Valley Hatchery offers the elegant Black Cochin Standard Chicks, a breed steeped in history and renowned for its ornamental beauty. Originally known as “Shanghai” birds from China, particularly the Shanghai province, they arrived in the U.S. around 1840, sparking the “Hen Fever” – a frenzy for unique chicken breeds. The Black Cochin, with its distinctive all-black feathers, is a testament to this heritage and has been further refined in the U.S. for its stunning appearance.
These chickens are more than just a visual delight; they are friendly and make excellent pets, ideal for families. They lay about 110-160 medium brown eggs per year, a respectable yield for ornamental birds. In terms of size, the roosters weigh around 11 lbs and the hens about 8.5 lbs, adding to their impressive presence.
Recognized by the American Standard of Perfection since 1874 and exhibited in the Asiatic Class, the Black Cochin Chickens are a symbol of elegance in poultry shows. It’s common for them to have some white feathers during their first and second stages of feathering, but they eventually mature into their iconic solid black plumage by around six months. Known for going broody, they not only bring beauty to a flock but also possess a nurturing nature. Choose Valley Hatchery’s Black Cochin Standard Chicks for a mix of historical charm, striking looks, and friendly demeanor.