Cuckoo Marans
The Chicken Coop Company
Cuckoo Marans Chicken
The Marans breed is now officially recognized in the Continental Class by the American Poultry Association. Developed in the mid-1800s in the town of Marans, France, the Cuckoo Marans is a dual-purpose bird known for laying deep chocolate brown eggs, although some eggs may feature speckled dark pigments. The shade of the brown eggs can vary throughout the hens' laying cycles, and while Vitamin K and calcium might help maintain the dark brown hue, they have limited effect.
The Cuckoo Marans is a fast-growing and relatively rare breed in the United States. Its distinctive black and white feather pattern resembles that of the Barred Plymouth Rock. The Chicken Coop Company’s Cuckoo Marans are typically a production type with minimal to no feathers on their legs.
Enthusiasts of this breed often appreciate the original French variant, the French Cuckoo Marans, for its similar characteristics.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is a Cuckoo Maran chicken?
Cuckoo Maran chickens are a distinctive and rare breed famous for their dark brown eggs. Originating from Marans, France, these chickens are known for their calm demeanor and ease of training. They typically lay between 4 to 6 eggs per week, contributing a unique and valuable addition to your egg collection.
What color eggs do Cuckoo Marans lay?
Cuckoo Marans are celebrated for their large, chocolate-colored eggs. This breed is known for laying the darkest brown eggs among all chicken breeds. They come in several varieties, including Black, Cuckoo, and French Cuckoo.
Are Cuckoo Maran chickens rare?
Yes, the French Silver Cuckoo Marans, along with other Marans varieties, are considered rare by poultry conservation organizations. Efforts in breeding and conservation are essential to preserve the health and continuity of this remarkable breed.
Are Cuckoo Marans friendly?
Cuckoo Maran chickens are generally known for their gentle and friendly disposition. In our experience, they exhibit a calm nature and lack of aggression. However, they might be less eager to be handled compared to some other breeds, preferring a more subdued interaction.
Cuckoo Marans Facts
- Poultry Show Class: Not applicable
- Weights: Hen–7 lbs
- Rooster—9 lbs
- Pullet—6 lbs
- Cockerel—7 lbs
- Purpose and Type: Primary production, Egg Laying & Pet/Secondary meat source
- Egg Shell Color: Dark Brown #3 to #6 shades
- Egg Production: 180+ per year (estimates only)
- Egg Size: Large
- Temperament: Active
- Gender Accuracy: 80-85%
- Fertility Percentage: 60-75%
- Broody: Variable
- Mating Ratio: 9 Females to 1 Male
- Roost Height: 2 to 4 feet
- Country of Origin: France
- APA: No
- TLC: No
- BREEDER FARM SOURCE: Poultry Breeding Farm has been developing our bloodline or strain of pure Cuckoo Maran’s since 1999.
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