French Cuckoo Marans

Description

French Cuckoo Marans are heritage, dual purpose chickens.   The Marans breed originates from a town called Marans, France.  Its a very winter hardy breed with a docile temperament.  They are growing increasingly popular as many claim they lay the darkest eggs of all Marans varieties.    Their feather pattern is similar to that of the Barred Plymouth Rock.  However, the barring pattern between the black and white stripes is more irregular and appears to be a blurred, jagged pattern.  The adult female French Cuckoo Marans is a much darker bird than the adult male.  French Cuckoo Marans males have a higher percentage of white feathers than the females.  Their combs, waddles, and ear lobes are always red, and their eyes are orange.   When looking at adult Marans from the side, you’ll notice that their bodies make a distinct V shape.   Most French Marans have feathered legs but some may have very little feathering.  French Marans are a very hearty breed making them desirable in all climates.   Marans eggs are often described as the color of dark chocolate, and they can sometimes look dark red.  In general, the fewer eggs a chicken lays, the darker they’ll appear.   Also, the eggs at the beginning of the laying season are usually the darkest, and they get lighter as the season goes on.  Some eggs also have speckles on them, but it’s less common.  Marans eggs are considered fairly large.  French Marans tend to be very healthy are resistant to most diseases.  French Cuckoo Marans are friendly and make great yard birds that love to free range.   Adding these to your flock will also add beautiful dark brown eggs to your egg basket.

Sexing is only about 75%-80% accurate.  We suggest buying Straight Run chicks.

200+ Dark Brown Eggs/Year | Mature Wt: Male 8#, Female 6.5#

• Poultry Show Class: Continental Class
• Weights: Hen:  6 1/2 lbs         Rooster:  8 lbs
• Purpose and Type: Production, Eggs & Meat; Pet
• Color of Egg Shell: Dark Brown #3 to #6 Range on chart
• Egg Production: 200+ eggs per year
• Egg Size: Large
• Temperament: Docile
• Gender Accuracy: 75-80%
• Broody: Setter
• Country of Origin: France
• APA: No