Chickens that lay black eggs include the Ayam Cemani, known for its unique all-black appearance and rare, dark-colored eggs.
Black chicken eggs are a hot topic among poultry enthusiasts, but misinformation abounds. While no chickens lay truly black eggs, some breeds produce dark brown or green eggs that may appear nearly black in certain lighting. Let’s separate fact from fiction and explore the fascinating world of dark-colored eggs.
The Myth of Black Chicken Eggs
Despite widespread claims online, no chicken breed naturally lays black-shelled eggs. The confusion stems from several sources:
- Photos of artificially colored eggs
- Misidentified dark brown or green eggs
- Misinformation about the Ayam Cemani breed
Ayam Cemani: The All-Black Chicken
The Ayam Cemani is a striking Indonesian breed with completely black feathers, skin, and even internal organs. Many assume these chickens lay black eggs, but they actually produce cream-colored eggs. This rare breed is prized for its unique appearance rather than egg color.
Darkest Egg-Laying Chicken Breeds
While true black eggs don’t exist, some chickens lay exceptionally dark eggs:
| Breed | Egg Color | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Black Copper Marans | Dark chocolate brown | Darkest chicken eggs available |
| Welsummer | Terracotta brown | Often with dark speckles |
| Barnevelder | Dark brown | Glossy shell surface |
Why Eggs Darken
Eggshell color comes from pigments deposited as the egg moves through the oviduct. The darkest eggs typically appear early in a hen’s laying cycle and may lighten over time. According to Cackle Hatchery, some Cayuga ducks can lay eggs with a temporary black coating that washes off.
Japanese Black Eggs: A Unique Tourist Attraction
In Japan’s Hakone region, white chicken eggs are boiled in sulfurous hot springs, turning them black through a chemical reaction. These kuro-tamago are a popular tourist item, with folklore claiming eating one adds seven years to your life.
Other Dark Egg Layers
While chickens don’t lay black eggs, other birds produce dark-colored eggs:
- Emus: Dark green eggs that can appear black in photos
- Cayuga Ducks: Eggs may start black but lighten over time
- Some wild birds: Ravens and crows lay dark speckled eggs
Creating a Colorful Egg Basket
If you want variety in your egg collection, consider these colorful layers:
- Ameraucana: Blue eggs
- Olive Egger: Green eggs
- Easter Egger: Various pastel shades
For more on egg colors, check out our guide on Plymouth Rock egg colors.
Caring for Dark Egg Layers
Chickens that lay dark eggs require the same care as other breeds:
- Provide proper nutrition with layer feed
- Ensure access to clean water
- Maintain clean nesting boxes
- Offer calcium supplements for strong shells
For tips on managing your flock, see our article on training chickens to use nesting boxes.