The Houdan originated in France and were known even before 1700. It was found in a town outside of Paris, Yvelines. The fowl are thought to be bred from breeds of that area that have dated back to Roman times, AD 7 - AD 40. The Houdan were imported to Great Britain around the 1850’s through the 1860’s. Then they were brought to the United States in 1867 by Mr. Dorose.

 

Characteristics

Houdans possess a crest, beard and muffs and have five toes on each foot. Their rectangular bodies are set on fairly short legs. They are one of the better ornamental breeds for general utility use. Because of their crest, they require plenty of space and feed and water containers that prevent them from getting the crest wet and dirty, especially in cold weather. Because of the fifth toe, baby Houdans often walk with a skipping gait.

 

Standard Weights

Cock: 8 lbs

Hen: 6.5 lbs

Cockerel: 7 lbs

Pullet: 5.5 lbs

 

Varieties

• Mottled
• White

 

Skin Color

White.

 

Egg Shell Color

White.

 

Use

An ornamental fowl that is also a good egg producer and fairly good as a meat bird.

 

 

References

Chicken Breeds and Varieties (A2880), John L. Skinner, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Ekarius, Carol. "Chickens: Houdan." Pocketful of Poultry: Chickens, Ducks, Geese, Turkeys. North Adams, MA: Storey Pub., 2007. 80-81. Print.

"Houdan Chicken." The Livestock Conservancy. The Livestock Conservancy, n.d. Web. 29 June 2015.

Lewis, Celia. "Breed Profiles: Houdan." The Illustrated Guide to Chickens: How to Choose Them, How to Keep Them. New York: Skyhorse Pub., 2011. 93. Print.