The Naked Neck Chicken, often called the turken chicken or bare neck chicken, is one of the most unique birds in the poultry world. Its strange but lovable appearance, with a naturally featherless neck, is a sight that surprises many at first glance. But once you get to know these birds, you’ll see why so many backyard chicken keepers, farmers, and pet owners adore them. Their unusual look isn’t just for show—it actually helps them stay cooler in hot weather and makes it easier to pluck for meat. They also handle cold climates better than expected and are known for being tough, healthy birds.
History and Origin of the Naked Neck Chicken
The Naked Neck Chicken has a long and interesting history. This breed first appeared in Transylvania, a region in Romania, which is why it’s sometimes called the Transylvanian Naked Neck. Over time, people started calling it the turken chicken because it looks like a mix between a turkey and a chicken. But don’t worry—it’s 100% chicken! The breed became popular in Germany, where farmers appreciated its ability to grow quickly, lay plenty of eggs, and handle harsh weather. German breeders helped improve its size and strength, creating a sturdy and functional dual-purpose bird. Eventually, it spread to other parts of Europe and the United States.
Today, the American Poultry Association recognizes the Naked Neck Chicken, and many poultry farms and homesteads keep them for both meat and eggs. Their odd appearance often turns heads at shows and farm fairs, making them a favorite among hobbyists and poultry lovers. Thanks to their strong history and practical traits, these birds remain a wise choice for anyone looking to raise healthy, hardy chickens.
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Unique Characteristics of the Naked Neck Chicken
The Naked Neck Chicken stands out the moment you see it. Its most noticeable trait is the absence of feathers on the neck, giving it that bare, turkey-like look. But don’t be fooled—this is a whole chicken breed, not a mix with a turkey. These birds come in many beautiful colors, including black, white, buff, and red. Their bodies still have feathers, but they tend to have fewer than other breeds. This makes it easier for them to keep clean and cool in the summer. Their feather-reduction characteristics also help with faster feather drying after rain.
Naked Necks are medium to large birds with strong bodies and broad breasts. Roosters can weigh around 8 pounds, while hens usually reach about 6.5 pounds. Their undersized meat birds reputation is false—they grow well and have impressive breast size, making them great for meat. They lay turkey chicken eggs in a nice size, usually light brown in color. With their solid frame, faster growth, and fewer feathers to manage, this breed offers both charm and convenience to any flock of backyard chickens.
Nature and Temperament of the Naked Neck Chicken
The Naked Neck Chicken is known for its gentle and friendly nature. These birds are calm, easygoing, and get along well with people and other chickens. They don’t mind being picked up and often enjoy human company, which makes them great for families, pet owners, and even school poultry projects.
These chickens are also very active. They love to roam around, scratch the ground, and explore the yard. That’s why many people keep them as free-range chickens. Their curious behavior adds fun to chicken time, especially for kids and beginners.
Even though they have a rugged look with their bare necks, they’re actually some of the friendliest chickens around. They rarely fight and are not bossy in a flock. They also stay calm in different weather, which helps reduce stress in the coop. If you’re looking for a funny chicken with a heartwarming personality, the Naked Neck is a top pick. These birds are peaceful, smart, and make nice chickens to have in any backyard or small farm setting.
Food and Diet for Healthy Naked Neck Chickens
Feeding your Naked Neck Chickens the right way is key to keeping them healthy and strong. These birds grow well and lay lots of turken chicken eggs, so they need a balanced diet filled with energy, protein, and vitamins. Start with a good-quality chicken feed that’s made for dual-purpose birds. Look for feed that has at least 16–18% protein for growing chicks and egg-laying hens.
As they get older, you can add grains like cracked corn or wheat for extra energy. Naked Necks love to free-range, so letting them roam for insects, grass, and weeds gives them extra nutrients and keeps them active. You can also offer treats like chopped fruits, vegetables, and sunflower seeds—but only in small amounts.
Always keep clean water available, especially in hot weather, since these birds lose heat faster with their bare necks. Avoid feeding them salty food, chocolate, raw potatoes, or moldy leftovers. These can cause serious health problems. Also, don’t give them too many scraps—they still need their main feed for strong egg production and growth.
Tip: Mix crushed oyster shells into their feed to help strengthen eggshells and boost laying power!
Why Keep Naked Neck Chickens? Uses and Purpose
The Naked Neck Chicken is a true dual-purpose bird, which means it’s great for both egg production and meat. That’s one big reason why so many backyard chicken keepers and small farmers love this chicken breed. Hens lay a steady supply of medium to large turkey chicken eggs, often producing 150–200 eggs per year. These eggs are light brown, tasty, and perfect for daily use or selling at local markets.
Their egg-laying ability is dependable, even in colder months. For meat, Naked Necks grow fast and have a strong body with an impressive breast size. They’re easier to pluck because they have fewer feathers, which makes them a top choice for people who process their own birds at home.
These roaster chickens give clean, flavorful meat without the mess of feather removal. Besides being useful, they’re also popular as exhibition birds because of their odd and eye-catching look. Their unique style and friendly behavior win hearts at shows and on the farm. Whether you want a reliable egg layer, a good meat bird, or just a funny chicken to brighten your coop, the Naked Neck does it all.
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Special Features of the Naked Neck Chicken
The Naked Neck Chicken isn’t just another bird in the coop—it has several unique qualities that set it apart from other chicken breeds. One of the most noticeable features is the absence of neck feathers. This distinctive look not only makes it stand out but also helps the bird stay cooler in hot weather. With fewer feathers to manage, it’s easier to clean and care for, especially during the summer months.
This feather-reduction characteristic also makes the Naked Neck Chicken a faster-growing bird, which is great for farmers looking for efficient meat production. In addition to its bare neck, Naked Necks come in a variety of beautiful colors, including red, black, white, and buff, adding visual interest to any flock of backyard chickens.
The color variations make them a fun choice for poultry lovers who enjoy diversity in their feathered friends. These birds also have an impressive size and are strong and hardy, which is why they are considered an excellent choice for dual-purpose utility chickens—useful for both egg production and meat. Their calm and friendly demeanor makes them perfect for first-time chicken keepers and experienced farmers alike.
“Embrace The Charm Of Naked Neck Chickens – They’re Not Just Featherless, They’re Full Of Personality!”
Health Issues & Prevention for Naked Neck Chickens
The Naked Neck Chicken is generally a healthy chicken breed, but like any bird, it’s important to keep an eye out for common health issues and take steps to prevent them. Thanks to their hardiness, they tend to be more resistant to some diseases compared to other breeds, but good care can make all the difference.
Common Health Issues:
- Feather Loss: Although Naked Neck Chickens are known for their lack of neck feathers, they can sometimes experience additional feather loss due to parasites like mites or lice. Regularly check for signs of pests and keep their living area clean.
- Heat Stress: While their bare necks help them stay calmer than most breeds in hot weather, they can still suffer from heat stress. Always provide plenty of fresh water and shade during the warmer months to help them stay comfortable.
- Egg Binding: This is when a hen has difficulty laying an egg, often due to a calcium deficiency. To prevent egg binding, ensure your chickens have access to crushed oyster shells for strong eggshells and healthy laying.
- Respiratory Infections: Like all chickens, Naked Necks can be susceptible to respiratory issues, especially in damp or cold conditions. Make sure their coop is well-ventilated and dry to prevent respiratory diseases.
Prevention Tips:
- Regular Health Checks: Inspect your birds for signs of illness, like lethargy or a drop in egg production. Early detection makes treatment easier.
- Clean Environment: Keep your coop and nesting boxes clean to reduce the risk of parasites and infections.
- Balanced Diet: Ensure your birds get a healthy, well-balanced diet, with enough protein, vitamins, and minerals to stay strong and lay eggs consistently.
With regular care and attention, your Naked Neck Chickens will stay healthy, happy, and productive for years to come.
Step-by-Step Farming Guide for Naked Neck Chickens
Raising Naked Neck Chickens is straightforward, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced poultry owner. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you provide the best care for your featherless friends.
Set Up a Suitable Coop
The first step in raising Naked Neck Chickens is to set up a safe and comfortable living space. A chicken coop should be:
- Well-ventilated to prevent respiratory issues.
- Dry to avoid moisture-related problems.
- Spacious, with enough room for your chickens to move around comfortably. Aim for about 4 square feet per bird inside the coop and 10 square feet per bird in the outdoor run.
- Predator-proof. Make sure the coop is secure to protect your chickens from raccoons, foxes, and other animals.
Provide Proper Nutrition
Feed your Naked Neck Chickens a balanced diet. Start with a high-quality chicken feed for laying hens (16-18% protein). As they grow, supplement their diet with:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables like spinach, corn, or carrots.
- Grains like cracked corn provide extra energy, especially in colder weather.
- Clean, fresh water at all times to keep them hydrated.
Keep Them Comfortable in Different Climates
Since Naked Neck Chickens are hardy, they adapt well to both hot weather and cold climates. However, in hot weather, make sure they have access to:
- Plenty of shade to cool off.
- A misting system or fans to help with temperature regulation.
In cold climates, provide them with a draft-free coop and extra bedding to keep them warm during winter.
Monitor Their Health
Regularly check for signs of parasites or feather loss, especially around the neck area. Provide treatments as needed and keep their living environment clean to prevent disease.
Egg Collection and Meat Processing
If you’re raising Naked Neck Chickens for eggs, collect eggs daily to prevent them from getting dirty or damaged. For meat birds, they grow quickly and have strong breast size, making them a good option for roasting chickens.
Tip: If you have a mixed flock, Naked Neck Chickens tend to be peaceful, so they’ll get along well with other birds. Just make sure your coop is large enough to prevent overcrowding.
Expert Tips & Best Practices for Raising Naked Neck Chickens
Raising Naked Neck Chickens is rewarding, and with the proper knowledge, you can ensure they thrive. Here are some expert tips to help you get the best out of your featherless friends:
Give Them Space to Roam
While Naked Neck Chickens are hardy and adaptable, they’re active and curious. If you have the space, let them free-range during the day. They’ll enjoy scratching the ground, pecking for insects, and getting some natural exercise. Free-ranging can also help improve their diet, as they’ll eat grass, weeds, and bugs.
Maintain Cleanliness
A clean chicken coop is essential for keeping your chickens healthy. Regularly remove waste and bedding from the coop to prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria. Deep cleaning should be done monthly, including disinfecting the nesting boxes and feeders.
Provide Proper Roosting Space
Naked Neck Chickens, like all chickens, need a place to roost at night. Make sure their roosting bars are positioned higher than the nesting boxes, as chickens naturally prefer to perch up high. This will give them a place to sleep away from the ground.
Keep Them Cool in Hot Weather
The bare necks of Naked Neck Chickens help keep them cool, but during extreme heat, they may need some extra help. Consider adding a misting system or a fan in their coop. Also, provide plenty of cool water and shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
Check for Parasites Regularly
Since Naked Neck Chickens have fewer feathers, they’re more exposed to mites, lice, and fleas. Check their neck and body regularly for signs of pests. If you find any, treat them with natural or chemical pesticides made for chickens.
Use High-Quality Feed and Supplements
Ensure your chickens receive high-quality chicken feed designed for laying hens or dual-purpose birds. You can also supplement their diet with oyster shells for extra calcium to support strong egg production.
Keep an Eye on Their Health
Although Naked Neck Chickens are generally healthy, it’s always good to keep a lookout for any signs of illness. If you notice a drop in egg production, lethargy, or abnormal behavior, seek advice from a poultry vet as soon as possible.
Where to Buy Naked Neck Chickens
If you’re ready to add Naked Neck Chickens to your flock, there are several places where you can find these unique and hardy birds. Whether you’re looking for baby chicks or adult hens, here are some top options for purchasing:
Local Hatcheries
Many local hatcheries offer Naked Neck chicks for sale. These hatcheries usually provide healthy birds, and buying locally can reduce shipping costs. Be sure to check if the hatchery offers Naked Neck chickens or the Turken chicken breed, as they are often marketed under both names.
Online Poultry Suppliers
Several reputable online suppliers specialize in Naked Neck chickens. Websites like Meyer Hatchery, Cackle Hatchery, and Ideal Poultry often have a variety of Naked Neck chicks for sale. You can place your order online and have your chicks shipped directly to your location.
Poultry Shows and Events
If you’re interested in getting your hands on an exhibition bird, attending a poultry show or farming event can be a great way to find Naked Neck Chickens. These events often have breeders selling their birds, including Naked Neck chickens in a range of colors and sizes. This can also give you a chance to meet other poultry lovers and get expert advice.
Breeders and Specialty Farms
Look for local breeders who specialize in Naked Neck or Turken chickens. Many small farms or backyard poultry keepers breed these chickens and sell them directly. You can find breeders online through forums or social media groups dedicated to poultry lovers. Buying from a breeder can also give you more specific information about the birds’ history and temperament.
Farm Supply Stores
Some farm supply stores or feed stores offer live baby chicks for sale in the spring. It’s worth checking with local stores, as they might have Naked Neck chicks in stock, especially during chick season. Whether you’re looking to start a new flock or add some unique birds to your existing one, finding a reputable seller is key to getting healthy, happy Naked Neck chickens.
Tip: Before purchasing, always check for reviews and ask about the bird’s health history to ensure you’re getting a healthy Naked Neck Chicken.
FAQs
What are Naked Neck Chickens?
Naked Neck Chickens, also known as Turken chickens, are a unique breed characterized by their featherless necks, giving them a turkey-like appearance. Despite their name, they are fully feathered on the rest of their bodies. Originating from Transylvania, Romania, they are valued for both meat and egg production.
Are Naked Neck Chickens suitable for egg production?
Yes, Naked Neck Chickens are reliable layers, producing approximately 200 to 250 medium to large light brown eggs annually. They are consistent layers, making them a valuable addition to any flock.
Do Naked Neck Chickens have a friendly temperament?
Absolutely! Naked Neck Chickens are known for their docile and friendly nature. They are easy to handle, making them suitable for families and first-time chicken keepers.
Can Naked Neck Chickens thrive in various climates?
Yes, Naked Neck Chickens are adaptable to both hot and cold climates. Their unique feathering helps them regulate body temperature efficiently, though in icy conditions, providing additional shelter is advisable.
Where can I purchase Naked Neck Chickens?
Naked Neck Chickens can be purchased from reputable hatcheries like Cackle Hatchery, Ideal Poultry, and Meyer Hatchery. It’s important to buy from trusted sources to ensure the health and quality of the birds.
Conclusion
Naked Neck Chickens, or Turken chickens, are a unique and versatile breed known for their distinctive appearance and dual-purpose utility. They are reliable egg layers, producing 200 to 250 medium to large light brown eggs annually, and are also valued for their flavorful meat. Their friendly and docile temperament makes them suitable for families and first-time chicken keepers. Adaptable to both hot and cold climates, they are hardy birds that require minimal special care. Available from reputable hatcheries, Naked Neck Chickens are an excellent choice for those seeking a unique and productive addition to their flock.
