Scots Dumpy
The Scots Dumpy is known for its distinctive stout body and short legs.
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The Scots Dumpy features a compact, stocky body with short legs and a broad head. This breed is known for its friendly disposition, making them suitable for backyard flocks. Their unique waddling gait and short stature distinguish them from other breeds. They can have feathered or non-feathered shanks, adding to their charm.
History
The Scots Dumpy is believed to have originated in Scotland, but its exact origins remain unclear. This breed has been around for centuries, potentially tracing back to the 18th century. It was primarily bred for ornamental purposes and local exhibition.
Care tips
Scots Dumpies are hardy and adaptable, thriving in various environments. While they are generally friendly, they appreciate space to roam. Regular interaction can help prevent shyness, and they may go broody if given the chance. Providing them with a secure coop is essential due to their somewhat clumsy movement.
Fun facts
- Scots Dumpies have a unique waddle due to their short legs.
- This breed is considered a rare heritage breed.
- They are known for their calm and friendly temperament.
- Some Scots Dumpies can have feathered legs, adding to their appeal.
Living with Scots Dumpies
The Scots Dumpy is an ancient Scottish breed known for its very short legs. Old names for it include Crawlers and Creepers. The body sits so low that the bird seems to waddle rather than walk. It comes in several colors, with cuckoo being common, and there are large fowl and bantam forms.
The short leg gene
Short legs in the Dumpy come from a gene that is lethal when a chick inherits two copies. When two short-legged birds are bred, part of the eggs will not hatch, and some chicks will have normal length legs. This is a normal part of breeding Dumpies, much as in the Japanese Bantam.
Day to day
Dumpies are calm, friendly birds that tame easily. They are not fast and do not fly much. Because they sit low, they get dirty quickly in mud. Keep the run dry and well drained.
Broody hens
Dumpy hens are known as good broodies and careful mothers. They lay tinted or cream eggs at a moderate rate.
Climate
From Scotland, they suit cool, damp weather, as long as they are not sitting in wet ground. Single combs should be watched in hard frost.
Rarity
Scots Dumpies are rare, in Britain and especially in the US. A few breeders keep them. If you have a small space and want a calm bird, see our small yard breeds for easier options.
Who they suit
Dumpies suit keepers who want a calm, unusual heritage bird and enjoy hatching their own chicks with a broody hen.
Common questions about Scots Dumpies
Why do Scots Dumpies have short legs?
A gene shortens the legs. It is lethal in a double dose, which lowers hatch rates.
Are Scots Dumpies good mothers?
Yes. They are known as good broodies.
Are Scots Dumpies rare?
Yes. They are hard to find outside Britain.
