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Copper

Blue Copper Marans

4.7 years old

Blue Copper Marans

“Lays chocolate eggs, takes no nonsense.”

Egg Production

Slowing Down1/wk

Production tapering off

First egg

Slowing

Retired

4.6yr

Not laying
Peak
Good
Declining

Egg Color

Chocolate Brown

Fun Facts

✦Lay some of the darkest eggs of any breed — a rich chocolate-brown that can appear almost red-brown
✦Egg color is darkest at the start of a laying cycle and gradually lightens; the hen "uses up" pigment over successive eggs
✦Crossing a Blue Copper Marans with a Cream Legbar produces an Olive Egger — hens that lay olive-green eggs
✦Marans eggs are so prized that the French Marans Club sets a minimum color standard for the breed.
✦The 'Blue Copper' pattern occurs when the blue dilution gene acts on black — no two birds look exactly alike.

About

A striking French breed with blue-laced feathers and copper hackles, prized for laying some of the darkest chocolate-brown eggs of any breed.

The Marans breed originated in the marshy port town of Marans, France, likely from crosses of fighting game birds with local marsh hens and later Langshans. The blue copper color variety was developed in France in the 20th century. Marans were imported to the UK in the 1930s and gained a devoted following when their dark chocolate eggs became fashionable among chefs.

Care Considerations

Feathered feet require dry bedding and run conditions to prevent bumblefoot and scaly leg mites; inspect feet weekly. Relatively calm temperament. Egg production is moderate (150–200/year) — they trade quantity for egg quality. Cold-hardy.

Details

Species

chicken

Sex

female

Hatch Date

2021-08-29

Status

Living

Processing Weight

—

Size

Large Fowl

Egg Quantity

~3 / week

Egg Color

Dark chocolate

Heat Tolerance

Moderate

Cold Tolerance

Hardy

Personality

Calm & gentle

Journal

Feb 14, 2026

First chocolate egg from Copper! The color is unreal — deep dark brown.

Jan 31, 2026

Copper has been keeping to herself more than usual. Watching for any signs of illness.

Jan 17, 2026

She roosts highest in the coop every night. Very particular about her spot.