The Houdan hen is an ancient breed known for its large white eggs and high quality meat. It is also known as Poule de Houdan in French and was formerly known as the Norman bird.
Houdan chicken originated in France and was known before 1700. It was widely grown on many small farms near the village of Houdan in France.
Houdan chickens bear the name of their place of origin, the commune of Houdan, in the Yvelines department to the west of Paris. The breed was once prized in France for its large eggs and excellent quality white meat. But now they are considered an ornamental breed.
It is not known exactly when and how this breed of chickens was bred. The Houdan hen is possibly a cross between the Polish or Dorking hen and the Crevecoeur hen, as well as native five-toed hens. Initially, it was created as an all-purpose, dual-purpose breed.
Houdan chicken was first imported to North America in 1865 and to England in 1850. In 1874, it was included in the American Poultry Association’s Standard of Excellence.
A Bantam version of this breed of chicken is also available. The Houdan chicken is now listed as “Watch” on the Conservation Priority List for US Livestock Breeds. Below are the characteristics, behavior and complete profile of the Houdan chicken breed.
Physical Characteristics of Houdan Chicken
The Houdan chicken is a large, heavy-looking breed that is an excellent dual-purpose bird suitable for both meat and egg production. The large comb, the fifth finger and the V-shaped comb are the main characteristics of the Houdan chicken.
It is a unique breed with 5 toes and a beard. The American Poultry Association recognizes two varieties of Houdan chicken; White and variegated variety.
Both varieties have standard plumage and white skin. Beard, comb, comb, five fingers, etc. make it very easy to identify this breed of chicken, even if it is chickens.
Wudang chickens have a small red V-shaped comb that rests on top of the comb. They have white earlobes which are hidden under their beard and comb. Their earrings are also red, as is the comb.
The rectangular bodies of the udans rest on fairly short feet. Houdan “White” chicken thighs are firm, pinkish-white in color. And the mottled variety has pinkish-white legs with black spots.
Their legs are featherless. Hoodans are one of the best breeds of ornamental chickens, which are also excellent dual-purpose birds.
Houdan chicks are also easily distinguished from other chicks by their unique appearance. Chickens often walk with a hopping gait due to their fifth toe.
A standard Udan rooster weighs about 2.5-3 kg, and chickens about 2-2.5 kg. And Khudan bantam roosters weigh about 0.9 kg, and chickens – about 0.8 kg. Photo courtesy of BackYardChickens.
Behaviour/Temperament
The Houdan chicken was originally a dual-purpose breed, intended for both meat and egg production. But these days they are popular as an ornamental breed of chickens.
They are calm and serene birds that lay large white eggs. Chickens aren’t very good babysitters, but tend to be caring. Because they are heavy, they tend to break eggs.
Houdan chicken is an excellent choice for small farmers and it is very safe for children. This is an exceptionally gentle breed that also does well indoors.
The hens have a very good feed to egg ratio and are also excellent winter laying hens. Since the Houdan chicken has a large comb and a large beard, it needs a special drinker.
Because their beards and big combs get wet and dirty if they use ordinary drinkers. Thus, they require very little water in the bowl.
Wudangs can make excellent pets and are easy to handle if raised from a young age. The average life expectancy of Houdan chickens is 7-8 years. See the full breed profile below.
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| Breed name | Houdan |
| another name | Poule de Houdan in French, formerly known as Norman game |
| Purpose of the breed | Originally a dual purpose breed, but now grown as an ornamental breed. |
| Broad temperament | Friendly, calm, obedient, easy to manage, tolerates childbirth well, safe for children |
| Breed size | big |
| sullen instinct | Rarely |
| comb | v-shaped |
| climatic tolerance | All climates |
| egg color | White |
| Egg size | medium wide |
| Egg performance | medium |
| feathered feet | Not |
| scarcity | general |
| Varieties | Two varieties are recognized by the American Poultry Association; variegated and white |
| Native country | France |
