These were raised extensively on the many small farms near the village of Houdan in France; and this locale and the lovely black plumage in which many feathers are tipped with V-shaped white spots give them their name. The flowing crest, V-shaped comb, muff of feathers at the throat, and the 5th toe give them an unusual appearance and make them a standout in any poultry show. Houdans are fine boned, juicy, white skinned flesh, and they are good layers of white eggs. Although in the crested breed family, they are larger than Polish. Baby chicks are patched with black and white all over, and the little crest, beard, and 5th toe help identify them at once.

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