Meet the chicken Dong Tao and its giant feet

At first glance, the feet of these chickens look strange - and perhaps even disgusting - but in Vietnam they are a delicacy that few people have access to. In the past, these animals were consumed only by the nobility and in sacred rituals, but nowadays it is enough to have money to try this exotic dish.

1

Dong Tao hens can weigh up to 6 pounds as adults, and their legs can be as thick as a wrist. The roosters are usually colorful while the chickens are white.

High demand

These animals are considered culinary delicacies because they have a very tasty meat. Combining high demand and a difficulty in creation, we have exorbitant prices. A pound of meat costs an average of $ 18 a pound, depending on the cut. Already in the case of live animals, the values ​​are even higher, and the pound of the most valued, with thick and strong legs, can sell for $ 280 (approximately 950 reais)!

2

Demand is soaring during Tet, the Vietnamese New Year, so much so that in 2013 a farmer in Ho Chi Minh City refused to sell a couple of chickens for $ 2, 500 during the holiday season. Dong Tao meat really must be very tasty.

Creation

Besides the demand of the population, raising this species is not the simplest task. They are very sensitive to temperature variations and tend to lay fewer eggs than an average chicken. A large space is also needed for quiet living; otherwise, fights are frequent.

3

Their large feet are valued, but they hinder the reproduction of animals, so much so that they need help from breeders so that they can hatch eggs efficiently.

4

A chick takes almost 1 year to reach 4 pounds, on average, size that allows its sale. Even so, they are not slaughtered quickly, as over time their meat tends to become more tasty and expensive.

5th

Beauty contest

The Dong Tao are really part of Vietnamese culture, because, in addition to culinary appreciation, the most beautiful animals participate in beauty contests that take place annually.