Marans Information

Full Overview

Marans originate from Marans, a town located in France. These birds stand out from other varieties due to their beautiful eggs. Marans produce large eggs that are a rich, chocolate brown colour, making them highly attractive and unique. However, while mainly known for their eggs, Marans were originally developed for meat production, making them a great dual-purpose breed.

 

Marans come in both standard and bantam varieties, with standard varieties weighing 2.5-4kgs (hens ~ 2.75kg; roosters ~ 3.75kg) and bantams weighing 0.7-1.5kgs (hens ~ 0.8kg; roosters ~ 1.1kg). While there are many colours of Marans to love, there are 9 colours that are recognised in the French Standard of Perfection. The most common of these colours are cuckoo and black copper, but also include black, black birchen, black-tailed buff, Columbian, white, wheaten and golden cuckoo. 

 

When it comes to egg production, there is a trade-off between quality and quantity of Marans eggs. While some Marans may lay almost daily, these eggs are more likely to be of a lighter pigment than those which lay 2-3 times per week, which generally produce a rich, chocolatey brown egg colour.

 

Marans are generally noted to be gentle by nature and are able to exist within flocks of other smaller varieties of birds. It is best to keep Marans free range if possible, as without adequate exercise, they are prone to gaining weight. Additionally, Marans are relatively winter hardy and are able to tolerate moderately warm temperatures, however having some available shade is recommended.