Polish

The Polish is an ornamental breed instantly recognised by its large crest of feathers, which sits on a domed protrusion of the skull and can be so full that it partly covers the eyes. The crest is rounded in the females and more spiky and falling in the males. Some strains are bearded, with additional muffling around the face, while others are clean-faced. They are kept mainly for their striking appearance and are available both as large fowl and as bantams.

Because the crest can restrict their vision, Polish tend to be a little flighty and can be startled easily, so they are calmer in settled, predator-aware surroundings and benefit from companions and shelter. The crest also needs to be kept dry and clean, as it can become matted in wet or muddy conditions. They lay a fair number of white eggs and only rarely go broody, making them an ornamental garden bird first and a layer second.