Valley Hatchery proudly presents the French Black Marans Chickens, a distinguished breed renowned for its unique characteristics and egg-laying prowess. These chickens, recognized by the American Standard of Perfection in 2020, are celebrated for their dual-purpose role, especially in egg production. Each hen is capable of laying over 200 large, dark brown eggs annually, a trait that sets them apart in the poultry world. The eggs from our breeding flock exhibit a rich color spectrum, ranging from a five to eight shade on the Marans egg color chart, showcasing their exceptional quality.
Admired for their serene demeanor, these birds are an ideal choice for poultry enthusiasts. The roosters and hens, weighing around 8lbs and 6.5lbs respectively, are of a manageable size. Originating from France, they belong to the Continental Class in poultry shows, highlighting their prestigious lineage. Their tendency to go broody adds to their charm, making them a favorite among breeders.
One of the most striking features of the French Black Marans is their glossy black plumage, which distinguishes them from their Marans counterparts. This breed also boasts subtle leg feathering. It’s noteworthy that these chickens may exhibit a few white feathers during their first and second molts. However, by approximately six months, they develop a captivating, solid black coat.
The French Black Marans not only offer aesthetic appeal but also a touch of rarity. Originating from the Marans region in France, their numbers in the U.S. are limited due to previous poultry import restrictions, enhancing their exclusivity.
At Valley Hatchery, we understand the importance of accurate gender sexing for our customers. While most of our breeds boast a 90% accuracy rate, the French Marans breed presents a more challenging task for our expert vent sexors. Therefore, for this particular breed, we offer a 75% accuracy guarantee, ensuring that we meet our customers’ needs with the highest level of dedication and expertise.