Today, many types of black chickens with black meat have been bred. Despite their original appearance, such birds are not considered exotic today. Nevertheless, they are of steady interest among poultry farmers. To achieve success in raising this species of birds, they need to organize complete and high-quality care. At the same time, it is worth choosing the right breed depending on your goals and objectives.
History of origin
The black hens did not appear on their own. They are the result of long-term, long-term selection.As a result, it was possible to develop subspecies that have not only black feathers, but also dark skin, beak and even internal organs. Today there are many varieties of black birds known, which differ in appearance and the presence of white spots in their plumage.
general description
The main features of such chickens include the following:
- full or partial plumage black;
- black internal organs;
- dark beak color;
- black skin under feathers;
- dark meat.
Laying hens produce eggs of a standard color. Their color does not depend on the color of their skin or feathers. Black chickens were obtained through selective breeding. When black birds mate with regular ones, the offspring of a standard color is obtained.
Breeds of black chickens
Today there are many dark-colored chicken breeds known. Each of them is characterized by certain features.
Chinese silky
These birds are characterized not only by dark feathers, but also by the same skin, meat and bones. These chickens are raised in China as an ornamental breed. Moreover, their meat is considered a delicacy. The plumage is soft and silky in texture. Chickens are characterized by their low maintenance requirements. Meat contains substances that have a rejuvenating effect on people.
Uheiliyuy
The peculiarity of these birds is their original appearance. They are distinguished by a black body and the same insides. At the same time, the birds bring green eggs.
In addition, the birds have a glossy greenish tint to their plumage, have light bones and a V-shaped body. The birds have powerful wings and a strong chest. A characteristic feature of birds is the ability to fly.
Ayam tsemani
These birds are completely black in color. Earrings, meat, scallops, and bones have this shade.Birds are characterized by a small narrow body and a rounded chest. The wings fit tightly to the body. The birds are also distinguished by their bushy tail and long legs. Birds have a timid nature and easily panic.
Which one is better to choose?
Black chickens are divided into several categories:
- egg;
- decorative;
- meat and eggs.
Therefore, it is worth choosing birds taking into account the purpose. Moreover, all breeds have good egg production. Therefore, when choosing chickens, it is worth considering whether decorative properties are required, and whether the birds will need to be slaughtered for meat. Depending on this, it is recommended to choose a breed.
It is recommended to evaluate chickens according to the following parameters:
- weight;
- number of eggs;
- mass of eggs.
Meat varieties are considered heavier and are characterized by impressive size. If you plan to breed birds for eggs, it is worth considering their number and weight.
The productivity of birds can be increased. However, it is recommended to do this as carefully as possible. It is strictly forbidden to use chemicals for this purpose.
The only effective method is the introduction of vitamins and minerals into the feed. For birds to be more productive, they must have good quality food. Chickens also require quality care.
Useful properties of meat
Despite the not very attractive appearance of black chicken meat, it has a delicate and thin structure, and also contains many vitamins and amino acids. The original appearance and pleasant smell allow the product to be used in expensive restaurants.
The Chinese not only eat meat, but also use it for medicinal purposes. The product helps cope with pathologies of the lungs and gastrointestinal tract. It cleanses the blood and has a rejuvenating effect.Black chicken meat brings great benefits to the female body. It contains many valuable components. These include:
- vitamins of group B, A, E, C;
- globulin;
- kernosine peptide.
Chicken meat even helps cope with impaired mental development and helps build muscle mass.
Features of breeding and maintenance
Since black chickens are produced artificially, they almost completely lack the brooding instinct. To breed birds you need an incubator. It is important to give preference to equipment that has ventilation and a temperature regulator. It is best to choose an automatic incubator.
For 10 chickens, 1 rooster will be enough. It is permissible to cross different breeds. However, this will lead to the loss of the decorative characteristics of the birds. It is recommended to buy black chickens and eggs for breeding from specialized farms. It is also permissible to do this from breeders who have official registration. Failure to comply with this rule may result in the purchase of infected products.
To successfully breed black chickens, you will need proper nutrition and suitable living conditions. Thanks to this, it is possible to maintain normal health, high egg production, full development, and attractive appearance. When raising birds, it is recommended to follow the following rules:
- The basis of the diet should be granulated food.
- With the onset of puberty, birds can be given combined mixtures - usually after 20 weeks.
- Food must be available at all times. In this case, food is placed in feeders and scattered. Thanks to this, the birds will move more actively and peck the grains.
- For free-ranging birds, it is recommended to use granulated feed. This helps minimize the amount of contamination.
- The breeder will help you choose the optimal daily and feeding regimen.
- Chickens should be given crushed boiled eggs, whey, and cottage cheese.
- As the chicks develop, they begin to be given crushed cereals, greens, and mixed feed.
It is recommended to feed adult individuals with various grains, boiled and fresh vegetables, grass, hay, and tops. The presence of proteins in the diet is of no small importance. Their source can be worms, caterpillars and other insects. Birds also need fermented milk products. They should be given vitamins and minerals.
When introducing fermented milk products into the diet of birds, it is recommended to be careful to avoid upset of the digestive organs.
In order for birds to grow normally, they need calcium. Sources of this element can be shells, shells, chalk. Chickens should be fed three times a day. During the warm period, if free range is possible, the lunch meal can be removed. If you plan to raise birds for meat, the amount of food is increased.
Black chickens look very original and are very popular among breeders. To achieve success in raising these birds, it is recommended that they be provided with complete and comprehensive care.
