{"title":"Best Chicken Breeds for Beginners","description":"\u003cp\u003eOur Backyard Starter breeds are the perfect introduction to raising chickens, offering a balanced mix of hardy, easy-to-manage breeds ideal for beginners. These birds are selected for their adaptability, steady egg production, and low-maintenance nature, making them a great choice for first-time flock owners. With a combination of calm temperaments and dependable laying, this group helps take the guesswork out of getting started while still providing a rewarding backyard experience. Whether you’re looking for fresh eggs, a fun family project, or a simple way to begin your chicken-keeping journey, these breeds are  designed to set you up for success from day one.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"french-black-copper-maran","title":"French Black Copper Maran — Day-Old Chicks","description":"\u003cp\u003e📦 \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/how-we-ship\"\u003eLearn how we carefully pack and ship your chicks →\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf you've ever cracked open a dark chocolate-brown egg and wondered where it came from — it was probably a Maran. French Black Copper Marans are the crown jewel of the egg basket, laying some of the deepest, richest-colored eggs of any breed in the world.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy backyard keepers love them:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🥚 \u003cstrong\u003e150–200 dark chocolate eggs per year\u003c\/strong\u003e — the darkest of any laying breed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🪶 \u003cstrong\u003eStunning copper and black plumage\u003c\/strong\u003e — as beautiful in the yard as they are productive\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🌿 \u003cstrong\u003eHardy and self-sufficient\u003c\/strong\u003e — excellent foragers that thrive in free-range environments\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🐓 \u003cstrong\u003eCalm temperament\u003c\/strong\u003e — friendly enough for families, independent enough to manage themselves\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat to expect from Chesapeake Hatchery chicks:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOur Marans are sourced from carefully selected breeding stock for true-to-breed egg color and conformation. Marek's Disease vaccination is optional and is not included in the chick price. Select the vaccination add-on when ordering if you would like your chicks vaccinated. Chicks ship as straight-run unless otherwise noted. They're packed with care and backed by our live arrival guarantee.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeeks to first egg:\u003c\/strong\u003e 24–26 weeks\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEgg size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Large\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEgg color:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dark chocolate brown\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eReserve your spot for the next available hatch — Maran chicks sell out fast.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Hatchery","offers":[{"title":"Pullet (Female)","offer_id":43373741768910,"sku":null,"price":14.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Straight Run (Unsexed)","offer_id":43373741834446,"sku":null,"price":10.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Cockerels (Male)","offer_id":43373741899982,"sku":null,"price":8.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0665\/4643\/4254\/files\/French_Black_Copper_Maran_114534.png?v=1773235092"},{"product_id":"golden-laced-wyandotte","title":"Golden Laced Wyandotte — Day-Old Chicks","description":"\u003cp\u003e📦 \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/how-we-ship\"\u003eLearn how we carefully pack and ship your chicks →\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Golden Laced Wyandotte is the kind of bird that makes visitors stop and stare. Rich golden feathers edged in crisp black lacing — it's one of the most beautiful heritage breeds in existence, and it's just as practical as it is pretty.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy backyard keepers love them:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🥚 \u003cstrong\u003eApproximately 200 medium–large brown eggs per year\u003c\/strong\u003e — consistent, reliable production from a heritage breed built for the long haul\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🪶 \u003cstrong\u003eStunning gold and black laced plumage\u003c\/strong\u003e — a classic American breed that's been turning heads since the 1880s\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e❄️ \u003cstrong\u003eExtremely cold-hardy with a rose comb\u003c\/strong\u003e — minimal frostbite risk, ideal for northern climates\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🐓 \u003cstrong\u003eCalm and docile\u003c\/strong\u003e — easy to manage, integrates well into mixed flocks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🌿 \u003cstrong\u003eDual-purpose heritage breed\u003c\/strong\u003e — good for both eggs and the table\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat to expect from Chesapeake Hatchery chicks:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOur Golden Laced Wyandottes are selected for correct lacing, type, and temperament. Marek's Disease vaccination is optional and is not included in the chick price. Select the vaccination add-on when ordering if you would like your chicks vaccinated. Chicks are backed by our live arrival guarantee. Full lacing pattern develops as birds mature into adulthood.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeeks to first egg:\u003c\/strong\u003e 18–20 weeks\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEgg size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium–Large\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEgg color:\u003c\/strong\u003e Brown\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA timeless American classic — reserve your Golden Laced Wyandotte chicks for the next hatch.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Hatchery","offers":[{"title":"Pullet (Female)","offer_id":43373738787022,"sku":null,"price":7.49,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Straight Run (Unsexed)","offer_id":43373738852558,"sku":null,"price":4.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Cockerels (Male)","offer_id":43373738918094,"sku":null,"price":3.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0665\/4643\/4254\/files\/goldlacedwyandottehen.png?v=1777302249"},{"product_id":"rhode-island-red","title":"Rhode Island Red — Day-Old Chicks","description":"\u003cp\u003e📦 \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/how-we-ship\"\u003eLearn how we carefully pack and ship your chicks →\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf there's one breed that defined American backyard poultry, it's the Rhode Island Red. Hardy, productive, and adaptable — the RIR has been the go-to laying hen for generations of farmers and backyard keepers alike. There's a reason it's still one of the most popular breeds in the country.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy backyard keepers love them:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🥚 \u003cstrong\u003e200–300 large brown eggs per year\u003c\/strong\u003e — one of the top-producing heritage breeds, consistently reliable season after season\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🪶 \u003cstrong\u003eDeep mahogany red plumage\u003c\/strong\u003e — a bold, classic look that's instantly recognizable\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e❄️ \u003cstrong\u003eExtremely cold-hardy\u003c\/strong\u003e — built tough for all climates, from New England winters to Southern summers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🐓 \u003cstrong\u003eFriendly and beginner-friendly\u003c\/strong\u003e — calm enough to handle easily, independent enough to thrive with minimal fuss\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🌿 \u003cstrong\u003eDual-purpose heritage breed\u003c\/strong\u003e — excellent layers that also produce a quality table bird\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat to expect from Chesapeake Hatchery chicks:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOur Rhode Island Reds are selected from production-focused heritage lines for consistent egg output, correct type, and hardy temperament. Marek's Disease vaccination is optional and is not included in the chick price. Select the vaccination add-on when ordering if you would like your chicks vaccinated. Chicks are backed by our live arrival guarantee. A proven breed for a reason — these birds simply work.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeeks to first egg:\u003c\/strong\u003e 18–20 weeks\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEgg size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Large\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEgg color:\u003c\/strong\u003e Brown\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAmerica's favorite laying hen — reserve your Rhode Island Red chicks for the next hatch.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Hatchery","offers":[{"title":"Pullet (Female)","offer_id":43373692813518,"sku":null,"price":6.49,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Straight Run (Unsexed)","offer_id":43373692879054,"sku":null,"price":4.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Cockerels (Male)","offer_id":43373692944590,"sku":null,"price":3.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0665\/4643\/4254\/files\/rhodeislandredhen.png?v=1777296101"},{"product_id":"silver-laced-wyandotte","title":"Silver Laced Wyandotte — Day-Old Chicks","description":"\u003cp\u003e📦 \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/how-we-ship\"\u003eLearn how we carefully pack and ship your chicks →\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Silver Laced Wyandotte is one of America's original show breeds — developed in the 1870s and still turning heads today. Crisp silver-white feathers edged in bold black lacing, a compact rose comb, and a calm, steady temperament make this breed a perennial favorite for both show enthusiasts and backyard keepers.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy backyard keepers love them:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🥚 \u003cstrong\u003e200–240 large brown eggs per year\u003c\/strong\u003e — consistent production from a heritage breed that's built to last\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🪶 \u003cstrong\u003eStriking silver and black laced plumage\u003c\/strong\u003e — a bold, high-contrast look that stands out in any flock\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e❄️ \u003cstrong\u003eExtremely cold-hardy with a rose comb\u003c\/strong\u003e — minimal frostbite risk, ideal for northern climates\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🐓 \u003cstrong\u003eCalm and easy to manage\u003c\/strong\u003e — docile temperament, integrates well into mixed flocks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🌿 \u003cstrong\u003eDual-purpose heritage breed\u003c\/strong\u003e — good for both eggs and the table\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat to expect from Chesapeake Hatchery chicks:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOur Silver Laced Wyandottes are selected for correct lacing pattern, type, and temperament. Marek's Disease vaccination is optional and is not included in the chick price. Select the vaccination add-on when ordering if you would like your chicks vaccinated. Chicks are backed by our live arrival guarantee. Full lacing develops as birds mature — chicks will show their adult plumage over the first several months.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeeks to first egg:\u003c\/strong\u003e 18–20 weeks\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEgg size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Large\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEgg color:\u003c\/strong\u003e Brown\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA classic American show breed with real backyard utility — reserve your spot for the next hatch.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Hatchery","offers":[{"title":"Pullet (Female)","offer_id":43373667352782,"sku":null,"price":7.49,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Straight Run (Unsexed)","offer_id":43373667385550,"sku":null,"price":4.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Cockerels (Male)","offer_id":43373667418318,"sku":null,"price":3.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0665\/4643\/4254\/files\/silverlacedwyandottehen.png?v=1777320687"},{"product_id":"white-leghorn","title":"White Leghorn — Day-Old Chicks","description":"\u003cp\u003e📦 \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/how-we-ship\"\u003eLearn how we carefully pack and ship your chicks →\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf eggs are your priority, nothing beats the White Leghorn. These birds are the gold standard of egg production — lean, efficient, and relentlessly productive. They're the breed behind most commercial white eggs in the US, and for good reason: they simply lay more eggs than almost anything else.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy backyard keepers love them:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🥚 \u003cstrong\u003e280–320 large white eggs per year\u003c\/strong\u003e — among the highest egg production of any breed, period\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🪶 \u003cstrong\u003eClean white plumage with a bright red single comb\u003c\/strong\u003e — a classic, tidy appearance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e☀️ \u003cstrong\u003eHeat tolerant and efficient\u003c\/strong\u003e — their lean build means they eat less feed per egg than heavier breeds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🌿 \u003cstrong\u003eActive, alert foragers\u003c\/strong\u003e — thrive in free-range environments and are excellent at finding supplemental food\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e⚡ \u003cstrong\u003eEarly to lay\u003c\/strong\u003e — one of the fastest breeds to reach laying age\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat to expect from Chesapeake Hatchery chicks:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOur White Leghorns are selected from high-production laying lines for maximum egg output and feed efficiency. Marek's Disease vaccination is optional and is not included in the chick price. Select the vaccination add-on when ordering if you would like your chicks vaccinated. Chicks are backed by our live arrival guarantee. Note: Leghorns are an active, independent breed — they're not lap chickens, but they're unmatched in the egg department.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeeks to first egg:\u003c\/strong\u003e 16–18 weeks\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEgg size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Large\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEgg color:\u003c\/strong\u003e White\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe ultimate egg machine — reserve your White Leghorn chicks for the next hatch.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Hatchery","offers":[{"title":"Pullet (Female)","offer_id":43373673709774,"sku":null,"price":6.49,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Straight Run (Unsexed)","offer_id":43373673775310,"sku":null,"price":4.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Cockerels (Male)","offer_id":43373673840846,"sku":null,"price":3.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0665\/4643\/4254\/files\/whiteleghon_w_logo.png?v=1777758043"},{"product_id":"welsummer-day-old-chicks","title":"Welsummer — Day-Old Chicks","description":"\u003cp\u003e📦 \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/how-we-ship\"\u003eLearn how we carefully pack and ship your chicks →\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf you love a basket of richly colored eggs, the Welsummer deserves a place in your flock. This Dutch breed is known for its terracotta-brown eggs, often dotted with darker speckles, and its beautiful, earthy plumage. Picture these curious birds exploring your yard, then adding a little extra color to your morning egg collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy backyard keepers love them:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🥚 \u003cstrong\u003eApproximately 160–200 large brown eggs per year\u003c\/strong\u003e — prized for their rich terracotta tones and occasional darker speckles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🪶 \u003cstrong\u003eWarm brown partridge plumage with golden neck feathers\u003c\/strong\u003e — hens have a classic rustic appearance, while roosters display rich red and black coloring\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e☀️ \u003cstrong\u003eHardy and adaptable\u003c\/strong\u003e — well suited to backyard flocks with shelter, shade, and protection from weather extremes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🌿 \u003cstrong\u003eActive, curious foragers\u003c\/strong\u003e — enjoy exploring and finding supplemental food when given room to roam\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e⚡ \u003cstrong\u003eA rewarding heritage layer\u003c\/strong\u003e — valued for distinctive eggs rather than maximum commercial egg production\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat to expect from Chesapeake Hatchery chicks:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWelsummers bring attractive plumage, an alert personality, and richly colored eggs to your backyard flock. Marek's Disease vaccination is optional and is not included in the chick price. Select the vaccination add-on when ordering if you would like your chicks vaccinated. Chicks are backed by our live arrival guarantee. Note: egg color and speckling vary by hen and throughout the laying season; not every egg will be dark or speckled.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeeks to first egg:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 20–24 weeks\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEgg size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Large\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEgg color:\u003c\/strong\u003e Terracotta brown, sometimes speckled\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBring heritage charm and colorful eggs to your flock — reserve your Welsummer chicks for the next hatch.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Hatchery","offers":[{"title":"Pullet (Female)","offer_id":48427894440142,"sku":null,"price":7.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Straight Run (Unsexed)","offer_id":48427894472910,"sku":null,"price":5.49,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Cockerels (Male)","offer_id":48427894505678,"sku":null,"price":4.49,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0665\/4643\/4254\/files\/Welsummer_Pullet.png?v=1791219460"},{"product_id":"black-sexlink-day-old-chicks","title":"Black Sexlink — Day-Old Chicks","description":"\u003cp\u003e📦 \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/how-we-ship\"\u003eLearn how we carefully pack and ship your chicks →\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf a steady supply of brown eggs is at the top of your wish list, Black Sexlinks are a practical addition to your flock. These hybrid chickens combine dependable laying with striking black plumage, often accented by warm copper or gold feathers around the hens' necks. Picture them exploring your backyard, then filling your egg basket with fresh brown eggs. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy backyard keepers love them:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🥚 \u003cstrong\u003eApproximately 250–300 large brown eggs per year\u003c\/strong\u003e — productive layers for a well-stocked backyard egg basket\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🪶 \u003cstrong\u003eGlossy black plumage with copper or gold accents\u003c\/strong\u003e — hens bring rich color and contrast to a mixed flock\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e☀️ \u003cstrong\u003eHardy and adaptable\u003c\/strong\u003e — do well with suitable shelter, shade, and protection from weather extremes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🌿 \u003cstrong\u003eCurious, active foragers\u003c\/strong\u003e — enjoy scratching and exploring when given space to roam\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e⚡ \u003cstrong\u003eEarly-maturing layers\u003c\/strong\u003e — commonly begin laying around 18–22 weeks with appropriate nutrition and daylight\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat to expect from Chesapeake Hatchery chicks:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlack Sexlinks are hybrid chickens bred for reliable brown-egg production. Marek's Disease vaccination is optional and is not included in the chick price. Select the vaccination add-on when ordering if you would like your chicks vaccinated. Chicks are backed by our live arrival guarantee. Note: sex-linked refers to different male and female chick coloring in the appropriate parent cross; these hybrids do not breed true. Adult coloring, temperament, and production vary by bird and breeding line.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeeks to first egg:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 18–22 weeks\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEgg size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Large\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEgg color:\u003c\/strong\u003e Brown\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBring dependable brown-egg production to your flock — reserve your Black Sexlink chicks for the next hatch.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Hatchery","offers":[{"title":"Pullet (Female)","offer_id":48427898994894,"sku":null,"price":6.49,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Straight Run (Unsexed)","offer_id":48427899027662,"sku":null,"price":4.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Cockerels (Male)","offer_id":48427899060430,"sku":null,"price":3.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0665\/4643\/4254\/files\/Black_Sex_Link.png?v=1791216776"},{"product_id":"ayam-cemani-day-old-chicks","title":"Ayam Cemani — Day-Old Chicks","description":"\u003cp\u003e📦 \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/how-we-ship\"\u003eLearn how we carefully pack and ship your chicks →\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you want a flock that turns heads, the Ayam Cemani offers something truly distinctive. This Indonesian breed is known for its intensely black feathers, skin, beak, and legs, with plumage that can catch a green sheen in the sunlight. Picture these alert, elegant birds exploring your yard and bringing a dramatic contrast to your backyard flock. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy backyard keepers love them:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🥚 \u003cstrong\u003eApproximately 80–120 cream-colored eggs per year\u003c\/strong\u003e — kept primarily for their distinctive appearance rather than high egg output\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🪶 \u003cstrong\u003eStriking black plumage with an iridescent sheen\u003c\/strong\u003e — a memorable addition to a mixed flock\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e☀️ \u003cstrong\u003eA distinctive Indonesian breed\u003c\/strong\u003e — provide dry shelter and extra protection from cold and frost\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e🌿 \u003cstrong\u003eAlert, active birds\u003c\/strong\u003e — enjoy exploring in a secure run and benefit from patient, regular handling\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e⭐ \u003cstrong\u003eUnusual pigmentation\u003c\/strong\u003e — a genetic trait called fibromelanosis gives the breed its characteristic dark coloring\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat to expect from Chesapeake Hatchery chicks:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAyam Cemani bring an eye-catching appearance and an active personality to your flock. Marek's Disease vaccination is optional and is not included in the chick price. Select the vaccination add-on when ordering if you would like your chicks vaccinated. Chicks are backed by our live arrival guarantee. Note: pigmentation and breed traits vary between individual birds; this description does not guarantee show quality or breeding quality. Despite their dark coloring, Ayam Cemani lay cream-colored eggs, not black eggs, and hens may take breaks between laying cycles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeeks to first egg:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 24–28 weeks\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEgg size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEgg color:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cream\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdd a striking Indonesian breed to your flock — reserve your Ayam Cemani chicks for the next hatch.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Chesapeake Hatchery","offers":[{"title":"Straight Run","offer_id":48427912593614,"sku":null,"price":59.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0665\/4643\/4254\/files\/Ayam_Cemani_Hen.png?v=1791491382"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0665\/4643\/4254\/collections\/Generated_Image_January_26_2026_-_8_55AM.png?v=1769447015","url":"https:\/\/chesapeake-hatchery.com\/collections\/backyard-starter-breeds.oembed","provider":"Chesapeake Hatchery","version":"1.0","type":"link"}