French Copper Marans Chickens: A Guide to This Unique and Valuable Breed
Introduction
French Copper Marans are a highly sought-after breed known for their rich, dark brown eggs and striking plumage. Originating in France, these chickens are valued not only for their egg-laying ability but also for their hardiness, temperament, and dual-purpose qualities.
This article will cover the history, characteristics, egg production, benefits, challenges, and care requirements of French Copper Marans.
History of the Marans Breed
The Marans breed originated in the town of Marans, France, in the early 20th century. It was developed by crossing local French fowl with imported game birds, creating a hardy and productive chicken known for its deep red-brown eggs.
The breed gained popularity among European farmers and was eventually recognized as a standard breed. Today, French Copper Marans are admired worldwide for their beautiful feathering, large size, and gourmet-quality eggs.
Physical Characteristics
French Copper Marans are distinct due to their elegant appearance and copper-accented plumage.
Breed Standard Traits:
• Plumage: Black with iridescent green sheen and copper-colored hackles (neck feathers).
• Eyes: Reddish-orange, giving them an alert look.
• Comb: Medium to large single comb, bright red.
• Wattles & Earlobes: Red, well-developed.
• Legs & Feet: Slate blue or black, often with slight feathering (a key feature distinguishing “French” Marans from English Marans).
• Size: Medium to large; hens weigh 6.5–7 lbs, roosters 8–9 lbs.
The feathered legs are a distinguishing characteristic of the French variety, as opposed to English Marans, which have clean legs.
Egg Production: The Famous Chocolate Eggs
One of the main reasons French Copper Marans are so prized is their rich, dark brown eggs—often described as “chocolate eggs.”
Egg Characteristics:
• Egg Color: Ranges from deep reddish-brown to chocolate brown, often with speckles.
• Egg Size: Medium to large.
• Egg Production:
• 150–200 eggs per year (3–4 eggs per week).
• While they don’t lay as frequently as hybrid breeds, their unique egg color makes them highly valued.
• Thick Shells: Their thicker shells help improve egg longevity and protection from bacteria.
These eggs are considered a gourmet delicacy, often sought after by chefs and high-end markets.
Temperament and Behavior
French Copper Marans have a balanced personality, making them a great choice for both small farms and backyard flocks.
• Docile & Friendly – They are generally calm, making them good for beginners.
• Roosters Are Protective – They can be assertive but not overly aggressive.
• Good Foragers – They thrive in free-range settings and actively seek food.
• Cold Hardy – Their dense feathering makes them well-suited for colder climates.
While they can tolerate confinement, they prefer free-ranging and do best with ample space.
Benefits of Raising French Copper Marans
1. Highly Sought-After Dark Eggs – Their eggs are unique in color and quality.
2. Beautiful & Hardy Breed – They have striking plumage and adapt well to different climates.
3. Dual-Purpose Chickens – They provide both eggs and high-quality meat.
4. Friendly and Easy to Handle – Ideal for family farms and small flocks.
5. Disease-Resistant – Marans are generally hardy birds with strong immune systems.
Challenges of Raising French Copper Marans
• Slower Egg Production – They lay fewer eggs than hybrid layers like ISA Browns.
• Genetic Variation in Egg Color – Not all Marans lay the darkest eggs, so selective breeding is necessary.
• Require Quality Breeding – To maintain egg color, size, and feather quality, careful breeding is needed.
• Higher Cost & Rarity – True French Copper Marans can be expensive due to their popularity.
Caring for French Copper Marans
- Housing & Space Requirements
• Coop Space: 4–5 square feet per bird inside the coop.
• Run/Free-Range Space: 10–12 square feet per bird in an outdoor run.
• Roosting Bars: Wide, sturdy bars to support their larger size. - Diet & Nutrition
• Starter Feed (0-8 weeks): 20-22% protein for strong chick development.
• Grower Feed (8-18 weeks): 16-18% protein to support steady growth.
• Layer Feed (18+ weeks): 16% protein with added calcium for eggshell strength.
• Supplements:
• Oyster shell – Essential for strong eggshells.
• Grit – Helps with digestion, especially for free-range birds.
• High-Protein Treats – Mealworms, sunflower seeds, and fermented grains support feather quality. - Health & Wellness
• Common Issues:
• Leg Mites – Their feathered legs make them slightly more prone to mites.
• Frostbite in Cold Climates – Protect combs with petroleum jelly in winter.
• Parasite Prevention – Regular deworming and dust baths help maintain health. - Breeding Considerations
Breeding French Copper Marans requires attention to:
• Egg Color Selection – Choose hens that consistently lay the darkest eggs.
• Leg Feathering Consistency – The French standard includes feathered legs.
• Plumage Quality – Maintain rich copper hackles in roosters.
Many breeders selectively cross darker egg-laying hens with well-colored roosters to improve overall flock quality.
Conclusion
French Copper Marans are an exceptional choice for poultry keepers who want a breed that is both beautiful and functional. Their deep chocolate-colored eggs, stunning feathering, and hardy nature make them a top choice for both small farms and large breeding operations.
While they require careful selection for egg color and genetics, their friendly temperament and unique egg production make them well worth the investment.
