Egyptian
Fayoumis are an ancient Chicken that originated in the Nile Valley. They have
are pretty and 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.
Egyptian
Fayoumis are 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.