Last Updated on April 26, 2022 by Pauline G. Carter
Marans chicken’s origins can be traced back to France. They are hybrid birds of the Faverolles, Langshan, English Games and Coucou De Malines. At the 1914 national exhibition in France, the Marans made their debut as a ‘country hen’.
Still seen in France today are the original type of birds with slightly feathered legs. There are a few strains of the Copper Black Marans in the UK that still also have some feathering on their legs.
Because of this feathering, they are referred to often as French Black Copper Marans chickens. Feathered shanks however are considered a serious defect according to the British Poultry Standards.
Marans Chicken | Breed Profile
| Country of origin: | France |
| Primary use: | Dual-purpose meat/eggs |
| Weight: | Male: Standard: 3.5–4 kgBantam: 1100 g Female: Standard: 2.5–3 kgBantam: 900 g |
| Temperament: | Quiet, Docile |
| Recognized Varieties: | Black-Tailed Buff, Cuckoo, Golden Cuckoo, Columbian, Black Copper, Wheaten, Birchen, Black, White |
| Egg production (annual): | 150 |
| Egg color: | Dark brown |
| Egg size: | Large |
| Comb type: | Single |
Characteristics Of The Marans Chicken
Marans chickens lay deep chocolate-brown eggs. Another variety, the Black Copper and also the Silver Cuckoo Marans chicken variety, although to a lesser extent – produce the darkest eggs of all – they are highly sought after.
They lay about 150 eggs a year. Being dual-purpose birds, they lay beautiful dark-colored eggs, but they make excellent table birds as well.
Marans chickens have a single comb. The Marans Cocks weight around 3.6 Kg and the hens about 3.2 kg. The bantam cocks will weight between 500-550 g with the hens around 400-450 g.
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Their colors can be Black, Golden Cuckoo, Dark Cuckoo, Silver Cuckoo, Black Tailed Buff, Brown Red or Copper Black, Copper Blue, Silver Black or Birchen, White, Wheaten, and Columbian or Ermine.
The Cuckoo variety is the recognized Marans with their light background with dark colors of irregular bands.
Behavior/Temperament
Marans are robust chickens, docile and they interact well with people. They are tough birds too and are good at being immune to some diseases. They are active birds and love to free-range.
They fit in well with other chicken breeds as well. They do thrive better in the more damp climates and will battle quite a bit in the high-temperature areas. Because of this, they might suffer from physical and behavioral problems.
Marans have orange eyes. Their shanks are pink or slate-colored. The soles of their feet are white and they have white skin.
What are the Pros and Cons of the Marans Chickens?
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Is the Marans Chicken a good choice for you?
- fanciers to do research on this chicken breed before you think about getting these birds.
- The Marans also make wonderful pets, being hard, quiet and calm, and they are able to tolerate confinement as well. They are good foragers as well, not being too destructive around the garden. In fact, they are best when being allowed to free-range
Marans chicken Care Guide
Maran chickens are a relatively easy breed to take care of. They are fairly hardy and can withstand cold weather, but they do not do well in hot climates. Marans also tend to be somewhat shy and skittish, so they may not be the best choice if you have young children or other pets in your home.
When it comes to feeding your Maran chickens, you will need to provide them with a high-quality chicken feed that contains all the necessary nutrients for their growth and development. You should also make sure to give them plenty of fresh water.
Marans do best in a large coop with plenty of space to move around as far as housing goes. They also like to have access to an outdoor area where they can forage for food.
If you take good care of your Maran chickens, they will reward you with delicious brown eggs. So if you’re looking for a chicken breed that lays tasty eggs, then Marans are a great choice!
FAQ: Marans Chicken
Are Maran chickens good layers?
Maran chickens are excellent layers, and they are also known for their dark brown eggs. Marans lay fewer eggs than some other breeds, but their eggs are usually larger and have a richer flavor. Marans are a great choice if you’re looking for a chicken that will provide you with delicious, high-quality eggs.
How can you tell a Maran chicken?
Maran chickens are easily distinguished from other chicken breeds by their dark plumage. The feathers on their backs and wings are a deep, chocolate brown color, while the rest of their body is a lighter brown. Marans also have a distinctive facial appearance, with large, bright eyes and wattles hanging below their beaks.
Are Maran chickens rare?
Maran chickens are not particularly rare, but they are not as common as other chicken breeds. Marans were originally developed in France, but they have since been exported to other countries around the world. However, they are still relatively uncommon in the United States.
Marans are a great choice if you’re looking for a chicken breed that will lay delicious brown eggs. However, they are not as common as some other chicken breeds, so you may have to search to find them. But the effort will be well worth it when you sit down to enjoy your first Maran egg!
Final Verdict: Marans Chicken
The Marans chicken is a great choice for anyone looking for a delicious brown egg. They are also a relatively easy breed to take care of, making them a great option for first-time chicken owners. However, Marans can be shy and skittish, so they may not be the best choice if you have young children or other pets in your home. But if you’re looking for a chicken that will provide you with tasty eggs, then Marans are a great choice!