Breed Profile: Polish

Photo of Kassandra Smith

Kassandra Smith

Senior Editor • Backyard Chicken Coops

Last Updated: 21 July 2020

polish-chicken-show-bird-breed-profile

Polish chickens are bred primarily as a show bird, but were originally productive egg layers. Accordingly, Polish rarely go broody and are noted for their white eggs. Polish are very vulnerable to predators due to their reduced vision so extra care and protection must be practiced to ensure your small fluffy friends stay safe.

HISTORY

  • Origin: Netherlands
  • Size: 2-2.75kg
  • Bantam Size: 0.74-0.85kg
  • Rarity: Partially rare
  • Purpose: Ornamentals
  • Bearded Recognized Variations: Black Crested White, White Crested Black
  • Non-Bearded Recognized Variations: Golden, Silver, White, Buff Laced

EGG FACTS

  • Small and White
  • 200 Eggs Average Annually

FEATURES

There are bearded, non-bearded and frizzle varieties. The Polish is a light, Continental breed. Its prominent crest is caused by a protuberance, or knob, atop the bird's skull, from which the feathers grow. It sports the V-shaped Comb and large nostrils commonly seen in crested breeds. Care must be taken so that the Polish's crest and  beard do not get wet or mite-infested.

BACKYARD BEHAVIOUR

  • Hardy in Winter: No
  • Especially Docile: Yes
  • Personality: They are  Friendly and quiet. They are tame but their behaviour can be a bit wacky since their crest limits their vision. When in a flock with more aggressive breeds, Polish will tend to be on the low end of the pecking order.
  • Family Friendly Rating: 4.5/5
  • Other Chickens with a high Family Friend Rating: Orpington, Barred Plymouth Rock, New Hampshire, ISA Brown, Rhode Island Red

Would you like to know more? Have a peck at our 5 reasons to love Polish chickens here.

Wondering if the pretty Polish chickens are the right match for you? Choosing the perfect breed for your family is an eggstremely difficult task. Before making that important decision, take a moment to consider all the other awesome breeds you could choose! From looks to traits to egg-laying talents - where should you begin?

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Sources and further reading