Description

Silver Duckwing Yokohama Chicken

Breed History and Origin

If you’ve been searching for a visually appealing chicken for your property, the Silver Duckwing Yokohama is an excellent choice. At Cackle Hatchery® we have been one of the primary breeders of the Silver Duckwing Yokohama in the United States for decades and take pride in the quality of our birds. Originating in Japan, this very rare breed is known for its upright carriage and pheasant-like body type. The Silver Duckwing Yokohama has not yet been admitted to the American Standard of Perfection but remains an important heritage breed with a threatened conservation status. Cackle Hatchery® Poultry Breeding Farm has been developing its bloodline of Red Shouldered Yokohama, White Yokohama, and Silver Duckwing Yokohama since 1977.

Appearance and Breed Characteristics

The Silver Duckwing Yokohama is especially admired for its elegant plumage and dramatic feather development. This variety displays beautiful silver and black feathering combined with the traditional long flowing plumage characteristic of Yokohama chickens. Roosters are particularly notable for their extremely long saddle and tail feathers, which under proper conditions can grow two to three feet per year. Mature hens generally weigh about 3½ pounds, while roosters average around 4½ pounds. Pullets typically weigh about 3 pounds and cockerels about 4 pounds. Their slender body shape and graceful posture make them a favorite among ornamental poultry enthusiasts.

Egg Production and Performance

Silver Duckwing Yokohama hens lay cream or lightly tinted eggs that are generally small in size. Egg production is considered fair compared to production breeds, as this chicken is primarily kept for ornamental and exhibition purposes rather than egg production.

Temperament and Flock Suitability

These birds are active and alert, performing best in environments where they have room to move freely. They commonly prefer higher roosting areas and often select roosts four feet or higher when available. Fertility percentages typically range between 40–55%, with a recommended mating ratio of eight females to one male. Broodiness among hens may vary.

Longtail Breed Characteristics

Yokohama chickens belong to a group of ornamental longtail breeds that are prized for their elegant feather development and graceful appearance. Proper housing and care are important for maintaining the condition of the long tail feathers.

To learn more about longtail chicken breeds, see our blog:
Breed Spotlight: Lovely Longtail Chickens

Silver Duckwing Yokohama Chicken FAQs

How long can a Yokohama rooster’s tail grow? Under proper conditions the tail feathers of Yokohama roosters can grow two to three feet per year.
What color eggs do Silver Duckwing Yokohama chickens lay? Hens lay small cream or lightly tinted eggs.
Are Yokohama chickens good egg layers? Egg production is considered fair because the breed is primarily raised for ornamental and exhibition purposes.
Are Silver Duckwing Yokohama chickens rare? Yes. This breed is considered a threatened heritage chicken and is relatively rare in the United States