Originally the Frisian poultry was "pencilled". They were largely self-supporting and well-spread over the country. Other colors appeared later on.

The dwarf form was created around 1930. It is unknown exactly in which way. In earlier days there has also been a Frisian chicken with short legs, probably this one is used for the breeding of the dwarf. The shortlegged animal pity enough is died out.

The first systematic descriptions of the Frisians are dated around 1900. Written sources mention about "pencilled chickens" for the first time in 1565 in a prohibition on the export of several domestic animals. Shortly after 1900, the situation of the breed decreased rapidly. Other breeds were imported because their production of larger eggs and more meat; important properties to the poor inhabitants at that time.

During World War I, the government arranged the availability of extra forage for so-called "beneficial"poultry breeds. Frisian poultry was, however, not mentioned on this list. In the twenties, the breed was at its lowest ebb. Then, fortunately, a number of affectionate persons had founded the "Frisian poultry club." They traced and collected the remaining animals.

During World War II, there was again an arrangement on extra forage, this time for so called exceptionally domestic animals. Probably for the Germans to save the old "Teutonic"breeds. Things like this helped the animals through these tough times. Nowadays, the breed is well-spread. It appears not only in Friesland but also in Holland, Belgium and Germany.

In Friesland we call this pencilled-colored "wheat" because its similarity with the wheat-ear.



"Submitted for educational purposes by Rog.
For any other use please contact The Gab Mgmt"