George Orwell's famous statement "Four legs good, two legs bad" is facing a challenge in a strictly Orthodox neighbourhood of Jerusalem.

A four-legged chicken had caused consternation amongst Mea Shearim residents as rabbis debate whether such a creature is properly kosher.

According to rabbis, the 12-toed bird must be slaughtered before its kosher status can be determined.

If the chicken's legs are found to be bound together, it is not suitable for Friday night dinner.

But according to internet news site NTN24, the owner of the slaughter house where the bird was hatched may auction the unusual fowl instead.