Silkie Chickens (Hens)
Price: Our prices are very competitive but do vary from batch to batch. Please call the store to confirm current price.
Availability: Please call our Sydney store on (02) 97475713 to confirm availability and price. Please do NOT email regarding availability but call the store instead.
How to Buy: All our pets are in-store pick only and are NOT available for home delivery.
Store Address: 56 Coronation Pde, Enfield NSW. (near Strathfield)
Age: Varies from batch to batch. Usually 10 to 12 weeks of age.
Colours: Various Colours, but won't know till stock arrives.
Vaccination: Our Silkies have been vaccinated for Marek's Disease.
About Silkies for Sale: Silkies are quite compliant and docile birds and despite their soft delicate appearance are reasonably robust. The birds can be tamed and are often regarded by their owners as a real pet. Combine this with their curious, delicate appearance and one can see why this bird is often an appealing choice for the novice or child.
Other Chickens available: Isa brown Hens, Australorps, White Leghorns, Baby Isa Browns. Ducks also available.
Disclaimer: All photo's in this section are for promotion purposes only and are NOT the actual poultry for sale. The actual poultry for sale may look significantly different or may even be a different breed to the birds pictured here.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q. Are your Silkies Bantam hens?
A. We are a bit uncertain if there is a separate variety of Silkies that are classified as bantams or if all Silkies are considered bantams. What we know for sure is that our Silkies are a little larger than typical bantams but smaller than regular laying breeds like Isa Browns.
Further reading from Wikipedia:
Silkies are often mistakenly called a bantam breed, and although they are considered bantams in some countries, this varies according to region and many breed standards class them officially as large fowl; the bantam Silkie is actually a separate variety most of the time. Almost all North American strains of the breed are bantam sized, but in Europe the standard-sized is the original version. However, even standard Silkies are relatively small chickens, with the males weighing only 1.8 kg, and females weighing 1.36 kg.
Q. Are these Silkies for Sale all hens because i don't want a rooster?
A. Yes, we buy these Silkies from our supplier as all hens.
Silkie Chicken Care Suggestions (Australia)
1. Housing & Environment
- Coop Size: Provide at least 0.4–0.5m² per bird inside the coop.
- Run Space: Aim for 1m² or more per bird in an enclosed run.
- Weather Protection: Silkies don’t handle wet or extreme cold well due to their unique feather structure. Ensure good shelter from rain, wind, and temperature extremes.
- Ventilation: Good airflow is crucial to prevent respiratory issues.
2. Bedding & Cleanliness
- Best bedding: Use dry, absorbent materials like wood shavings, straw, or hemp.
- Regular Cleaning: Clean the coop weekly to prevent mites and bacteria buildup.
3. Feeding & Nutrition
- Starter Feed (0-6 weeks): High-protein chick starter (19-22%).
- Grower Feed (6-16 weeks): Lower protein (16-18%) to support steady growth.
- Layer Feed (16+ weeks): Balanced diet with 16-18% protein and calcium for strong eggshells.
- Treats: Vegetables, fruits, mealworms, and grains (moderation).
- Water: Clean, fresh water available at all times.
4. Health & Common Issues
- Mites & Lice: Silkies are prone to external parasites due to their fluffy feathers. Dust with Diatomaceous Earth or use poultry dusting powder.
- Scaly Leg Mites: Prevent with regular checks and Vaseline applications if needed.
- Wry Neck: Silkies are more susceptible due to a genetic predisposition. Supplement with Vitamin E & Selenium if signs appear.
- Heat Stress: Provide shade, fresh water, and frozen treats during hot Australian summers.
- Predator Protection: Secure the coop against foxes, hawks, and snakes.
5. Behaviour & Social Needs
- Broodiness: Silkies frequently go broody and make excellent mothers.
- Gentle Nature: They are friendly and do well with children.
- Integration: Silkies can be bullied by aggressive breeds, so introduce them carefully.
6. Breeding & Egg Production
- Egg Laying: Silkies lay about 100-150 small, cream-coloured eggs per year.
- Roosters: Can be noisy and territorial—check local council regulations before keeping one.
7. Legal Considerations in Australia
- Council Regulations: Many councils have restrictions on roosters and backyard flocks.
- Biosecurity: Register your flock with local poultry authorities if required.
Final Tips
- Keep them dry and out of extreme heat or cold.
- Handle them gently to maintain their friendly nature.
- Provide perches close to the ground since Silkies don’t fly well.
Disclaimer: Please seek expert advise before caring for chickens. Do not depend on the information on this page as it may have errors or be dated or does not apply to your situation.