11 Black Chicken Breeds with Feathered Feet

If you’re looking to have black colored chicken breeds in your flock, then you’ve great variety of breeds to choose. Some even have black meat and skin.

Black chickens with feathered feet are a fascinating and unique addition to any poultry collection.

These birds are known for their striking appearance, hardy nature, and, in some cases, excellent egg-laying abilities.

American Poultry Association recognized 46 black chicken breeds, in this write-up we’ll explore some of the most popular black-feathered, feather-footed chicken breeds, their characteristics, and why they are a great choice for backyard farmers and poultry enthusiasts.

11 Black Chicken Breeds with Feathered Feet

1. Black Cochin

The Black Cochin is one of the most well-known feather-footed breeds, admired for its large size, fluffy feathers, and gentle personality. Originally from China, Cochins are primarily raised for ornamental purposes but also make great pets due to their docile temperament.

Characteristics

  • Size: Large, with roosters weighing up to 11 lbs and hens around 8.5 lbs.
  • Feathering: Thick, fluffy feathers covering their entire body, including legs and feet.
  • Egg Production: Moderate, around 150-180 brown eggs per year.
  • Temperament: Extremely friendly and easy to handle.

Why Choose Black Cochins?

  • Excellent for cold climates due to their dense plumage.
  • Ideal for families and beginners.
  • They have a regal and elegant appearance.

2. Black Langshan

Originating from China, the Black Langshan is a tall, stately breed with feathered feet. It is a dual-purpose bird, valued for both meat and egg production. These chickens have a glossy black sheen with a beetle-green shine, making them a striking addition to any flock.

Characteristics

  • Size: Medium to large, with roosters reaching up to 9.5 lbs and hens around 7.5 lbs.
  • Feathering: Sleek yet fluffy feathers with heavily feathered legs.
  • Egg Production: Good, laying around 200 medium-to-large brown eggs per year.
  • Temperament: Gentle, calm, and active foragers.

Why Choose Black Langshans?

  • Great for both meat and egg production.
  • They are active but still friendly and easy to manage.
  • Adapt well to various climates.

3. Black Brahma

Brahmas are one of the most iconic feather-footed breeds, known for their massive size and beautiful plumage. The Black Brahma is a rare variation, featuring deep black feathers with a slight greenish sheen. Originally bred for meat, Brahmas are now commonly raised for their ornamental value and friendly nature.

  • Size: Large, with roosters weighing up to 12 lbs and hens around 9.5 lbs.
  • Feathering: Dense, with full leg and foot feathering.
  • Egg Production: Moderate to good, producing 150-200 brown eggs per year.
  • Temperament: Calm, friendly, and easygoing.

Why Choose Black Brahmas?

  • Impressive size and beauty make them a standout breed.
  • They are excellent winter layers.
  • Gentle nature makes them great for families.

4. Silkie (Black Variety)

The Silkie is one of the most unique chicken breeds, recognized for its fluffy, fur-like feathers, feathered feet, and distinct black skin and bones. Though not a prolific layer, the Black Silkie is a favorite for ornamental purposes and brooding.

  • Size: Small, with roosters weighing around 4 lbs and hens about 3 lbs.
  • Feathering: Soft, silky feathers that cover their entire body, including their feet.
  • Egg Production: Low, averaging 100-150 small cream-colored eggs per year.
  • Temperament: Exceptionally friendly, docile, and social.

Why Choose Black Silkies?

  • Excellent for children and as pets.
  • One of the best broody hens for hatching eggs.
  • Unique, eye-catching appearance.

5. Black Marans (Feather-Legged Variety)

Marans are famous for their rich, chocolate-brown eggs, and while most varieties have clean legs, some Black Marans develop feathered feet due to breeding with feather-legged lines. They originate from France and are valued for both egg production and meat quality.

  • Size: Medium to large; roosters around 8 lbs, hens 6.5 lbs.
  • Feathering: Dense black plumage with feathering on their legs and feet.
  • Egg Production: Excellent, laying 150-200 dark brown eggs per year.
  • Temperament: Friendly, but can be a bit reserved.

Why Choose Black Marans?

  • Lay some of the darkest brown eggs of any breed.
  • Hardy and adaptable to various climates.
  • Excellent for dual-purpose (meat and eggs).

6. Black Sultans

Sultans are a rare and exotic breed originally from Turkey, known for their fancy crest, beard, and heavy feathering, including their legs and feet. While White Sultans are the most common, Black Sultans exist and share the same elegant traits.

  • Size: Small to medium; roosters weigh around 6 lbs, hens about 4 lbs.
  • Feathering: Completely covered in black feathers, including their legs and feet.
  • Egg Production: Low, averaging 50-100 small white eggs per year.
  • Temperament: Very docile and friendly.

Why Choose Black Sultans?

  • Perfect for ornamental purposes.
  • Extremely friendly and social.
  • Their fancy, fluffy appearance makes them unique.

7. Black Pekin Bantam

Pekin Bantams are true bantams, meaning they have no large-sized counterpart. The Black Pekin Bantam is a compact, adorable bird with full feather coverage on its feet and legs, originating from China.

  • Size: Small; roosters weigh around 1.5-2 lbs, hens 1.3-1.5 lbs.
  • Feathering: Soft, rounded black plumage covering their entire body.
  • Egg Production: Low, averaging 100-150 cream-colored eggs per year.
  • Temperament: Friendly, docile, and great for families.

Why Choose Black Pekins?

  • Excellent for small backyard flocks.
  • Great temperament for pets.
  • Their fluffy, round appearance is irresistible!

8. Black Faverolles

Faverolles are originally from France and are better known in their Salmon variety, but black Faverolles also exist. They are unique because of their feathered feet, muffs, and beards, giving them a distinctive look.

  • Size: Medium; roosters weigh around 8 lbs, hens 6.5 lbs.
  • Feathering: Black with a dense, fluffy beard and leg feathering.
  • Egg Production: Good, producing 180-200 light brown eggs per year.
  • Temperament: Extremely friendly and social.

Why Choose Black Faverolles?

  • They have a quirky, adorable appearance.
  • Excellent cold-weather layers.
  • Very affectionate and people-friendly.

9. Black D’Uccle

The D’Uccle is a Belgian bantam breed, well-loved for its striking appearance and charming personality. While Mille Fleur is the most famous variety, the Black D’Uccle also exists, showcasing deep black plumage with heavy feathering on the feet.

  • Size: Small; roosters weigh about 1.5 lbs, hens around 1.3 lbs.
  • Feathering: Shiny black with a full beard and feathered legs.
  • Egg Production: Moderate, laying around 100-150 small cream-colored eggs per year.
  • Temperament: Sweet, calm, and friendly.

Why Choose Black D’Uccles?

  • Perfect for hobbyists who love unique birds.
  • Extremely affectionate and easy to handle.
  • Their small size makes them ideal for small coops.

10. Black Booted Bantam

The Booted Bantam is another small, feather-footed breed with a striking appearance. The Black Booted Bantam is a true bantam and is similar to the Black D’Uccle but lacks the beard.

  • Size: Small; roosters weigh around 1.5 lbs, hens about 1.3 lbs.
  • Feathering: Glossy black feathers with profuse leg and foot feathering.
  • Egg Production: Low to moderate, around 100-150 small eggs per year.
  • Temperament: Very friendly and social.

Why Choose Black Booted Bantams?

  • Stunning ornamental birds.
  • Ideal for small flocks and backyard coops.
  • Love human interaction and make great pets.

11. Black Pyncheon Bantam

The Pyncheon Bantam is an old, rare breed, mostly seen in Mille Fleur color, but black varieties exist. This breed is similar in size and appearance to the Booted Bantam and D’Uccle.

  • Size: Small; roosters weigh around 1.5 lbs, hens about 1.3 lbs.
  • Feathering: Shiny black with some white speckling and feathered legs.
  • Egg Production: Low, laying around 50-100 small white eggs per year.
  • Temperament: Active, alert, and friendly.

Why Choose Black Pyncheon Bantams?

  • Extremely rare and unique.
  • Great for collectors and ornamental enthusiasts.
  • Small and easy to care for.

Conclusion

Black feather-footed chickens are not only stunning in appearance but also bring various benefits, from egg production to companionship.

Whether you’re looking for a gentle giant like the Black Brahma, an elegant Langshan, or a fluffy Silkie, these breeds make wonderful additions to any flock.

Would you like help choosing the best breed for your needs?

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