Scots Dumpy

The Scots Dumpy is an old Scottish chicken breed defined by its extremely short legs and low, solid body. It has been known by names such as Dumpy, Bakie, Crawler, or Creeper, all pointing to the same short-legged appearance. Large fowl and bantam forms exist, with cuckoo, black, white, and other colors seen according to registry and line. The body is broad and deep, so a mature bird looks much heavier than its height suggests. Historically it was a farmyard fowl, valued for hardiness, meat, eggs, and broodiness in a northern climate.

The short-leg trait needs informed breeding because the creeper gene is associated with embryo loss when inherited in double dose. Responsible breeders plan matings with this in mind and may hatch both short-legged show-type birds and longer-legged offspring. In everyday housing, Scots Dumpies benefit from low perches, easy nest access, and ground that does not stay muddy under the breast. They are not fast movers, so secure fencing and predator protection matter. People buying them should choose active birds with sound movement rather than selecting only for the lowest stance.

Colors: Barred, Birchen, Black, Blue, Brown, Buff, Columbian, Crele, Cuckoo, Duckwing, Gold, Gold Laced, Laced, Lavender, Mille Fleur, Mottled, Partridge, Penciled, Porcelain, Red, Silver, Silver Laced, Spangled, Splash, Wheaten, White