Exotic chickens of the Paduan breed are very popular with numerous amateur poultry farmers. They attract buyers with their very unusual and beautiful appearance. The main distinguishing feature of these feathered pets is a lush ray-shaped crest and the absence of a crest. The homeland of Paduans is Italy.
This breed belongs to the group of decorative chickens of the meat and egg direction of productivity. During the year, laying Padua lay up to one hundred and twenty eggs. Of course, this is not the best indicator. But what is the appearance of this feathered pet. The average weight of an egg is 50 grams. Adult individuals reach two kilograms of live weight, roosters gain up to two and a half kilograms. Dwarf birds of the same breed, having reached maturity, weigh less than a kilogram.
There are several varieties of Paduan chickens: white and black, gold and silver, dwarf and chamois. They differ from each other mainly in color, dwarf ones also in height, weight and productivity.
Paduans are characterized by grace, lightness and bright plumage. Instead of a crest, they have a beautiful crest on their heads, in the form of a ball for laying hens and in the form of a mane for roosters. The head of a medium sized bird. Also, this breed of chickens does not have earrings, which are replaced by a wide beard. Large eyes are red or dark orange. A strong, large beak can be of various shades, depending on the type of bird, it is slightly curved.
Paduans have broad, strong shoulders and a very strong neck. The tail is quite long and wide, and the wings are small, not long. Lush, abundant plumage fits snugly to the body. The legs are short, not feathered, with four toes.
In addition to beautiful plumage, Paduana chickens are characterized by poise and a calm character. They do not conflict with other breeds kept in the compound, they are trusting and very friendly. If desired, these birds can be made tame.
With regard to feeding, this breed is unpretentious. However, you should be careful, as feathered pets are prone to various kinds of diseases, especially infectious ones. The most suitable for these chickens will be grains of corn, oats, wheat, and also millet. Much attention should be paid to the watering of the birds. Ordinary drinkers for Paduans will not work, because while drinking, their beard gets wet, which negatively affects the well-being and health of pets. Especially for them, you can buy a nipple drinker.
Feed for birds should always be clean, as well as the room in which they are raised. In winter, during the cold period, it is better to give chickens warm food, such as beans or peas, corn or lentils. You can not let these feathered pets eat everything. This may lead to poisoning.
