Everyone loves a yard sprinkled with different colors and breeds of chickens. Well, at least people who love chickens do! Chickens come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and colors, and each is fascinating in its own unique way.

But few are as charming and eye-catching as the Frizzle chicken breed. With their flipped-up feathers and sweet personality, Frizzles have captivated chicken lovers around the world. My own little Tinkerbell is a fan favorite! She’s itty bitty, but her personality is larger than life and she’s been an incredible addition to our backyard crew.

The History of Frizzle Chickens

Frizzle chickens have been around for centuries, with their unique feather gene likely originating in Southeast Asia. Some of the earliest records of Frizzles date back to the 1600s, when they were described by naturalists and travelers exploring the region.

The frizzled feather trait is actually the result of a natural genetic mutation. Rather than lying flat, the feathers curl outward, creating that fluffy, windswept look. Over time, breeders began to intentionally select for this trait in several chicken breeds.

Today, Frizzle chickens aren’t a distinct breed, but rather a feather type that can appear in birds like:

• Cochins

• Polish

• Orpingtons

• Silkies

• Mille Fleur d’Uccles (like my girl Tinkerbell!)

   

What Does a Frizzle Chicken Look Like?

It’s pretty hard to miss a Frizzle in the flock. Their curled feathers give them a puffball appearance that looks like they’ve just stepped out of a wind tunnel, in the cutest way possible. Because they can’t lay flat, their feathers also don’t insulate as well, so they tend to need a little extra care in cold weather.

Their eye-catching looks make them popular in poultry shows, but Frizzles aren’t just for show, they’re sweet, curious and tend to be very people-friendly.

How Many Eggs Do Frizzle Chickens Lay?

If you’re wondering, “Do Frizzle chickens lay eggs?”—they absolutely do! Just don’t expect them to be your top producers.

Since Frizzles are a feather type and not a production-focused breed, egg-laying depends on the breed they’re crossed with. On average, you can expect:

• 150 to 180 eggs per year

• Small to medium-sized eggs

• Cream or tinted shell colors

   

They’re more of a companion or show bird, but those eggs are still a nice bonus!

Caring for Frizzle Chickens

Frizzle chickens need the same basics as any backyard chicken, with a few small tweaks for their special feathers:

• A dry, draft-free coop is a must, especially in winter, since their feathers don’t shed water well

• Provide clean bedding and good ventilation

• Give them access to dust baths to help with feather and skin health

• Offer a balanced feed, grit and clean water daily

Here’s what I use in my own coop:

• Coop Recuperate for cleaner, healthier bedding

• Preen Queen in their dust baths to keep their feathers clean and insect-free

• Chicken E-lixir in their water for daily vitamins and immune support

Why Frizzles Are Worth the Hype

Whether you’re drawn to their adorable, poofy look or their easygoing personality, the Frizzle chicken breed is sure to bring something special to your backyard.

Tinkerbell may be half the size of everyone else, but she walks around like she runs the place (she doesn’t, but don’t tell her that). Most of my flock looks out for her and lets her do her thing, which is just one more reason I love raising chickens.

I started this journey to put fresh, healthy eggs on the table. But I stayed in it because I fell in love with the personalities, quirks and little moments that make chicken keeping so rewarding.

If you’re looking for a fun, friendly bird to brighten up your flock, add a Frizzle or two. You won’t regret it!

Until next time,

–The Wing Lady