Sultan

The Sultan is a very old, ornamental breed of chicken which originated in Southeastern Europe where they were once favored by the rulers of Turkey. Sultans came from Istanbul to England in the 1850s. Today the breed is very rare — listed as critical by the Livestock Conservancy. 

This extremely rare breed has a full list of distinguishing characteristics including a top crest, muff, beard, vulture hocks, fully-feathered shanks and feet, and a fifth toe. Sultan chickens have a dramatic appearance with their pure white feathering and contrasting bright red V-comb and wattles. Males sport a larger crest and tail, and females have a dainty, rounded crest and shorter tails.

Sultans are docile birds and have a sweet disposition. Sultan hens are white egg layers and are non-setters.

Limited quantities available. Straight run (unsexed) only at this time.