With their unique and eye-catching black plumage, black chicken breeds are truly among the most fascinating species of chicken. They’re a magnificent sight, drawing attention with their dark feathers’ iridescent sheen.
Whether you’re a novice or an expert chicken keeper, black chicken breeds are a compelling choice. They add visual appeal to your backyard and offer various benefits, including egg production, meat quality, and hardiness.
In this article, we’ll look at the best black chicken breeds, their qualities, origins, and reasons why they might be the perfect addition to your coop. Read on to explore the intriguing world of these lovely black chickens!
24 Black Chicken Breeds
1. Java
| Origin: | United States |
| Rooster Weight: | 8–9.5 lbs (3.6–4.3kg) |
| Hen Weight: | 6.5–7.5 lbs (3–3.4 kg) |
| Temperament: | Hardy, active, adaptable |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 150–180 eggs |
The Java chicken, known as the second oldest breed developed in America, has a rich history. The roots of this black chicken breed are believed to be traced back to the Far East, most likely on the island of Java.
These chickens are a standout, not just for their history but also for their dual-purpose nature, excelling in both egg and meat production.
In terms of appearance, Java chickens come in four distinct color varieties: black, mottled, white, and auburn.
Black Javas, in particular, are noted for their beetle-green sheen on their feathers, a unique characteristic that sets them apart from the other varieties.
Java hens are broody and make excellent mothers, laying 150 to 180 large brown eggs a year. They’re also friendly and calm, making them a good breed for children and a great addition to any backyard chicken flock.
2. Black Silkie
| Origin: | China |
| Height: | 8–14 in (20.3–35.5 cm) |
| Rooster Weight: | 2–3 lbs (1–1.3 kg) |
| Hen Weight: | 1.5–2 lbs (0.6–1 kg) |
| Temperament: | Gentle, docile, affectionate |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 100–120 eggs |
The black Silkie is a unique breed among black chicken breeds, known for its fluffy, fur-like feathers and friendly nature.
Originating from China, this breed is a favorite among chicken keepers due to their docile and affectionate temperament.
Black Silkie chickens are known for their unusual appearance. They have black skin and even have black bones, blue earlobes, and five toes instead of the usual four in chickens.
Their feathers, lacking the barbicels that usually lock feathers into place, have a fluffy, hair-like quality. While adorable, this trait also prevents them from flying and makes them prone to getting too cold when wet.
Black Silkies may be small, but they are surprisingly hardy and have a long life expectancy of about 7 to 9 years with proper care.
They lay small to medium-sized cream to tinted eggs, and while their egg production isn’t high, they’re known to be great mothers and are often used to hatch eggs from other breeds.
Watch this video to see these cute, fluffy chickens in action:
3. Pekin
| Origin: | United States |
| Height: | 7.8–11.8 in (20–30 cm) |
| Rooster Weight: | 7–10 lbs (3.1–4.5 kg) |
| Hen Weight: | 6–8 lbs (2.7–3.6 kg) |
| Temperament: | Friendly, curious, calm |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 200–250 eggs |
The Pekin chicken is a charming breed known for its round, fluffy body. Their feathers, which come in a variety of colors, including black, are soft and abundant, giving them a unique, cuddly appearance.
This breed is not just about looks, though. They are known for their friendly and docile nature, making them an excellent choice for families, especially those with children.
They are curious creatures, and with a bit of patience and care, they can form strong bonds with their keepers. Moreover, they are quite hardy, adapting well to various climates.
If you’re looking to add black chickens to your flock that are as friendly as they are attractive, Pekin chickens, particularly black Pekins, could be a great choice.
4. Breda
| Origin: | Netherlands |
| Rooster Weight: | 6.5–7 lbs (3–3.1 kg) |
| Hen Weight: | 5–6 lbs (2.2–2.7 kg) |
| Temperament: | Bold, confident, docile |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 150–180 eggs |
Another black chicken breed is the Breda chicken, which is recognized as the national bird of the Netherlands. Known for their comb-free head and feathered feet, Bredas are quite the sight.
In addition to their good looks, there are other benefits to raising Breda chickens. They serve several purposes, as they both produce high-quality meat and up to 180 white eggs every year.
Moreover, they’re known for their friendly and docile temperament, making them great backyard companions.
Sadly, this beautiful breed is at risk of extinction. They’re rare outside of the Netherlands, but efforts are being made to increase their numbers.
5. Araucana
| Origin: | Chile |
| Rooster Weight: | 6–7 lbs (2.7–3.2 kg) |
| Hen Weight: | 4.8–6 lbs (2.2–2.7 kg) |
| Temperament: | Independent, alert, inquisitive |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 150–250 eggs |
A unique black chicken breed hailing from Chile, the Araucana is known for its blue-shelled eggs, a rare trait among chicken breeds.
This breed is often confused with the Ameraucana and Easter Egger, both of which also lay colorful eggs but are actually hybrids of the Araucana.
The Araucana is easily identifiable by its distinctive features, such as its erect posture and absence of a tail, which make it reminiscent of wild game birds.
Despite its smaller size, this chicken is a prolific layer, producing approximately 250 blue or green eggs per year.
In terms of temperament, Araucanas can vary. Some owners say their chickens are friendly, while others are flighty and nervous. They tend to go broody frequently and easily, enjoying raising their own chicks.
Meanwhile, if you are interested in knowing more about other chickens that lay blue eggs, like Auracanas, check out this article.
6. Ancona Chicken
| Origin: | Italy |
| Height: | 26–30 in (66–76.2 cm) |
| Rooster Weight: | 5.5–6 lbs (2.5–2.8 kg) |
| Hen Weight: | 4–4.6 lbs (1.8–2.1 kg) |
| Temperament: | Active, mischievous, agile |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 180–220 eggs |
The Ancona, a black chicken breed with a distinctive white-tipped feather pattern, is a lively and hardy chicken that originated near the city of Ancona, Italy.
These black chickens are known for their striking beauty and have unique plumage, with the whites becoming more pronounced with each molt, creating a beautiful contrast.
Anconas are excellent layers, producing a large number of white eggs. They lay around 220 eggs throughout the year, even during the colder months. If you’re looking for a reliable source of eggs, then this is the breed for you.
Furthermore, these chickens are active and love to forage, making them economical as they require less feed. They are also known to be good flyers, which can be an advantage in areas with predators.
Despite their active nature, they can develop a trusting relationship with their keepers if raised in a caring environment.
7. H’Mong
| Origin: | Vietnam |
| Rooster Weight: | 4.4–6.6 lbs (2–3 kg) |
| Hen Weight: | 3.3–4.4 lbs (1.5–2 kg) |
| Temperament: | Feisty, resilient, resourceful |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 100–200 eggs |
A rare chicken breed from the northwestern mountainous provinces of Vietnam, the H’Mong chicken is a standout in the world of black chicken breeds.
These chickens are completely black, with black skin, meat, and bones—a trait they share with just a handful of other black chicken breeds.
H’Mong chickens are born with completely black feathers, which start to develop color around the age of five months. However, 75% of the females retain their solid black or solid blue color.
These chickens are not only known for their striking appearance but also for their medicinal properties. They are often consumed as a delicacy and a common sight in restaurants in Hanoi, Vietnam.
Interestingly, H’Mong chickens are also known for their aggressive nature. Roosters can fight among themselves to establish dominance, and the fighting only stops when a flock leader is established.
Despite this, their rare qualities and flavorful meat make them highly sought after.
8. Minorca
| Origin: | Spain |
| Rooster Weight: | 7–9 lbs (3.2–4.1 kg) |
| Hen Weight: | 6–8 lbs (2.7–3.6 kg) |
| Temperament: | Active, independent, alert |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 120–200 eggs |
Hailing from Spain, the Minorca chicken is a true gem among poultry enthusiasts. Known for their sleek black feathers that shimmer with a greenish glow under the sun, these chickens are a captivating sight.
They have large combs, wattles, and earlobes. Because of this, they are prone to frostbite and find winters challenging.
Aside from being attractive, Minorcas are also excellent layers. In terms of egg size and color, they are lined up as one of the best chicken breeds that lay large white eggs, which are highly sought after.
However, their egg production has slowed over time due to selective breeding focusing on their appearance.
Moreover, these fowl are renowned for their toughness. They are also quick and alert, making them excellent free rangers. They love to forage for their food, showcasing their independent and adventurous nature.
Despite their love for warm climates, they can adapt to cooler temperatures with proper care. Furthermore, Minorcas are warm and friendly. They are comfortable around people, adding a lively presence to any backyard.
9. Sumatra
| Origin: | Indonesia |
| Rooster Weight: | 4.8–6 lbs (2.2–2.7 kg) |
| Hen Weight: | 3.3–4.4 lbs (1.5–2 kg) |
| Temperament: | Flighty, vigilant, skittish |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 80–120 eggs |
The Sumatra chicken, with its beautiful iridescent black feathers, is a sight to behold. They are known for their distinctive long, flowing tail feathers and multiple spurs, a feature unique to only a few chicken breeds.
Despite their exotic appearance, Sumatras are small, with roosters weighing around 6 pounds and hens just about 4 pounds. They lay small white eggs, with a hen producing up to 120 eggs a year.
While they can adapt to various climates, they thrive best in warm environments similar to their original Indonesian habitat.
Their temperament is as unique as their appearance. They are skittish and prefer not to be handled, maintaining their wild instincts.
They are alert and excellent foragers, making them ideal for free-range settings. However, they can be aggressive, especially during the breeding season, and care should be taken when housing them with other breeds.
10. Valdarno
| Origin: | Italy |
| Rooster Weight: | 5.5–6.1 lbs (2.5–2.8 kg) |
| Hen Weight: | 4.4–5 lbs (2–2.3 kg) |
| Temperament: | Active, sociable, tolerant |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 180–200 eggs |
The Valdarno chicken, a black breed native to Tuscany, Italy, is a dual-purpose chicken known for its high-quality meat and good egg production.
They are good layers, producing around 180 to 200 white eggs per year, each weighing about 55 grams. Despite their good egg production, Valdarno hens rarely go broody.
Light, elegant, and traditional best describe the appearance of this chicken, which is typical of Mediterranean breeds.
They are solid black chickens with plumage that give off a slightly dark green glow when exposed to sunlight.
I’ve actually had the pleasure of caring for Valdarno chickens, and their striking black plumage and robust nature are just the tip of the iceberg.
They can adapt to various climates, which is incredible. Also, their eggs are outstanding, and their meat is tasty.
Not only has raising Valdarnos enriched my farm, but it has also helped me better appreciate the diversity and joy of raising black chicken breeds.
11. La Fleche
| Origin: | France |
| Rooster Weight: | 7.7–8.8 lbs (3.5–4 kg) |
| Hen Weight: | 6.6–7.7 lbs (3–3.5 kg) |
| Temperament: | Lively, spirited, active |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 140–220 eggs |
Sometimes called the Devil Bird, the La Fleche is a black chicken breed developed in the French town of La Fleche.
Named for their V-shaped comb, which resembles the horns of a devil, this breed is distinguished by their all-black plumage and white earlobes.
Despite their devilish nickname, La Fleche chickens are neither aggressive nor overly friendly. They are independent chickens that enjoy foraging and are excellent fliers, often preferring to roost in trees.
Although they take longer to reach maturity, La Fleche chickens are highly sought-after for their prolific egg production and tasty meat.
They are not known to be broody and lay up to 220 white eggs every year. Moreover, their meat has been praised for being tender, delicate, and juicy, making them a popular choice as table meat.
Unfortunately, La Fleche chickens are currently listed as critical by the Livestock Conservancy. Efforts are being made to increase their numbers and preserve this unique and historic breed.
12. Black Langshan
| Origin: | China |
| Rooster Weight: | 6.6–10 lbs (3–4.5 kg) |
| Hen Weight: | 5.5–7.7 lbs (2.5–3.5 kg) |
| Temperament: | Gentle, reserved, calm |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 150–200 eggs |
The black Langshan chicken is a Chinese breed distinguished by its white skin and black feathers. One of the oldest breeds in existence, they got their name from the Langshan Mountains, where they were first discovered.
Black Langshans are hardy and known for their calm and friendly disposition. They are excellent layers and good foragers. Their eggs are large and brown, sometimes with a purplish tint.
They are a versatile chicken breed that can be raised on any type of land. Moreover, these hardy chickens develop quickly and hold up well to confinement.
Despite being a rare breed, their numbers are slowly but steadily increasing, making them a valuable addition to any flock.
13. Svart Hona
| Origin: | Sweden |
| Rooster Weight: | 6–7 lbs (2.7–3.1 kg) |
| Hen Weight: | 5–6 lbs (2.2–2.7 kg) |
| Temperament: | Cautious, vigorous, intelligent |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 200–250 eggs |
Rare and fascinating, the Svart Hona or Swedish Black Hen is a black chicken breed from Sweden.
Svart Hona chickens are all-black in appearance, which extends to their internal organs, bones, and flesh due to a gene mutation called fibromelanosis.
Svart Honas are small but sturdy, with hens weighing around 5 pounds and cocks up to 7 pounds. They are well-adapted to cold climates, making them a resilient choice for various environments.
Despite their striking appearance, they are not just ornamental birds. They are decent egg layers, producing around 250 creamy white eggs annually.
These chickens are intelligent and assertive, often ranking high in the pecking order. They are friendly but not overly docile, showing affection when handled frequently from a young age.
14. Kadaknath
| Origin: | India |
| Rooster Weight: | 4–4.4 lbs (1.8–2 kg) |
| Hen Weight: | 2.6–3.3 lbs (1.2–1.5 kg) |
| Temperament: | Hardy, independent, active |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 120–140 eggs |
While most other chickens are only black on the outside, the Kadaknath chicken, a rare breed from India, is known for its black meat, which is prized for its health benefits.
It is said that their meat is lean, high in protein, and low in cholesterol, making them a healthy alternative. Despite their fierce appearance, Kadaknath chickens are known to be calm and gentle.
These chickens are quite hardy and can survive harsh conditions, making them a popular choice for small-scale farmers.
Originating from the forests of Madhya Pradesh, Kadaknath chickens have been a part of local tribes’ lives for centuries. They are not just a source of meat and eggs but also play a significant role in religious ceremonies.
The breed has three variants: Jet Black, Penciled, and Golden Kadaknath. All variants are black, but the Penciled and Golden Kadaknath have white and gold feathers around their necks, respectively.
15. Crevecoeur
| Origin: | Normandy |
| Rooster Weight: | 6.6–7.7 lbs (3–3.5 kg) |
| Hen Weight: | 5.5–6.6 lbs (2.5–3 kg) |
| Temperament: | Docile, calm |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 120–150 eggs |
The Crevecoeur chicken is a black chicken breed rich in history. The breed’s name, which translates to broken heart, is a nod to its origins dating back to the 12th century.
Crevecoeur chickens are solid black with compact bodies and short legs. Males weigh around 7 pounds, while females are slightly lighter at 6 pounds.
These fowls are known for their unique V-shaped comb and striking beards. Moreover, as one of the chickens that have afros for crests, they are a sight to behold.
Not only is this breed lovely to look at, but their fine, white meat is delicious, and they lay up to 150 eggs every year.
The meat of Crevecoeurs is especially prominent in the breast. The leg meat, however, can be quite dark, almost duck-like in color.
Despite their delicate appearance, Crevecoeur chickens are robust and can adapt to various climates. They do well in confinement and are best suited to small areas.
16. Ameraucana
| Origin: | Chile |
| Height: | 16–18 in (40.6–45.7 cm) |
| Rooster Weight: | 5.5–6.4 lbs (2.5–2.9 kg) |
| Hen Weight: | 4.4–5.5 lbs (2–2.5 kg) |
| Temperament: | Friendly, confident, curious |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 150–200 eggs |
The Ameraucana chicken is a rare black chicken breed that first appeared in the 1970s. Aside from the black variant, they are available in a wide range of colors, including white, blue, and wheaten.
Having spent years immersed in the world of poultry, visiting a local farm sparked my interest in black chicken breeds, especially Ameraucanas.
I was amazed by their beautiful plumage and thrilled when I saw their bright, colorful eggs.
These chickens stand out from the rest of the flock thanks to their unique beards and muffs, which give them a cuddly, fluffy appearance.
Although they don’t necessarily enjoy being picked up and cuddled, these adorable little creatures are actually quite gentle and friendly.
Moreover, these chickens are known for their light blue eggs and are moderately good layers, producing about 3 to 4 medium-sized eggs per week.
Ameraucanas are wonderful additions to any flock, not just for their beautiful plumage but also for their colorful eggs.
17. Black Jersey Giant
| Origin: | United States |
| Height: | 16–26 in (40.6–66 cm) |
| Rooster Weight: | 13–15 lbs (5.9–6.8 kg) |
| Hen Weight: | 10–11 lbs (4.5–5 kg) |
| Temperament: | Friendly, gentle, calm, |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 150–200 eggs |
The black Jersey Giant chicken, as the name suggests, is a giant among chicken breeds. Originating from New Jersey, this black chicken breed is known as the largest chicken in the world.
Despite their large stature, they are gentle and calm, making them an excellent addition to any flock. They are also not flighty, so they are generally easy to handle.
These chickens are not just large; they are also robust and healthy. They are excellent egg layers, producing between 150 and 200 eggs per year. The eggs are light to medium brown and larger than average.
However, Jersey Giant hens often accidentally crack the eggshells with their weight, so it’s essential to remove eggs as soon as possible.
Furthermore, their large size makes them an economical choice for both commercial poultry farms and small-scale roasters.
But it takes them longer to develop; roosters won’t weigh 10 pounds until they’re at least six months old.
18. Black Cochin
| Origin: | China |
| Height: | 15–21 in (38.1–53.3 cm) |
| Rooster Weight: | 8–13 lbs (3.6–5.9 kg) |
| Hen Weight: | 7–11 lbs (3.2–5 kg) |
| Temperament: | Docile, affectionate |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 150–180 eggs |
The black Cochin chicken was developed in China for meat and egg production, but its feathered feet and friendly nature quickly won it a fan base in the Western world.
They are one of the largest chicken breeds around, with standard sizes weighing up to 13 pounds. Moreover, they are adorned with an abundance of fancy feathers, even down to their toes.
Despite the size of these large chickens, they are gentle giants, easy to handle, and make perfect pets for families with children.
Moreover, these fowl have thick feathers and a sturdy build, making them ideal for colder environments.
They thrive in the comfort of their own homes and are happiest when confined to a small area, making them perfect for those who want a pet for their backyard.
Further, there is no need to worry about them wandering off, as they are not skilled flyers.
19. Ayam Cemani
| Origin: | Indonesia |
| Rooster Weight: | 4.4–5.5 lbs (2–2.5 kg) |
| Hen Weight: | 3.3–4.4 lbs (1.5–2 kg) |
| Temperament: | Alert, friendly, gentle |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 80–100 eggs |
The Ayam Cemani chicken is an all-black chicken breed with a striking appearance that is native to Indonesia.
Not only are their feathers black, but their skin, comb, wattles, beak, tongue, meat, and even internal organs are also black. Nevertheless, they do not lay black eggs.
They may look intimidating, but these chickens are actually quite friendly, intelligent, and easy to handle. They are also tough chickens, able to withstand both cold and hot climates.
However, if you’re looking for chickens that lay many eggs, Ayam Cemanis might not be the best choice.
They lay around 80 eggs per year, which is roughly one egg per week, and their laying schedule can be quite unpredictable.
Further, it is a rare breed, and owning one can be quite costly. But for those who appreciate their unique beauty and don’t mind their low egg production, this black chicken breed can be a fascinating addition to their flock.
20. Black Shumen
| Origin: | Bulgaria |
| Rooster Weight: | 4.4–5.5 lbs (2–2.5 kg) |
| Hen Weight: | 3.3–4 lbs (1.5–1.8 kg) |
| Temperament: | Hardy, independent, active |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 150–180 eggs |
A remarkable addition to any backyard chicken flock is the Black Shumen chicken, a breed of black chicken that originated in the Shumen region of Bulgaria.
This breed, known for its jet-black feathers and white skin, is the result of crossbreeding local black hens with Minorca roosters.
Hence, these chickens exhibit not only Mediterranean qualities, such as huge combs and wattles, but also characteristics of primitive breeds, such as toughness in various habitat conditions and being modest eaters.
Despite their striking resemblance to the black Minorca, they are distinguishable by their red earlobes and smaller body size.
Moreover, they are good layers, producing around 150 to 160 white eggs per year. They also rarely go broody.
21. White Crested Black Polish Chicken
| Origin: | Netherlands |
| Height: | 12–18 in (30.4–45.7 cm) |
| Rooster Weight: | 5–6 lbs (2.2–2.7 kg) |
| Hen Weight: | 4.5–5.5 lbs (2–2.5 kg) |
| Temperament: | Friendly, inquisitive, docile |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 100–150 eggs |
The White-crested Black Polish chicken, a type of black chicken, is one of the most popular ornamental poultry breeds due to their beautiful crest of feathers, which looks like a top hat.
Their shiny black body plumage and white crests that have a hint of black create a stunning contrast.
These chickens are friendly and easy to handle. They are docile chickens that enjoy being around humans and other chickens.
However, they may need extra care due to their crests, which can block their vision and easily get dirty. Regular grooming and cleaning of their crests are essential to prevent potential health issues.
They are adaptable to various climates but are sensitive to extreme heat. Hence, it’s important to give them access to enough shade, fresh water, and proper ventilation.
22. Black Orpington
| Origin: | England |
| Height: | 12–16 in (30.4–40.6 cm) |
| Rooster Weight: | 8–10 lbs (3.6–4.5 kg) |
| Hen Weight: | 6–8 lbs (2.7–3.6 kg) |
| Temperament: | Friendly, gentle, docile |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 200–280 eggs |
The black Orpington chicken is a breed that stands out for its impressive size, glossy black feathers, and friendly demeanor.
They are a dual-purpose breed known for their egg-laying abilities and substantial size, making them excellent chickens to raise for meat.
They are reliable layers, consistently producing between 200 and 280 eggs throughout the year, even during the colder months. They are also known to be quite broody, often eager to sit on and hatch their eggs.
These chickens are hardy, using their thick plumage to withstand cold temperatures. However, they can struggle in hotter climates due to their dense feathers.
In terms of care, black Orpingtons are not overly demanding. They require a balanced diet, plenty of space to roam, and a secure coop to protect them from predators.
However, they are not particularly good at foraging, so their diet needs to be monitored to prevent obesity.
23. Black Australorp
| Origin: | Australia |
| Height: | 26–27.5 in (66–70 cm) |
| Rooster Weight: | 6–8 lbs (2.7–3.6 kg) |
| Hen Weight: | 5–7 lbs (2.2–3.1 kg) |
| Temperament: | Active, intelligent, friendly |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 250–300 eggs |
Another popular breed of chicken with black feathers is the black Australorp. Originating from Australia in the early 1900s, this breed was developed from English Black Orpingtons.
Recognized by the American Poultry Association (APA) as a standard breed in 1929, they’re now one of the most prolific layer breeds.
Black Australorp chickens are large, heavy, and strikingly beautiful with their shiny black feathers.
What’s more, they are reliable, low-maintenance, and excellent egg layers. A healthy hen can lay about 250 to 300 eggs in a year.
Furthermore, their friendly and docile temperament makes them an ideal choice for those who are new to keeping chickens.
They can also adapt to different climates and are immune to most common poultry diseases, which is always a plus.
24. Fibro Easter Egger
| Rooster Weight: | 5–6 lbs (2.2–2.7 kg) |
| Hen Weight: | 4–5 lbs (1.8–2.2 kg) |
| Temperament: | Calm, friendly, intelligent |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 200–220 eggs |
The Fibro Easter Egger is a unique addition to the world of black chicken breeds. The most noticeable thing about these chickens is their color, which sets them apart from other chicken breeds.
Like Ayam Cemanis, these hybrid chickens are known for their hyperpigmentation, which is a result of fibromelanosis. This gives them a completely black appearance, including their feathers, skin, and lobes.
They are not only known for their striking appearance but also for their egg-laying capabilities.
Fibro Easter Eggers lay around four to five eggs weekly, with the eggs coming in a variety of colors, including blue, green, brown, and pink. This makes them a colorful addition to any egg basket.
Personality-wise, these hens have a stellar reputation for being gentle and pleasant. They like to roam around and forage, so giving them lots of room to do so is ideal.
How to Choose From the Black Chicken Breeds
Choosing from the wide array of black chicken breeds can be an exciting yet challenging task. Each breed comes with its own unique characteristics, so it’s essential to consider your specific needs and preferences.
Firstly, consider the purpose or goal. If you’re looking for a dual-purpose breed, the Black Australorp or Jersey Giant could be a great choice. They’re known for their large size and excellent egg-laying capabilities.
On the other hand, if you’re interested in a breed for its unique appearance, the Ayam Cemani or the Silkie, with their entirely black features, could be the perfect addition to your flock.
Moreover, consider the breed’s temperament. If you have a family with young children, docile and friendly breeds like the Black Orpington, Java, and Pekin chicken would be ideal.
These breeds are known for their calm nature and adaptability to backyard living.
Lastly, consider the breed’s adaptability to your local climate. Breeds like the Minorca chicken are known for their hardiness in warmer climates, while the Black Cochin is known for its ability to withstand colder temperatures.
Remember, each black chicken breed has its own unique charm and characteristics.
Whether you’re looking for a breed with high egg production, solid black plumage, or a friendly temperament, there’s a black chicken breed out there that’s perfect for your backyard flock.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Most Common Black Chicken?
The most common black chicken breed is the Australorp. Their black plumage is a sight to behold, shining in different hues under sunlight.
It is a popular choice among backyard chicken keepers and small-scale poultry farmers due to its desirable traits, including good egg-laying abilities, a calm temperament, and suitability for various climates.
What Color Egg Does a Black Chicken Lay?
Depending on the breed, black chickens produce eggs that are either white, cream, blue, or brown. The eggshell color is determined solely by the breed’s genetics and has nothing to do with their feather color.
So, if you’re keeping black chickens in your backyard and expecting black eggs, you might be in for a surprise.
Does Black Chicken Taste Different?
Chickens with black feathers and yellow or white skin have the same texture and flavor as other chickens. However, chickens with black skin are a completely different story.
Black-skinned chicken breeds like the Ayam Cemanis and Silkies are known for their unique, dark meat. Some people who have tried it say that black chicken meat is more flavorful and juicy than ordinary chicken.
It is also considered healthier and an excellent source of many essential nutrients, including B vitamins, calcium, phosphorus, iron, and protein. Moreover, its fat level is lower than that of other chicken breeds.
Did this guide help you in your quest to find the perfect black chicken breed? Feel free to share your thoughts and ask your questions about black chickens in the comment section below.
