicken with a distinctive appearance, the Scots Dumpy Chicken may be the perfect addition to your flock.
