Ayam Cemani

The Ayam Cemani is quite the incredible chicken - it’s rare and unusual, both inside and out, which makes it such a hot commodity as a luxury chicken.

Why is is so sought after?

This $2,500 chicken is the Lamborghini of the poultry world, only sold in pairs for $5,000. As quite possibly the rarest chicken in the world a $100 additional fee holds your place in the long line up to buy a pair of these exquisite chickens. Talk about eggsclusive!

The Ayam Cemani is sought after for a number of different reasons. On one hand, their sleek unusual appearance is a drawcard for exotic breeders who desire the most exclusive chickens for their flocks.

In some places such as their native Indonesia they are considered a ‘sacred’ animal, therefore are highly valued. This is because they are the crux of many myths and beliefs. Some say eating their meat will cure some disease. Others say they bring good fortune and luck to those who have them. Because they are believed to have all these mystical powers and fortunes, they have been used quite a lot in sacrifices and other rituals which doesn’t help their number count.

Where can it be found?

Unfortunately, Australians at this stage cannot count Ayam Cemani’s among the breeds in their flock - they are yet to be imported into Australia. These chickens are bred by dedicated breeders, and can be found in Europe, America and it’s native region of Indonesia. There are only around 3500 left in existence - so it’s not one that your local breeder is likely to have!

What's their personality like?

The Ayam Cemani's are friendly, likeable birds. The hens also tend to go broody, and make good mothers.

HISTORY

Origin: Indonesia

Size: 2-3 kg

Rarity: Incredibly Rare

Purpose: Meat & Eggs – More prominently for Dedicated Chicken Collectors

Recognized Variations: Black

EGG FACTS

Whitish pink medium eggs

80 Eggs Average Annually

FEATURES

The Ayam Cemani has above all else the most unique and fascinating features of all chickens, features so bizarre and rare that collectors are waiting periods of years in line for these beautiful additions to their flappy families. The entire exterior of the Ayam Cemani is pure black, including the comb, eyes, feathers, skin, beak and feet giving the bird a very sheik shiny look. More fascinating than this the organs, bones and meat of the Ayam Cemani is also pitch black.

BACKYARD BEHAVIOUR

Hardy in Winter: Yes

Especially Docile: Yes

Personality: The Ayam Cemani is quite gentle and are not flighty or skittish. Breeders inform us that there has been no trouble integrating these royal status chickens with an existing bunch, even groups of somewhat different ages.

Whilst we can’t get the Ayam Cemani here in Australia, there are plenty of other impressive chickens such as the Hamburg and Barred Plymouth Rock that we can have as pride of place in our backyard flocks. If you're someone who favours a fine flock, give your splendid birds an equally impressive coop - the Mansion hutch and run looks spectacular in any backyard, and will guarantee your beautiful flock a life of luxury and elegance.

With so many stunning breeds to choose from, it can be eggtremely confusing and difficult to find the perfect match for you and your family. From looks, to personality, to egg-laying talents - where should you begin?

Cluckily, our friends over at Chickenpedia have created an amazing Chicken Breeds Course. This extensive online course shares useful advice on choosing the right chickens for you as well as size & frequency of eggs laid. You’ll even learn about their individual personalities, and be able to use their family-friendly compatibility scale through this well-structured program. It really is a great way to find your perfect backyard buddies which is why I highly recommend them to all of my readers! The courses are beginner-friendly and filled with vital information to help you raise a happy, healthy flock.

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Sources and further reading