A black chicken with a red comb and wattles, standing outdoors on a farm with other chickens in the background. The farm appears to have a dirt ground and a wooden fence. The image includes the logo and text for Marusyna Farm.

Black Australorps are a beloved heritage breed known for their beautiful glossy black feathers with a green beetle-like sheen, excellent egg production, and calm, friendly personalities. Developed in Australia from Black Orpington stock, they were bred to be a productive and practical farm chicken. Australorps are famous for their impressive laying ability, gentle temperament, and ability to thrive in a variety of climates.

Black Australorp

A close-up of a black rooster with a red comb and wattles, standing on snow near a wooden fence

Egg Color: Light brown to medium brown
Egg Size: Large
Age of Lay: Around 5-6 months
Eggs per Week: 5-6 eggs
Eggs per Year: Approximately 250-300 eggs (exceptional layers may produce more)

Origin: Australia

Egg Laying Ability: EXCELLENT one of the best heritage breeds for egg production, especially when well cared for

Broodiness: LOW to MODERATE some hens may become broody, but they are generally more focused on laying

Meat Production: GOOD a dual-purpose breed with a solid body and quality meat

Cold Tolerance: EXCELLENT heavy body and dense feathers help them handle colder weather well

Heat Tolerance: GOOD tolerate heat better than many heavy breeds, but shade and fresh water are still important during hot weather

Predator Evasion: GOOD alert and aware birds, though they are not as fast or agile as lighter breeds

Foraging Ability: EXCELLENT active foragers that enjoy free ranging

Tolerance for Confinement: EXCELLENT adaptable birds that do well in coops and runs while still enjoying time outdoors

Temperament: Gentle, calm, friendly, and easy to handle

Aggression Toward Flock Members: VERY LOW usually peaceful and often fit well in mixed flocks

Noise Level: MODERATE hens are generally quiet, while roosters have a strong, classic crow

Rooster: 8-10 lbs
Hen: 5-7 lbs

Common Colors:
Black (most recognized), Blue, and White

Average Lifespan: 6-10 years

Beginner Friendly: Yes! one of the best breeds for beginners, families, and first-time chicken keepers

Our Experience at Marusyna Farm:
A close-up of a woman smiling with a small black and white chick near her face.

Black Australorps are the perfect example of a chicken that is both beautiful and hardworking. Their shiny black feathers catch the sunlight with a gorgeous green shimmer, making them stand out in the flock. We love their calm personalities, dependable egg production, and friendly nature. At Marusyna Farm, they remind us that a great farm chicken doesn’t have to choose between beauty and purposE - they can have both

Several chickens standing in the snow inside a fenced outdoor area with a wooden gate and trees in the background.
Several chickens, including black, white, and speckled, gathered on a farm. They are near a wooden structure with a sign that reads 'MARUSYNA FARM' at the bottom.
A black chicken standing on green grass in a wooded area.
Close-up of a young chick with black, white, and fluffy gray feathers, resting on a person's hand.
Close-up of a black chicken with a red comb and wattles, looking into the camera with a blurred natural background.
A black chicken walking on snow-covered ground in a wooded area, with trees and patches of snow in the background.
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