Home / Breeds / Marans

Marans

Dark chocolate eggs — French quality in your backyard

Marans

The Marans is a French chicken breed renowned for its uniquely dark, chocolate-brown eggs. Marans eggs are among the most beautiful and sought-after in the poultry world.

The breed was developed in the French town of Marans in the 19th century. Marans chickens also have excellent meat quality, making them a true dual-purpose breed.

In Georgia, Marans are a rare breed. Chocolate-colored eggs are always in high demand and attract attention. The breed adapts well to Georgia's climate.

Characteristics

Marans
Hen weight2.7–3.2 kg
Rooster weight3.4–4.0 kg
Egg colorDark chocolate brown
Eggs per year150–200
Egg weight60–70 g
TemperamentCalm
Cold hardinessGood
BroodinessModerate
PurposeDual-purpose
Maturity (months)6–7

Egg Production & Incubation

Marans lay 150–200 eggs per year. The eggs are large (60–70 grams) — Marans eggs are bigger than most other breeds. The shell color is a deep chocolate brown, sometimes appearing almost red.

The dark color is a surface layer on the shell — washing the egg slightly lightens the color. Incubation: 21 days at 37.5°C. The thick Marans eggshell provides excellent protection.

Care Tips

Marans care is straightforward with minor specifics:

  • Housing: Standard coop. Marans are fairly active and need yard access.
  • Feeding: Standard feed. Calcium supplementation is especially important — the thick shell requires more calcium.
  • Winter: Handles moderate cold well. Extra insulation is advisable in severe frost.
  • Health: A healthy breed. Feather-legged varieties need regular foot checks.

Order from Jishiani Guli

Jishiani Guli offers Marans hatching eggs and chicks from Lagodekhi, Georgia. Our Marans are selected for egg color darkness and breed characteristics.

Phone: +995 591 515 082 Phone: +995 591 515 082

Frequently Asked Questions

The dark color is caused by protoporphyrin pigment coating the shell surface. Color intensity varies seasonally — eggs are darkest at the start of the laying cycle.

Marans lay 150–200 large, dark chocolate-brown eggs per year.

Marans are a pure breed with dark chocolate eggs, while Olive Eggers are a specialized hybrid that lay unique green-olive eggs.

Order Marans hatching eggs from Jishiani Guli with delivery across Georgia. Call: +995 591 515 082.

← All Breeds