The Sultan originates from Turkey where they are known as Serai-Tavuk, “fowls of the sultan” and have been known to roam the gardens of Turkish royals in Constantinople. It is uncertain as to how old this breed is, they have been known in England since their arrival in 1854, brought by Mrs. Elizabeth Watts. They came to America in 1867.

 

Characteristics

The Sultan is considered a large fowl with interesting feathering. They are bearded, muffed and crested. They are also one of the few birds with five toes. As a chick, their feathering is white to pale yellow. On the male the crest flops over to one side, creating a visor over the eye. The plumage is snow white and abundant. Their shanks and feet are feathered. Though somewhat obscured by the crest, the Sultan has a v-shaped comb. Their wings are held low, hiding the thighs. The beak should be yellow and the face red.

 

Standard Weights

• APA
  • Cocks 6 lbs
  • Hen: 4 lbs
  • Bantam Cock 26 oz
  • Bantam Hen: 22 oz
• PCBG
  • Cock: 2.70 kg
  • Hen: 2.00 kg

 

Varieties

White.

 

Egg Shell Color

White.

 

Uses

The Sultan is used primarily for ornamental uses, laying very few eggs.

 

 

References

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

 

Ekarius, Carol. "Chickens: Sultan." Pocketful of Poultry: Chickens, Ducks, Geese, Turkeys. North Adams, MA: Storey Pub., 2007. 160-61. Print.

 

Lewis, Celia. "Breed Profiles: Sultan." The Illustrated Guide to Chickens: How to Choose Them, How to Keep Them. New York: Skyhorse Pub., 2011. 160-61. Print.

 

Roberts, Victoria. British Poultry Standards (6th Edition). Hoboken, NJ, USA: Wiley-Blackwell, 2009. ProQuest ebrary. Web. 7 July 2015.

 

"Sultan Chicken." The Livestock Conservancy. The Livestock Conservancy, n.d. Web. 07 July 2015.