Black
Animal identity

Recognize what makes this population itself.

Adult feathers are black with a green sheen; young poults may show temporary pale or bronze feathers before adult plumage develops. Pink adult shanks and dark eyes accompany the characteristic color. Calm disposition and early maturation were historically important utility selection goals.

The Conservancy's reference profile describes large eggs with pale cream to medium brown with spotting shells. These descriptions help compare the population's traditional farm role; actual performance also depends on age, breeding line and management.

Appearance introduces the animal; a registry standard explains a documented breeding population. A photograph, color or familiar informal name alone cannot establish every individual’s membership.

Recorded roles

Meat

Egg Color

Pale cream to medium brown with spotting

Egg Size

Large

Market Weight

14 – 23 lbs

Temperament

Highly dependent on selection by breeder, Some select for aggressive, others docile

Reference values from the breed’s conservation profile. Weight describes a reference animal, not a universal feeding or fitness target. Temperament varies with breeding, individual experience and handling.