Houdan
5-toed French heritage with massive crest.
Is the Houdan right for you? Take the Breed Matcher →About the Houdan
Houdans are striking birds known for their unique five toes and large, fluffy crests. They have a calm and friendly demeanor, making them excellent pets and great for family coops. Their distinctive appearance is complemented by a robust body and a feathered face, setting them apart from other breeds.
History
Originating in France, Houdans were developed in the 18th century and were mainly raised for both meat and egg production. They became popular in Europe and were introduced to the United States in the late 1800s, appreciated for their dual-purpose qualities.
Care tips
Houdans thrive in moderate climates but may require shelter during extreme weather due to their crests. They are known to be good mothers and are often broody, so provide nesting boxes for their natural behavior. Ensure ample space for foraging, as they enjoy roaming.
Color varieties
Fun facts
- Houdans are one of the few breeds with five toes on each foot.
- They are known for their calm and sociable temperament.
- Houdans are excellent mothers and often go broody.
- Their large crests can sometimes obstruct vision, so ensure safe surroundings.
What Houdans are like to keep
The Houdan is a French breed from the town of Houdan, near Paris. It has a full crest, a beard and muffs, and five toes on each foot. In the US it has a V-shaped comb. It is usually mottled black and white, and there is also a white variety. It was kept in France as a table bird and also lays white eggs.
Houdans are calm, gentle and friendly. They are not fast or flighty, and they do well in runs.
Who they suit
- Families wanting a calm, friendly breed.
- Keepers who love crested birds.
- Small flocks in runs.
They are not the best pick for free ranging where hawks are common, since crests limit vision.
Crest care
- Approach calmly, as the crest can limit their vision.
- Use waterers that keep crests and beards dry.
- Check for mites and lice under the crest and beard.
- Watch for flock mates pulling at crest feathers.
Eggs and climate
Houdans are fair layers of white eggs. They handle cold well, as the V comb is small. Wet crests can freeze, so keep them dry. They do fine in heat with shade.
Five toes and foot checks
The extra toe is normal for Houdans. Check feet now and then for injuries or swelling, and keep roosts at a sensible height, since heavier birds can hurt their feet jumping down. Houdans can also be low in the pecking order because of their calm nature, so keep an eye out for bullying.
Houdan vs Polish
The Polish has a bigger crest, four toes and is lighter. Houdans are heavier and calmer. See the Polish vs Houdan comparison for more.
Where to buy
Houdans are a conservation breed. Some hatcheries and breeders sell them.
Common questions about Houdans
Why do Houdans have five toes?
It is a normal breed trait.
Are Houdans good layers?
They are fair layers of white eggs.
Are Houdans friendly?
Yes. They are known as calm and gentle.
