The Onagadori is a rare breed of chicken known for its incredibly long tail feathers, which can grow up to 30 feet, putting even peacocks to shame.
What’s fascinating is that while Onagadori hens usually molt, the roosters never lose their tail feathers.
The rest of their plumage is shed only every three years.
This unusual molting pattern initially made the breed unpopular among European breeders.
It meant the birds kept their worn and damaged feathers for a long time instead of constantly renewing them.
To be considered a purebred Onagadori, a rooster must have a tail that is at least five feet long.
Under normal conditions, Onagadori tail feathers can grow about three feet per year, so it’s common to see roosters with tails several meters long.
Unfortunately, the breed is currently classified as endangered, with only about 250 birds in the care of 250 breeders worldwide.
One reason for their endangered status could be their low egg production, with hens laying only about 25 eggs per year.
The Onagadori is just one of the many fascinating chicken breeds we’ve discussed on Bugaga.
If you’re interested, check out some of the other extraordinary breeds.
These include the flamboyant all-black chicken and other stunning birds you might not have seen yet.
