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An exotic species of chicken often attracts attention on social media for its distinctive and impressive appearance.
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Dong Tao chickens, also known as Dragon chickens, are a rare and particular breed originating from the village of Đông Tảo in Vietnam.
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These chickens have a mysterious history and are full of legends dating back many centuries. In the past, people believed that these birds were bred for cockfighting because of their strong muscles.
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The most distinctive feature of these chickens are their thick, scaly legs, which look like tree trunks.
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This peculiar characteristic is the result of a genetic mutation and makes them unique among chicken breeds.
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The legs can be round or flat and vary in colors such as red, gray and black.
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In addition to their unique appearance, these birds are very valuable and are highly sought after on the markets precisely because they are rare.
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Impressive size: Dong Tao chickens are large birds, with adult males weighing up to 6kg and adult hens reaching 4.5kg.
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Despite their imposing appearance, Dong Tao chickens are known for their docile and calm temperament.
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They are sociable birds that adapt well to flock life and coexist peacefully with other animals.
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Dong Tao chickens have a low egg production, averaging between 60 and 70 per year. This fact, combined with the rarity of the breed, contributes to the high value of the eggs and meat.
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Additionally, “dragon chickens” do not make good incubators as their large legs can easily break eggs.
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Therefore, natural incubation is generally avoided and the eggs are hatched by other hens or in artificial incubators.
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Due to their rarity and unique characteristics, raising Dong Tao chickens requires special care and attention. Feeding, management and husbandry must be carefully monitored to ensure the health and welfare of the birds.
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Dong Tao chicken meat is prized for its tender texture, rich flavor and juiciness, making it a delicacy enjoyed by foodies and fans of exotic cuisine.
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The meat from Dragão chickens is often used in special dishes and served in upscale restaurants.
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And prices can be exorbitant: a single Dong Tao chicken can cost more than $2,000 (about 10,000 reais)!
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The popularity of Dong Tao chickens in other countries is increasing demand for their meat. Vietnamese restaurants around the world now serve dishes made from the meat of these birds.
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Dong Tao chickens are very important to the economy of rural communities in Vietnam. The breeding and sale of these birds generates income for many people living in these areas, contributing to the economic growth of the regions where they are raised.
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Cultural Symbol: Dong Tao chickens are more than just birds; they represent an important cultural symbol for Vietnam.
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Their history and unique characteristics have made them part of local folklore and they are often given as gifts on special occasions such as the Vietnamese Lunar New Year.
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Source: Terra

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.