Black Beauties! 10 Feathered-Footed Chicken Gems
As it is with many forms of livestock, poultry farming embraces different breeds of chickens with different sizes, colors and characteristics. Some of the most interesting include the black chicken breeds that have feathered feet. These birds not only look peculiar but also possess practical qualities that make them distinct from other creatures. In this guide, we are going to learn more about 10 Black Chicken Breeds with Feathered Feet and understand their respective characteristics, features, and applications.
Cochin
Cochin chickens are renowned for their docile temperament and abundant feathers, particularly on their legs. They belong to the larger breeds of chickens, with roosters weighing up to 11 pounds and hens weighing 9 pounds. Cochin hens occasionally produce brown eggs while not the most prolific egg layers.
Characteristics
- Large and robust body structure
- Fluffy leg feathers
- Docile and friendly demeanor
Langshan
Originating from China, Langshan chickens are notable for their black plumage, rose combs, and feathered feet. They serve as excellent dual-purpose birds for meat and egg production. Langshans exhibit good cold-hardiness, making them suitable for various climates.
Characteristics
- Black plumage
- Rose combs
- Feathered feet
Silkie
Silkies are highly admired for their attractive physiques, which include soft fur-like feathers, black, scaly skin, and blue ear lobes. Each foot has five toes, with feathers in the middle and the outer toes. Silkies are not prolific layers but are popular as show birds and are very calm.
Characteristics
- Soft, fluffy feathers
- Black skin
- Blue earlobes
- Five toes on each foot
Faverolle
Faverolles originate from France and are known to have large muffs, beards, and pea combs. They are available in a black color variant and are generally amiable animals. This breed does very well for both meat production and egg-laying purposes.
Characteristics
- Large muffs and beard
- Pea comb
- Friendly temperament
Barnevelder
Barnevelder chickens, originating from the Netherlands, have double combs and black and white barred feathers. They are very versatile birds, so they are bred for egg production and their ability to remain productive in cold climates. Barnevelders are beautiful birds, their appearance being characterized by a unique pattern of feathers.
Characteristics
- Double comb
- Barred black and white feathers
- Good egg production
Houdan
Houdan chickens, native to France, are known for their large crests and distinctive black and white mottling. They are not the best layers of eggs, but they are as good as the dual-purpose birds. Houdans are appreciated for their gentle temperament and striking appearance.
Characteristics
- Large crest
- Black and white mottled plumage
Sultan
Sultans from Turkey have white crests and beards combined with black feathers. Although these birds do not often have egg layers, they are considered to be of high ornamental value. Sultans are referred to as being calm and docile in their behaviors.
Characteristics
- White crest and beard
- Black plumage
Appenzeller Spitzhauben
Switzerland is home to the Appenzeller Spitzhauben, a rose comb interspersed with a spiked crest. It comes in different color types, black, and is ideal for both meat production and egg laying. These chickens are valued for their hardiness and moderate fertility rates for laying eggs.
Characteristics
- Rose comb
- Spiked crest
- Good egg production
Dorking
Dorking chickens originate from England and are characterized by a fifth toe and white ear lobes. They are available in different colors, like black, and are mainly reared for meat production and egg layers. The temperament of Dorkings is gentle and perfectly suitable for any climate.
Characteristics
- Fifth toe
- White earlobes
- Good meat and egg production
Polish
The Polish chickens have a large mass of feathers on the head arranged so that they fall on the side. They are commonly available in black color and are widely known as fancy poultry birds. Although they are not extremely good egg-layers, Polish chickens are considered ornamental due to their striking appearance and friendly disposition.
Characteristics
- Large crest of feathers
- Ornamental appearance
- Docile temperament
Read Also: What Is A Group Of Chickens Called?
Final Words
Therefore, black chicken breeds with feathered feet not only give a beautiful appearance but also have some benefits in poultry farming. If you need a bird for both egg-laying and meat for a decorative purpose or just as a pet, then these ten breeds offer a wide choice.
