The unique Black Copper Marans chicken stands out with its striking black feathers and exquisite coppery hues. To uncover this charming breed’s unique traits, let us explore what the Black Copper Maran is all about in this article!
Black Copper Marans Overview
| Size | Medium |
| Body Shape | Compact |
| Country of Origin | Marans, France |
| Weight | 5-8 lbs. |
| Lifespan | 8 years |
| Breed Standard | United States Poultry Association |
| Temperament | Docile and Gentle |
| Feather Color | Black with Metallic Sheen |
| Best suited for | Egg and Meat Production |
Not only are Black Copper Marans aesthetically exquisite, but they possess a unique strength and vigor that enables them to forage with ease. Also, these birds lay plenty of eggs despite the cold weather conditions—a testament to their exceptional grit!
The hens of this breed are recognized for their excellent egg-laying capacities. It produces a whopping 180 to 200 eggs yearly, all with dark chocolate-colored shells. It’s no surprise that they have earned a reputation as reliable layers!
The Black Copper Marans are a stunning breed with their glossy, dark plumage in shades of deep chocolate and metallic hues. They boast broad chests, rounded bodies, strong legs & feet, and single combs, and small earlobes.
Black Copper Marans are known for their gentle nature, making them ideal family pets. Not only that, but they’re also docile and not prone to aggression.
Black Copper Marans are an ideal choice for any backyard flock with their beauty, resiliency, and pleasant nature. They have a proven reputation as reliable egg producers both on small-scale farms and commercial operations. Making them the perfect addition to any farm!
History of Black Copper Marans
The Black Copper Maran breed of chicken dates back to the early 1900s in Marans, France. This unique bird was created by cross-breeding native chickens with those from Asia, such as Langshan and Cochin.
This unique chicken breed is beloved for its strength in the unforgiving coastal climates that resemble those of the Marsh Poitevin region.
Post-World War II, the Black Copper Marans breed was near extinction. Thankfully, a cadre of fervent French poultry fanatics was able to preserve and revive this species from collapse.
Today, this chicken breed is a popular pick among owners because of its amazing dark-colored eggs with intense flavor. Not to mention its juicy meat that is remarkable in flavor when compared to other breeds!
After a lengthy period of suspense, the historic Black Copper Marans were finally included by the American Poultry Association in 2011—a momentous event!
In contrast to that long wait, these clean-legged Marans had been in the esteemed Poultry Club of Great Britain since way back in 1935.
The Marans is renowned for its ‘Continental’ type body and large poultry sizes, making it more easily known than other breeds worldwide. In France, where this distinct chicken originates from, nine distinct types of Marans are officially approved. However, each country has different criteria when discerning between these varieties.
In the United Kingdom, clean-legged Marans are typically deemed standard. However, those with feathering and without being accepted as a norm in American and France’s poultry industries.
Black Copper Marans Breed Standard and Appearance
Breed Standard
The United States Poultry Association and French breed standard describe the Black Copper Marans’ plumage as dark-hued with a glimmering, emerald-copper shine.
The bird’s hackle, breast, and tail are adorned in lighter shades of red copper, while its legs & feet boast a slate hue. Its eyes bring the look together with their light brown color.
Appearance
The Black Copper Marans are medium-sized with a broad and deep chest as well as a compact body. Their head is shorter than the standard variety. However, it’s broad in shape, featuring one comb plus red earlobes. Also, their legs exhibit lavish feathers along with the length of their tails—which tend to be slightly wider too!
The Black Copper Marans is well-known for its distinct and striking coloration: a gleaming, black-brown hue. The name of the breed originates from its metallic copper sheen. Rooster’s backs and tail feathers exude an iridescent green-black shade, while hens’ plumage usually displays a unified solid hue.
The Black Copper Marans breed of chickens has a distinct look; their sturdily-built legs and feet are an eye-catching slate hue, topped with single combs and earlobes. These birds also feature brown eyes and beaks in a striking light shade. But the pièce de résistance is the ebony feathers that adorn their legs, from which they get their name ‘black copper.’
With a compact shape, Black Copper Marans make up medium-sized chickens. The hens typically weigh around 5 to 6 pounds, and roosters are slightly heavier at 7 to 8 pounds.
Temperament of Black Copper Marans
With its gentle nature, Black Copper Marans is the perfect breed to add to your flock. When handled with care and respect, this breed’s docility and calm demeanor make it an ideal choice for any poultry buff looking for a winning medley!
With a curious spirit and daring nature, Black Copper Marans are lively foragers that enjoy searching for their next snack.
However, despite the vitality of these chickens, they remain gentle when around humans or animals. Therefore, if you’re looking for a suitable pet for your family with children or other pets already at home—look no further than this breed!
Hens are assets to any farm, being known for their superb egg-laying abilities and maternal instincts. Not only can they lay eggs consistently, but they also brood a clutch of eggs with higher chances of hatching them—making them optimal nominees for raising chicks!
This is prevalent through the breed’s history; Maran hens make for an excellent investment in any agricultural establishment.
Egg Production of Black Copper Marans
If your passion for eggs drives you to have chickens around, the Black Copper Maran should be at the top of your list! This breed is an incredible egg layer and can produce up to a whopping 200 eggs each year.
Many of these sought-after delicacies are dark chocolate in color, with their striking hue matching their exquisite flavor. Peak production tends to occur every year from spring through early summer. So, get ready for plenty of harvests throughout this season!
Hens will reliably lay eggs for about three years, beginning 24 to 26 weeks after hatching. However, the number of eggs laid may change due to various factors.
Remember that hens need extra caloric intake to stay warm in the winter, meaning their egg production will likely be lower. But on brighter days when there’s more warmth around them, you can expect a greater amount of eggs!
For those in search of the best quality eggs, Black Copper Marans are the ideal selection. This breed can lay up to 200 dark chocolate-colored eggs annually and have a unique flavor you won’t find elsewhere. If you want to maximize egg production when keeping backyard chickens, look no further than these superb chickens!
Health Issues and Treatments
Black Copper Marans chickens are still liable to health issues despite their hardiness. Of course, remember that with any living creature comes the risk of sickness is always present. Some of the most common ailments for this breed include:
Worms and Parasites
Keeping your chickens free of parasites by deworming them regularly and ensuring their living quarters are in optimal condition will guarantee that they stay healthy and happy.
Avian Influenza
Reports from all over the globe indicate that a potentially lethal strain of avian influenza, known as H5N8, is rapidly spreading among poultry.
This virus can be fatal for chickens and may lead to notable losses for farmers and businesses alike. Therefore, it’s wise to take preventive measures such as quarantining birds before introducing them into your flock to reduce the chance of contamination.
Egg binding
Several factors, such as a deficient calcium or nutrient supply, can cause the inability of a hen to lay eggs. As the Black Copper Marans are known for laying more eggs than other varieties, it is crucial to pay attention and take steps toward stopping egg binding from occurring.
To ensure the long-term health and well-being of your Black Copper Marans, you must stay vigilant in observing their behaviors for any oddities or probable illnesses. With proper care, these beautiful birds can live full life. So, take action fast if needed to keep them in top condition!
Black Cooper Marans Care Sheet
For your Black Copper Marans chickens to remain in optimal health, a balanced diet and sanitary living environment are a must. Moreover, it’s best to arrange regular visits with an avian vet so that these animals can stay strong and fit! Here are a few specific tips for caring for Black Copper Marans chickens:
Nutrition
To ensure your chickens remain healthy and happy, provide them with a well-rounded diet. That includes top-quality feed, fruits, and vegetables, on top of sources of calcium like crushed eggshells or oyster shells.
It’s easy to ensure your chickens remain in optimal health and hydration. Simply provide them with a supply of clean, fresh water at all times.
Housing
To keep them in optimal health, Black Copper Marans chickens need an airy and well-ventilated coop that is free of moisture and dirt. Also, the pen should grant them enough room to move about freely while being able to stretch out their wings as they.
Providing chickens with a safe and spacious area to roam is essential for their well-being. Besides, keeping the coop run in an orderly condition prevents contagious diseases from spreading among them.
Ensuring the safety of your chickens is paramount. Their coop and run must be fenced against unwanted predators or inclement weather. Fencing off these areas should be a top priority to keep them secure from any potential danger they face outdoors.
Health
To ensure that your Marans chickens stay in optimal health, it’s crucial to inspect them regularly and be attentive for any signs of injury or illness.
To provide further guard, ensuring they are immune from avian influenza and other ailments should also be a priority. If you detect out-of-the-ordinary behavior while keeping an eye on your poultry, seeking advice from a vet or poultry expert right away would be wise.
In Summary
With this much info, you can guarantee that your Black Copper Marans are receiving the best possible care. All their needs—from birth to health—are available here in an easy-to-access format!
