French Black Copper Marans
Feathers Plus
Breed 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, see FAQ)
- 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
Breed History:
Marans originated on the west coast of France in a town called Marans. Amazingly, they evolved from an unknown mix of breeds brought from India and Indonesia. The tired fighting roosters that survived voyages were traded for fresh meat and egg-laying hens. These roosters mixed with local swamp hens and came to be called “swamp chickens.” They were prized for their fighting abilities and the rich mahogany eggs the hens produced. It’s their fighting lineage that gives them the proud athletic posture and muscle tone they are known for. In the 1920s, local breeders began working to improve them by mixing in Langshan, Brahma, and Coucou de Malines. By the 1930’s, their dual-purpose breed status was established. Following the devastation of World War II, much of the foundation stock had been lost and they were nearly extinct. In the 1950’s under the direction of the French Department of Agricultural Services, the breed was revived and dramatically improved its egg-laying abilities.
Stats:
Eggs- Dark mahogany brown. Roughly 150 – 200 eggs per year
Dual Purpose- Yes. Males average 8lb and females 6.5lb
Physical Characteristics
These chickens are medium to large-sized birds that sport a genuinely eye-catching appearance. Their black chicken feathers are adorned with deep copper hues, creating mesmerizing patterns that make them stand out in any flock.
The males of the species exhibit more copper coloring on their necks and saddle feathers, while females showcase predominantly black plumage with a few copper highlights.
The breed’s single comb, wattles, and earlobes are typically a vibrant red, which nicely complements their dark eye color. In addition, Maran chickens are known for their feathered legs and feet, usually slate blue or black.
These unique features add to the breed’s undeniable charm and appeal.
Leg Feathering
The APA-recognized Marans varieties should have a moderately feathered leg. But the non-recognized colors may or may not have leg feathers. Contrary to popular belief, having the word “French” in the breed name doesn’t indicate the presence of more leg feathering. All Marans are French Marans since the breed originates from France. So if you have a French Black Copper Marans and a Black Copper Marans, it’s the same breed. Both should have leg feathers, lay brown eggs and have black bodies with copper feathering accents.
Marans can have feathered or unfeathered legs, though here in the United States, the American Poultry Association only recognizes the feather-legged variety, which is a part of the Continental Class. Since the APA Breed Standard calls for feathered legs, if you intend to show your Marans chickens, ensure they have well-feathered legs.
Roosters have a protective spirit over the hens and love sounding out the alert to the ladies when they find food or when it is time to take cover. They are gentle souls when it comes to humans. They are a great breed to consider for families that are looking for a family-friendly flock.
Consider adding this popular breed that has a sweet personality. The Marans can be a good breed for older children who have little experience with owning poultry already and are ready for a larger breed.
