French Black Marans

French Black Marans Chicken

The rich, black feathers that give the French Black Marans its name also give it a distinct difference from its sister Marans chickens. Like the other Marans chickens, this breed produces dark brown eggs other chickens cannot duplicate. Also, like the other Marans breeds, it originates from the Marans region of France, and a poultry import ban limited the number of Marans chickens in the U.S., making it a rare breed. Produces a limited number of these fine black chickens each year. Order yours in advance to add this rare chicken to your flock.

Ideal for:

• Egg Collectors: If you are looking for chickens that will produce eggs with a unique, dark color and rich flavor, the French Black Marans is an ideal choice. Their eggs are prized for their beauty and quality.
  
  
• Small Farms & Homesteads: French Black Marans are perfect for small farms or homesteads where both meat and eggs are needed. Their calm demeanor and hardiness make them excellent for a wide range of environments.
  
  
• Heritage Poultry Enthusiasts: This breed, like many Marans, has a long history and is often chosen by those interested in preserving traditional or heritage breeds. Its fascinating origin and contribution to egg production make it a great addition to any poultry collection.
  
  

Care Requirements:

• Space: French Black Marans enjoy having space to roam. While they can adapt to smaller enclosures, they thrive best in free-range environments where they can forage and explore. A large run or pen with plenty of room to move around is ideal.
  
  
• Feeding: They require a well-balanced diet of high-quality poultry feed, supplemented with treats like grains, vegetables, and mealworms. Access to fresh water should always be provided to maintain their health.
  
  
• Shelter: French Black Marans need a clean, secure coop with good ventilation and protection from predators. A comfortable roosting area and soft bedding will keep them cozy and healthy, particularly in colder months.

What color eggs do French Black Marans lay?
The rich, black feathers that give the French Black Marans its name also give it a distinct difference from its sister Marans chickens. Like the other Marans chickens, this breed produces dark brown eggs other chickens cannot duplicate.

Why are Marans so expensive?
Marans hens are bred by selecting the hens that produce the most pigment over the longest period of time. This makes the breeding process very expensive, and in turn, makes Marans chickens and eggs expensive. Additionally, the dark coloration of the egg is tied to the genetics of the bird.

Are Black Marans good chickens?
Marans chickens are famous for laying incredibly dark brown eggs. These birds are friendly, do well both in confinement and on the range, and they get along great in mixed-breed flocks. They have much to offer for backyards and barnyards alike.

What chicken lays purple eggs?
If you're searching for eggs that are speckled and pretty as a picture, look no further than the Heritage Welsummers. These delightful chickens lay eggs in various shades of brown, sometimes appearing light purple with their intricate speckling pattern over the top.

How long do Marans live? 
Cuckoo Maran chickens have an above average lifespan of 7 years in backyard confinement, which is average as most chickens live between 3 and 7 years. Since Cuckoo Marans can be used as meat birds, it should be noted that these chickens tend to live shorter lives of 2 to 3 years due to decreased production as they age.

• Poultry Show Class: Continental Class
  
• Weights: Hen—–6 1/2 lbs
  
• Rooster——8 lbs
  
• Pullet—5 1/2 lbs
  
• Cockerel—–7 lbs
  
• Purpose and Type: Primary production, Egg Laying & Pet/Secondary meat source
  
• Egg Shell Color: Dark Brown #5 to #8 Range
  
• Egg Production: 200+ eggs per year (estimates only, see FAQ)
  
• Egg Size: Large
  
• Temperament: Docile
  
• Gender Accuracy: 75-80%
  
• Fertility Percentage: 55-70%
  
• Broody: Setter
• Mating Ratio: 8 Females to 1 Male
  
• Roost Height: 2 to 4 feet
  
• Country of Origin: France
  
• APA: Yes, Recognized by the American Standard of Perfection in 2020
  
• TLC: Not Listed
  
• Breeder Farm Source: Poultry Breeding Farm has been developing our bloodline/strain of pure Black Marans chicken since 2012.