Houdans were developed from Dorkings, Crevcoeurs and Polish breeds. They were named for the town of Houdan, where large numbers were bred for London and Paris markets. Mottled Houdan chicks have black backs and thighs to go along with white heads, wing tips, abdomens, chests and beards. They have V-shaped combs and clean, white and black legs and feet. The adult plumage, including crest, is a mixture of black and blue with a v-shaped white tip. They have a fifth toe that is separated from the others and curves upward.