Chickens with striking black plumage offer a unique visual experience. These birds captivate observers with their deep, often iridescent, dark feathers. Various breeds naturally exhibit this distinct coloration, adding remarkable diversity to the familiar image of a chicken.
What Makes Chickens Black
The black coloration in certain chicken breeds stems from fibromelanosis, a genetic trait. This condition results in an excessive accumulation of melanin, the pigment responsible for dark colors, throughout the bird’s tissues. The fibromelanosis gene causes melanin to deposit in feathers, skin, and connective tissues. This dominant gene is often associated with a complex genomic rearrangement involving the endothelin 3 (EDN3) gene on chromosome 20. While some black chickens only have dark feathers, fibromelanosis causes more extensive pigmentation throughout their bodies.
Common Black Chicken Breeds
The Ayam Cemani, originating from Indonesia, is renowned for its complete black pigmentation. Every external part, including its feathers, beak, tongue, comb, wattles, and skin, is jet black. These medium-sized birds lay cream-colored eggs and are not prolific layers.
The Silkie, originating from China, is known for its uniquely fluffy plumage that feels like silk. Despite varied feather colors, Silkies possess black skin, bones, and often grayish-black meat. They also stand out with five toes on each foot and blue earlobes.
The Black Australorp, developed in Australia, is a popular dual-purpose breed for meat and egg production. These chickens display solid black feathers that often shimmer with an iridescent beetle-green sheen in sunlight. They typically have bright red combs and wattles, contrasting with black beaks and dark slate legs. Black Australorps are known for their docile temperament and lay 200 to 300 large brown eggs annually.
The Jersey Giant, developed in New Jersey, is the largest domesticated chicken breed. These birds have black plumage that can exhibit a green sheen. Originally bred for meat to rival turkeys, they also lay approximately 240 large brown eggs annually. Jersey Giants are known for their calm and docile nature, making them suitable for various farm environments.
Beyond Black Feathers
Some black chicken breeds exhibit pigmentation far beyond their feathers. This results in black coloration of their skin, bones, and internal organs.
The Ayam Cemani is a prime example, with virtually every part, including its beak, tongue, comb, wattles, meat, and organs, being jet black. Similarly, Silkie chickens, despite lighter feather colors, consistently possess black skin, bones, and internal organs. Other breeds like the Kadaknath from India and the Svarthöna from Sweden also share this internal blackness. Despite extreme pigmentation, their blood and eggs typically retain normal colors.
The Appeal of Black Chickens
Black chickens hold a distinct appeal for poultry enthusiasts and collectors. Their striking and unique appearance, with deep, often iridescent black feathers, offers significant ornamental value.
In several cultures, particularly in Asia, black chickens like the Ayam Cemani are associated with mysticism and symbolism, representing wealth, prosperity, or spiritual significance. They are sometimes used in traditional rituals and ceremonies. Beyond aesthetic and cultural importance, many black chicken breeds serve practical purposes, providing eggs and meat. Some traditional Asian cuisines value their meat for perceived medicinal properties.