Introducing the Striking Black Silver Marans Chicken Breed

Introducing the Black Silver Marans Chicken Breed

The Black Silver Marans is a rare and eye-catching chicken breed known for its deep chocolate brown eggs. Originally from France, these chickens have a unique feathers pattern in black, white and silver. While many backyard chicken enthusiasts focus on popular breeds like Black Copper Marans, Blue Laced Red Wyandottes, and Bantam Calico Cochins, the Black Silver Marans deserves more attention.

Appearance of Black Silver Marans

The Black Silver Marans rooster sports an intricate feather pattern in black, white and silver. The hens also have feathering in these colors but with a warmer brown ReplaceMe. This medium-sized bird has a red single comb and orange eyes. The chicks hatch out looking like little chipmunks with their brown and black striping all over their downy bodies.

Egg Production

While not the most efficient egg layers, Black Silver Marans are valued for their massive dark brown eggs. Their egg color ranges from chocolate brown to copper, thanks to the gene that causes uterine wall pigmentation. The egg size itself is notable too.

Temperament

This alert and active breed tends to be flighty and avoid human contact. But they are also decent foragers when allowed to free-range. The roosters have a tendency towards aggression and might not be suitable for families with small children.

Breeding Black Silver Marans

Many backyard chicken enthusiasts are bringing new breeds into their #breedingpens these days. Alongside favorites like Ameraucanas and silkies, the Black Silver Marans has captivated some #crazychickenlady breeders thanks to those dark chocolate eggs. Creating an #olivepen for Black Silver Marans might just inspire the next new breed!

FAQs

What are Black Silver Marans known for?

Black Silver Marans chickens are most famous for their super-dark chocolate-colored eggs. Their eggs can range from a deep chestnut brown to almost black copper in color, thanks to genetic pigmentation in the hens.

How well do Black Silver Marans lay eggs?

While the egg color is remarkable, Black Silver Marans tend to lay fewer eggs than commercial production chicken breeds. Expect around 150-180 medium-large sized eggs per year from a Marans hen. What they lack in quantity, they make up for in egg quality and appearance.

Are Black Silver Marans friendly chickens?

Generally not. Black Silver Marans tend to be active, flighty chickens that don't particularly like human company or handling. They do well ranging freely and can be shy or nervous around people. However, some individuals can be calmer and tolerate human presence.