Is there a particular chicken that you’re interested in? Have you seen a chicken with all black feathers and appearance? Perhaps you’ve seen it at your local grocery store or Asian market and wondered what it was. These beautiful birds are called Asian black chickens.
If you’re a chicken lover and looking to add some variety to your chicken repertoire, you’ll want to learn everything there is to know about Asian black chickens.
What’s the deal with black chickens? Do they lay black eggs and have black meat?
What Is a Black Chicken?
Black chicken is a breed of chicken characterized by its black appearance. In poultry, the black color is caused by genetic changes or pigmentation.
Although the history of Asian Black chicken is unclear until now, many poultry experts speculate it originates in Asia, particularly in China, and is widely spread in Indonesia.
According to some breeders and hatcheries, Asian Black was created using Langshans, a breed that originates in China. It has black to bluish-black feathers, a beak, a comb, and a tongue similar to Lansghan. There is a traditional belief in China about this breed. Its meat is said to have many health benefits, including boosting the immune system and aiding indigestion. And it has been used for medicine for centuries.
According to Indonesian legend, this bird is capable of communicating with the afterlife. Although it appears to be funny, many natives still use it as a lucky charm. Even on Java island, it is raised and used for ceremonial events.
Ayam Cemani is the most common breed of black chicken. It was introduced in Europe in 1998 and gained popularity in the US after some time.
Difference Between Male and Female Asian Blacks
By observing the appearance of the Asian Black Chicken, you can tell which is a male or a female. The male chickens have fluffy feathers on their front neck and tail. They have larger combs and wattles. Unlike male chickens, female chickens have feathered legs and backs and small, slender hairs. Also, Black Asian chicks’ spring patterns help determine their gender.
Another way to tell the difference is by their crow. Obviously, males will crow much louder than females.
Overall, this breed is known for its docile and friendly nature. It is a hardy bird that may tolerate high temperatures.
The appearance of Asian Blacks: All Black or Grey?
Asian blacks can be either all black or grey. The grey variety is sometimes called splash Silkie.
There is no true breed standard for the Asian blackbirds as it is not a recognized breed by any major poultry association. However, the chickens are typically smaller than other chicken breeds and have blackish plumage color. A few Asian Black chicks have a white spot on their heads and usually have a black or buff color. They have little resemblance with black sex link females too.
You may ask, why is it black?
The color black is a result of a pigment called melanin. This same pigment is what gives human skin its color. Chickens with more melanin will appear darker, while those with less melanin will be lighter in color.
Do Asian Black Chickens Have Black Meat?
One of the most common questions about black chicken is whether or not the meat is black. The answer is no. The meat of black chicken is not necessarily black.
The dark color of the plumage is simply due to the high amount of melanin present in the chickens. The meat will be the same color as any other chicken meat.
Types of Black Chickens
There are several different types of black chicken breeds. Some of the most popular include:
Ayam Cemani
This breed of chicken originates from Indonesia. It weighs between three and four pounds and is entirely black, including the plumage, beak, tongue, and wattles.
The chicken originated in Java and was brought to Indonesia by Dutch merchants in the early 20th century. It is considered a rare breed and can be quite expensive; some birds go for as much as $2,500!
Black Jersey Giant
The Black Jersey Giant is a chicken breed developed in the United States in the late 19th century. It is one of the largest chicken breeds, with roosters typically weighing thirteen and fourteen pounds. These breeds are black with white feathers on their breasts.
Kadaknath
The Kadaknath, also called the Kali Masi, is a chicken breed from India. It is entirely black and is considered a sacred bird in India. It commonly serves as gifts to newlyweds or for celebrating a special occasion. The chickens are said to have many medicinal is a breed of black chicken that originates from India. Kadaknath chickens are also considered rare and can be difficult to find.
Australorp
Black Australorps are a unique breed suitable for both meat and egg production. They take longer than most breeds to mature, but if you’re thinking about raising them solely so they produce tasty steaks or eggs, your satisfaction will surely be worth the wait!
Orpingtons
Orpingtons are one of the more common breeds of black chickens. This breed comes in many different colors, including black.
They excel as general-purpose chickens and make great pets. The hens are known to be good layers of brown eggs, and the roosters make excellent meat birds.
Minorca
The Minorca is considered the largest of all Mediterranean breeds. It has long, angular feathers that appear larger than they are and a large tail with wide wings closely held to its body shape – making them look elegant yet powerful at once!
Silkies
Silkies are a breed of chicken characterized by their black plumage. They are one of the more popular breeds of black chicken, which you can find in many fowl shows.
Other black poultry includes Sumatra, Langsham, Jersey Giant, Swedish Black, and La Fleche.
Health Issues and Care
The diet of a chicken is not as simple to manage and stayed healthy. To ensure that they lay eggs, chickens need a well-balanced eating plan with all the necessary nutrients for growth which can be challenging in some cases because their needs are different from other animals.
A chicken’s diet should consist of three main things: water, food, and grit.
- Water is the most important item on this list because chickens need to drink a lot of water every day. A good rule of thumb is to provide each chicken with one gallon of water per day in a chicken watering system.
- Food is the next most important item on the list. Chickens need a balanced diet of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. A chicken’s diet should consist of about 20% protein, 20% carbohydrates, and 10% fat.
- Grit is the last item on the list. Grit is important because it helps chickens digest their food properly. Grit should be available to chickens at all times.
If you are unsure about what to feed your chickens, you can always consult a veterinarian. A veterinarian can help you create a balanced diet for your chickens and ensure they get all the nutrients they need.
Black Asian Chickens Lay Black Eggs or Brown Eggs?
Did you ever think that the Asian Black lays and hatch eggs in black color?
Well, just as with the meat, the eggs of this hen are not dark. The dark color of the shell is simply due to the high amount of melanin present in the hens. The eggs and flesh will be the same color as any other breeds.
It is a slower-growing bird. Asian males usually reach market weight in 16 weeks. Females take 18 weeks to attain friendly mature weight.
Like Rhode island red, they also lay a substantial amount of eggs. They lay around 150- 250 medium brown eggs per year. Although there aren’t many details about this breed, some chicken owners say their hens never showed signs of broodiness.
Though Ayam Cemani has black skin and bone marrow or is considered the blackest chicken breed, it does not even lay black eggs but cream to white-colored eggs.
Advantages of Raising Black Asian Chickens
The following advantages may interest you if you plan to raise black chickens. Just give it a try!
Unique Plumage
The most obvious advantage of raising black Asian chickens is their unique plumage. The all-black plumage of these fowls is quite striking and will certainly make your flock stand out from the rest!
They have a high melanin content. As we mentioned before, the high melanin content of black chicken makes them quite heat-tolerant. Black chickens may be a good choice if you live in an area with hot summers.
More Visibility
Another advantage of these fowls is that they are more visible than other colored breeds. This feature can be useful if you free-range your fowls and need to be able to see them easily.
The high visibility of black fowls can also be helpful if you have predators in your area. The contrast of the black feathers against the green grass will make it easier for you to spot your fowls and protect them from predators.
Qualitative Meat and Eggs
Black chicken meat is more tender and flavorful than other chicken meat, and the eggs are more nutritious than other chicken eggs.
Disadvantages of Raising Asian Black Chicken
Before you decide to buy this chicken, consider the following disadvantages.
Higher price
Because they are considered a rare breed, Asian blacks often come with a higher price tag. Black breeds are probably not the right choice if you’re looking for an inexpensive chicken.
Rare Breed
Asian Black Chicken can be difficult to find. Depending on where you live, Asian blacks may be difficult to find. You may have to search a bit to find a reputable breeder in your area.
Difficult To Raise
Asian Blacks can be difficult to raise. They are prone to health problems and require special care. If you aren’t familiar with raising chickens, a black flock may not be the right choice for you.
Potential Health Problems
The high melanin content of dark feathers is associated with increased cancer risk. It is because melanin can absorb and store UV radiation from the sun.
This radiation can then damage cells and lead to cancerous tumors. While there is no definitive evidence that Asianblacks are more likely to develop cancer, it is something to be aware of if you plan to raise them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Some Species of Chickens Completely Black?
The black color is a result of a pigment called melanin. This same pigment is what gives human skin its color. Chickens with more melanin will appear darker, while those with less melanin will be lighter in color.
Where Can I Buy Black Chicken Breed?
If you’re interested in purchasing an Asian black chicken, you can check with your local poultry breeders or look online. You might also be able to find them at a local pet store.
What Do Asian Blacks Eat?
Asian Blacks eat the same things as any other chicken. They should have a balanced diet of grains, vegetables, and protein.
Conclusion
In general, the Asian Black Chicken is a beautiful and unique breed of chicken. e hope this guide has helped you learn more about them.