The Ayam Cemani is a rare breed known for laying black-shelled eggs, prized for their unique color and exotic appearance.
Black chicken eggs have become an internet sensation, sparking debates about their existence. While some poultry breeds produce uniquely colored eggs, true black eggs from chickens are extremely rare. Let’s explore the facts behind this fascinating topic.
The Truth About Black Chicken Eggs
Despite widespread claims, no chicken breed naturally lays pitch-black eggs. The Ayam Cemani, often associated with black eggs, actually produces cream-colored eggs. This rare Indonesian breed is completely black – feathers, skin, bones, and even internal organs – but their eggs follow standard chicken egg coloration.
Other dark-colored chicken breeds like Black Copper Marans lay deep chocolate brown eggs, but these still aren’t truly black. The darkest chicken eggs available come from Marans, which can produce eggs so dark they appear nearly black in certain lighting.
Ayam Cemani: The All-Black Chicken
The Ayam Cemani is perhaps the most striking black chicken breed. These birds exhibit:
- Jet-black feathers with a metallic sheen
- Black skin, muscles, and bones
- Black internal organs
- Black combs and wattles
Despite their dramatic appearance, Ayam Cemani hens lay cream or light pink eggs. The breed’s unique coloration comes from fibromelanosis, a genetic condition causing excessive black pigmentation.
Where Do Black Eggs Really Come From?
While chickens don’t produce black eggs, some other birds do lay dark-colored eggs:
| Bird | Egg Color | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cayuga Duck | Black to gray | Eggs start black but lighten with each laying |
| Emu | Dark green | Often mistaken for black in photos |
The Japanese Black Eggs of Hakone
Japan’s Hakone region produces famous black eggs through a unique process:
- Regular chicken eggs are boiled in sulfur-rich hot springs
- The sulfur reacts with iron in the water
- Eggshells turn charcoal black
- The inside remains a normal hard-boiled egg
Local legend claims eating one adds seven years to your life. These eggs, called “Kuro-tamago,” are a popular tourist attraction.
Chickens That Lay Colorful Eggs
While black chicken eggs may be mythical, many breeds produce beautifully colored eggs:
- Blue Plymouth Rock – Light blue eggs
- Ameraucana – Blue eggs
- Olive Egger – Olive green eggs
- Easter Egger – Various pastel shades
- Marans – Deep chocolate brown eggs
For more on egg colors, see our guide to Ayam Cemani egg colors.
Why the Black Egg Myth Persists
Several factors contribute to the ongoing black egg misconception:
- Photos of Ayam Cemani often get edited to show black eggs
- Dark brown Marans eggs can appear black in certain light
- Some sellers exaggerate claims to charge premium prices
- Internet rumors spread faster than facts
According to Poultry Producer, no poultry breed naturally lays black-shelled eggs. The closest is the Cayuga duck, whose eggs may start black but quickly fade to gray.
Caring for Unique Chicken Breeds
If you’re interested in raising chickens with unusual traits like the Ayam Cemani, consider these tips:
- Provide proper housing – learn about coop sizing
- Offer balanced nutrition for optimal egg production
- Protect from predators – their dark color makes them more visible
- Be prepared for higher costs – rare breeds command premium prices
While you won’t get black eggs, breeds like Ayam Cemani make stunning additions to any flock. Their unique appearance and rich history more than compensate for their ordinary egg color.
For more chicken care tips, check out The Frugal Chicken’s guide to unusual poultry breeds and their characteristics.