Black chickens are known for their striking, jet-black appearance. While most chicken breeds have white or brown feathers black chickens have feathers skin, bones and even internal organs that are entirely black. This rare trait makes black chicken breeds highly desirable – and expensive. But how much does a black chicken really cost?
The price of black chickens can vary dramatically based on the specific breed, age, rarity and place of purchase. Here’s what you need to know about black chicken costs:
The Most Expensive Black Chicken Breed: Ayam Cemani
The Ayam Cemani is a breed originating from Indonesia that is completely black due to a genetic condition called fibromelanosis Even its tongue, comb, wattles, toes and eggshells are black
Ayam Cemani is often called the “lamborghini of poultry” due to its sky-high prices:
- A single Ayam Cemani chick can cost $200 to $500.
- Adult hens may sell for $1,000 to $2,500 each.
- A rooster can fetch up to $3,000.
- Breeding pairs have sold for as much as $5,000.
These astronomical prices are driven by the Ayam Cemani’s extreme rarity. There are estimated to be less than 3,000 true Ayam Cemani in the entire world. Their exotic appearance and prestige value also contribute to the high cost of Ayam Cemani chickens.
Other Black Chicken Breeds and Prices
While the Ayam Cemani commands the highest prices, there are a handful of other black chicken breeds that are more affordable:
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Silkie Chicken – $25 to $100 per bird. Silkies have fluffy, silky plumage and black skin, but their feathers are more of a dark charcoal color.
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Swedish Black Chicken – $50 to $200 each. This breed has gorgeous iridescent black feathers.
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Black Sumatra Chicken – $30 to $150 per bird. The long tail feathers of the rooster (up to 3 feet!) add value.
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Kadaknath – $15 to $50 each. Kadaknath is an Indian breed with black feathers and black meat that is prized for its purported health benefits.
So while Ayam Cemani prices are out of reach for many, these other black chicken breeds provide more affordable options for between $25 to $200 per bird in most cases.
What Impacts the Cost of Black Chickens?
Several factors influence how much a specific black chicken will cost:
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Breed – Each breed has a different base price point For example, Silkies tend to be cheaper than Swedish Blacks.
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Age – Baby chicks are much cheaper (often under $10 each) than mature breeding adults.
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Rarity – Very limited populations or unusual color variations command higher prices.
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Genetics & Breeding Quality – Well-bred specimens from prize-winning bloodlines are more valuable.
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Seller Reputation – Chickens from top breeders or hatcheries cost more than backyard birds.
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Location – Prices fluctuate based on local availability and demand.
So the exact price depends heavily on the specific attributes of the bird. High quality Ayam Cemani roosters from a famous breeder will sell for thousands, while mixed-breed chicks from a local seller may go for just a few dollars.
Are Black Chickens Worth the Cost?
Since black chicken breeds are primarily kept as ornamental fowl, their worth depends on your specific goals:
Pros
- Unique appearance
- Conversation piece
- Prestige and bragging rights
- Breeding income potential
Cons
- Poor egg production
- Not cost-efficient for meat
- High purchase price
- Added care requirements
For backyard chicken enthusiasts who want a gorgeous black bird as a pet, the splurge may be justified. But those who prioritize egg-laying or meat yields may be better off with a more productive breed.
Where to Buy Black Chickens
Finding black chicken breeds for sale can be challenging due to their rarity. Here are some reputable sources to check:
- Specialty online hatcheries and breeders
- Local farms, breeders and poultry swaps
- Poultry shows and exhibitions
- Auctions and marketplaces like Craigslist
Be sure to thoroughly vet any source, ask for health certificates, and inspect the parent birds whenever possible.
Caring for Black Chickens
These unique fowl have some special care requirements:
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Housing: Minimum of 4 square feet indoor coop space per bird, with access to a secure outdoor run. Predator protection is a must.
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Climate: Most tolerate heat well but may need winter protection and draft-free coops. Silkies are especially prone to cold stress.
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Feed: High-protein feed, treats like mealworms, and fresh foraging material.
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Health: Isolation from other flocks to prevent disease transmission. Regular cleaning and sanitization.
With attentive care, many black chicken breeds like Silkies and Swedish Blacks can live long, healthy lives as backyard pets.
The Bottom Line
So how much does a black chicken cost? Anywhere from $5 for a common hatchery chick to over $5,000 for a prized Ayam Cemani breeding pair.
Factors like breed, age, genetics and seller reputation all impact the price. But ultimately, black chickens are luxury birds that are kept primarily for ornamental purposes. Their rarity and exotic status lets them command premium prices from poultry enthusiasts.
Ayam Cemani — $2,500
When discussing costly chicken breeds, one breed stands out: the Ayam Cemani. Not only is it the most expensive, but it also possesses exceptional qualities that make it truly unique.
The Ayam Cemani is highly valued due to a rare condition called fibromelanosis, which causes an excess of dark pigment. This results in the chicken’s meat, feathers, and even bones appearing entirely black. This striking appearance has earned it the nickname “Lamborghini chicken.”
Originating from Java, Indonesia, the Ayam Cemani is considered an exceptionally rare breed.
When it comes to their dietary preferences, Ayam Cemani chickens are not picky eaters. However, they do require a higher protein diet than most other chicken breeds due to their rapid growth rate.
Besides their taste and scarcity, Ayam Cemani chickens are renowned for their health benefits. The meat of Ayam Cemani chickens is well-regarded for being rich in protein and low in fat compared to other chicken breeds. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals looking to boost their protein intake and maintain a healthy diet. Additionally, Ayam Cemani eggs are thought to provide a range of health benefits.
For a healthy pair of this breed, expect to pay a whopping $5,000 (or $2,500 each)!
Despite their popularity among backyard chicken enthusiasts, the Ayam Cemani breed has yet to be officially recognized by the American Poultry Association.
Swedish Black — $100
Sweden seems to have a knack for producing some of the most expensive chicken breeds! Among them, the Swedish Black chicken stands out as a popular choice in northern states thanks to its ability to adapt well to the cold climate. These chickens are known for laying eggs even during the winter months.
Like the Ayam Cemani, the Swedish Black chicken owes its black color to a genetic mutation called fibromelanosis. This condition leads to excess dark pigment production, resulting in the chicken’s black appearance. However, when the sun hits their feathers, you may notice reflections of purple and green.
These birds are excellent foragers, demonstrating the skills honed over generations of free-range living enjoyed by their ancestors.
The high price of the Swedish Black chicken is primarily due to its rarity. According to a national poultry census in Sweden, there are fewer than 500 Swedish Black hens in existence. To put it into perspective, this breed is even rarer but less popular than the Ayam Cemani, making it one of the rarest chicken breeds worldwide. As a result, they can be sold for as high as $100.
Why Ayam Cemani Chickens Are So Expensive | So Expensive | Insider Business
FAQ
Why is black chicken meat so expensive?
It’s among the most expensive chicken breeds in the world. A fully grown chicken could cost you $2500. Believe it or not. The blackness is due to a genetic trait known as fibromelanosis in which the cells tend to have too much melanin. The breed is so rare and that’s why it’s so expensive.
Can you buy black chickens in the United States?
America’s Largest Exclusive Breeder of Pure Black Ayam Cemani. Our farm has over 5 generations of poultry experience and is the largest exclusive breeder of Ayam Cemani in the United States. FOR QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR ORDER CALL (334) 836-9100! Shop for day-old chicks!
How rare is a black chicken?
Ayam Cemani chickens, known for their entirely black appearance (including feathers, skin, and even internal organs), are considered rare. This is due to a dominant gene called fibromelanosis, which causes hyperpigmentation.
How much does a black chicken cost?
Because they are cold hardy they will also lay throughout the winter time. The high price of the Swedish Black chicken is mostly due to their rarity. To put into perspective this breed is much rarer than the Ayam Cemani and is one of the rarest in the world. $100 per chick. What breed is a black chicken?
What is black chicken?
Black chicken is a variety of chicken known as a Silkie chicken. These Silkie chickens have black flesh and bones and white feathers. Silkie chickens are frequently seen in China, India, and Southeast Asia. Black chickens are slightly gamier in flavor compared to the more common varieties of chickens because they are typically free-range.
What is the most expensive chicken?
You will be surprised to learn that the most expensive chicken is a rare black chicken with a price tag of $5000 for a pair. This absolutely black chicken is called Ayam Cemani and can boast not only a sky-high price but also an unusual appearance. Check out all 11 of the most expensive chickens and find out why they are so expensive.
How much does a chicken cost?
Many chickens can be had for about $5 a chick, but these breeds are in a different league entirely. Some of these breeds are exotic birds difficult to import, while others are so rare they’ve come close to being wiped off the map. Still others command high prices because they’re so coveted for their high-end meats or other unusual characteristics.
Why is black chicken price higher than regular chicken?
Black chicken price usually will higher than regular chicken, because it contains many benefit for health. Due to the black color of the meat, many people find the black chicken to be an odd food and tend not to consume it. Besides, some of black chicken price is also quite expensive that makes people feel so pity to consume.
Are black roosters profitable?
The fact is that pure breed chickens are the most profitable chickens to raise. They are 3 – 4 times more valuable than the hybrid egg-laying chicken. Pure breed chickens can go for thousands of pounds or dollars if you manage to breed excellent show quality stock or breeding pairs. How much do black roosters cost?