Black Copper Marans

Marans come from France where they were developed in the 13th century along the Atlantic coast. They are named after a port town. The breed was created by crossing various breeds that came in from ships. They first were introduced into the USA sometime around the end of WWII. There are some varieties that have clean-legged (non-feathered) flocks, but the American Standard calls for feathered feet. Marans are most famous for their large, dark chocolate-russet eggs and it is their defining characteristic. Black Copper Marans have reddish bay eyes and a single comb. The hens have deep copper along their neck feathers that has a dark stripe through each feather. The rest of their body is black. The roosters have a deep copper color on their neck hackle feathers, back, and saddle feathers. The wings and tail are black with luster.