Ayam Cemani chickens lay medium-sized, cream to light brown eggs, typically with a smooth texture and a slightly glossy finish.
Ayam Cemani chickens are famous for their all-black appearance, but their egg color surprises many. These exotic birds lay cream or light pink eggs, not the black eggs some expect. This article explores everything about Ayam Cemani eggs and what makes this breed unique.
What Color Eggs Do Ayam Cemani Chickens Lay?
Despite their completely black appearance, Ayam Cemani hens lay cream-colored eggs. The eggs are typically small to medium in size with a light beige or pinkish tint. Some eggs may have a slight gloss to them.
Here’s what to know about their eggs:
- Egg color: Cream or light pink
- Egg size: Small to medium
- Annual production: 60-100 eggs
- Laying pattern: Irregular, with breaks
Why Don’t They Lay Black Eggs?
The fibromelanosis gene that makes Ayam Cemani chickens black doesn’t affect egg color. Eggshell color comes from different pigments deposited as the egg forms in the oviduct. While their feathers, skin, and even bones are black, their eggs follow normal chicken egg coloration patterns.
Ayam Cemani Egg Production
Ayam Cemani hens aren’t known for high egg production. They lay fewer eggs than commercial breeds and take frequent breaks. Their laying pattern is different from most chickens.
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| First year production | 60-100 eggs |
| Egg size | Small to medium |
| Laying season | Spring and summer |
| Broodiness | Very broody |
These hens often lay 20-30 eggs then stop for weeks or months. This irregular pattern makes them poor choices for consistent egg production. If you want reliable layers, consider Blue Plymouth Rock chickens instead.
Breed Characteristics Beyond Egg Color
Ayam Cemani chickens are remarkable for more than just their egg color. Their all-black appearance makes them one of the most unique chicken breeds.
Physical Traits
- Completely black feathers with metallic green/purple sheen
- Black skin, muscles, and bones
- Black comb and wattles
- Medium size: 4-7 pounds
Temperament
These chickens are generally friendly but can be flighty. Roosters are protective but not usually aggressive. Hens tend to be vocal when choosing nesting spots and often go broody.
Caring for Ayam Cemani Chickens
Proper care helps these exotic birds thrive. Their needs differ slightly from standard chicken breeds.
Housing Requirements
Ayam Cemani need:
- Secure, predator-proof coop
- Good ventilation
- Extra winter protection (they’re sensitive to cold)
- Plenty of roosting space
For help introducing new chickens to your coop, see our guide on introducing chickens to a new coop.
Diet and Nutrition
Feed them:
- High-quality poultry feed (18-20% protein for layers)
- Crushed oyster shells for calcium
- Grit for digestion
- Occasional treats like mealworms or fruit
Common Questions About Ayam Cemani
Why Are They So Expensive?
Ayam Cemani chickens cost $50-$500 due to:
- Rarity
- Unique appearance
- Cultural significance
- Challenging breeding
Are They Good for Beginners?
Their special needs make them better for experienced chicken keepers. Beginners might prefer hardier breeds like Rhode Island Reds.
Where Did They Originate?
Ayam Cemani come from Java, Indonesia. “Ayam” means chicken and “Cemani” means completely black in Javanese. They were first documented in the 1920s and became popular internationally in the 1990s.
Myths About Ayam Cemani Chickens
Several misconceptions exist about this breed:
- Myth: They lay black eggs (truth: cream eggs)
- Myth: Their blood is black (truth: it’s red like other chickens)
- Myth: They’re aggressive (truth: they’re generally friendly)
For more chicken myths debunked, check out our article on why chickens peck holes in their eggs.
Breeding Ayam Cemani Chickens
Breeding these chickens requires special attention:
- Select birds with the blackest features
- Cull birds with silver feathers in hackles
- Check chicks for black tongue and toes
- Expect about 70% hatch rate
According to Greenfire Farms, toe pads and nails may darken in the first few weeks after hatching.
Cultural Significance
In Indonesia, Ayam Cemani are considered mystical and lucky. They’re sometimes used in rituals and traditional medicine. Their rarity and striking appearance have made them status symbols in some cultures.