French Black Copper Marans Chicken Marans chickens hail from the western region of France, specifically from the town that shares their name. Among the various Marans varieties, the Black Copper Marans stand out for their large, rich, dark chocolate-brown eggs. Notably, these eggs are the darkest of all the Marans types, with the deepest hue appearing at the beginning of their laying cycle. Over time, the egg color lightens slightly, then deepens again after a rest period. Black Copper Marans thrive in free-range environments, minimizing damage from heavy scratching. These feather-legged birds grow quickly, making them an excellent dual-purpose breed for both homesteads and backyard flocks. Average mature weight: Roosters 8.5 lbs., Hens 7 lbs. The French Black Copper Marans are a rare and sought-after breed in the United States. Due to an import ban that limited their genetic diversity, flocks of these chickens are challenging to come by. Ideal for: Egg Enthusiasts: If you're looking for a chicken breed that produces the darkest and most beautiful eggs, the French Black Copper Marans is the perfect choice. Their eggs stand out in any egg carton and are highly sought after by collectors and chefs. Small Farms & Homesteads: Their docile nature and dual-purpose capabilities make them ideal for small farms and homesteads, where both eggs and meat are desired. Their calm behavior also makes them good companions in mixed-bird flocks. Heritage Poultry Keepers: As a heritage breed, the French Black Copper Marans is ideal for poultry enthusiasts looking to raise and preserve traditional breeds with a rich history. Care Requirements: Space: The French Black Copper Marans enjoy free-range environments where they can forage and roam. They also do well in larger coops with ample space to move around. Their size and activity level mean they should not be overcrowded. Feeding: Like other chickens, the French Black Copper Marans thrive on a balanced diet of high-quality poultry feed, along with access to fresh water and occasional treats like vegetables, grains, or mealworms. Shelter: These chickens need a secure, well-ventilated coop to protect them from the elements and predators. A comfortable roosting space and clean bedding are essential to keeping them healthy. Frequently Asked Questions: Why are Black Copper Marans chickens so costly?The high cost of Black Copper Marans chickens is due to the meticulous breeding process required to maintain their deep pigment. Breeders selectively choose hens that produce the most richly colored eggs over an extended period, which drives up breeding costs. Consequently, both the chickens and their eggs are more expensive. The bird's genetics also play a crucial role in the dark coloration of the eggs, adding to their value. What color eggs do French Black Copper Marans lay?French Black Copper Marans hens typically lay around 3 eggs per week, totaling about 150-200 eggs annually. While this might be lower compared to other breeds, the distinctive quality of their eggs compensates for the lower quantity. These hens lay eggs that are a stunning, rich chocolate brown, making them highly sought after by enthusiasts. At what age do Marans start laying eggs?Most Marans hens begin laying eggs between 24 to 26 weeks of age. Ensuring that your pullets have time to adapt to their environment will help them stay on schedule to start laying within this timeframe. Are Black Copper Marans a rare breed?Yes, French Black Copper Marans are considered a rare breed, especially in the United States. A historical import ban significantly reduced the genetic pool, making these chickens and their flocks relatively uncommon and more difficult to find. How long do Black Copper Marans live?Black Copper Marans chickens generally have a lifespan of up to eight years, provided they are well cared for in a suitable environment. French Black Copper Marans Facts Poultry Show Class: Continental Class Weights: Hen—–6 1/2 lbs Rooster——8 lbs Pullet—5 1/2 lbs Cockerel—–7 lbs Purpose and Type: Primary production, Egg Laying & Pet/Secondary meat source Egg Shell Color: Dark Brown #5 to #8 Range Egg Production: 200+ eggs per year (estimates only) Egg Size: Large Temperament: Docile Gender Accuracy: 75-80% Fertility Percentage: 55-70% Broody: Setter Mating Ratio: 8 Females to 1 Male Roost Height: 2 to 4 feet Country of Origin: France APA: Yes, recognized by the American Standard of Perfection in 2011. TLC: Not Listed Breeder Farm Source: Poultry Breeding Farm has been developing our bloodline/strain of pure Black Copper Marans chicken since 2012.
