Baby Chicks: Egyptian Fayoumi

This pretty breed has a unique appearance. They hold their tails upright--nearly vertical--and have especially long, graceful necks. They are decent layers of smallish, cream or tinted eggs.

This ancient breed has its origin in the Nile Valley. They are relatively new to the US, and still quite rare here. They are also one of the most early maturing of chicken breeds: hens can begin laying eggs as early as 4-1/2 or 5 months! Fayoumis are known to be naturally resistant to Marek's Disease and to many other illnesses. However, they are normally fairly nervous in temperament, and can be feather pickers if they don't have enough room to roam. They can be territorial about their favorite nesting spots, and roosters are noisy. They are also fliers, so are not always the best choice for a backyard flock since they can and will clear most fences. With plenty of room, however, they can be a good choice for a small farm, since they are good foragers, economical eaters, independent, tough, aware of their surroundings and good at avoiding predators.

Related Articles:

• How to Identify Baby Chicks with Leg Bands
• Baby Chick Identification Photos
• Baby Chicks: Behind the Scenes

What to know about Marek's disease vaccine

We offer the Marek's Disease vaccine on the checkout page.  

Related articles: Should I get my birds vaccinated? and All about Marek's disease. 

Shipping Information:

• Due to Rhode Island state law, the minimum order of day-old chicks shipped to Rhode Island is 12.