Black Jersey Giant Chicken

Breed History and Origin

The Black Jersey Giant Chicken originated in Burlington County, New Jersey, during the 1880s. The breed was developed as a large meat-producing chicken during a time when poultry producers wanted a bird that could compete with turkey for table meat. The Black Jersey Giant was later admitted to the American Standard of Perfection in 1922.

Today, the breed is considered a sustainable heritage chicken breed with recovering conservation status. Cackle Hatchery® has been developing its production-type Black Jersey Giant bloodline since 1979, focusing on maintaining size, temperament, and steady egg production while keeping birds practical for backyard and small farm use.

Size, Growth, and Meat Production

The Black Jersey Giant is known as the largest of the dual-purpose chicken breeds. While they grow slower than many modern production breeds and have a lower feed-to-weight conversion ratio, they eventually surpass many breeds in overall body size and meat yield.

Mature hens typically weigh around 10 pounds, while roosters average about 13 pounds, with some males from the Cackle Hatchery® bloodline reaching 11 to 14 pounds. Pullets generally weigh about 8 pounds, and cockerels about 11 pounds.

Because of their slower growth rate, they are not typically used in modern commercial broiler production. However, they remain highly valued in homestead and heritage meat programs.

Egg Production and Performance

Black Jersey Giant hens are considered fairly good laying hens for such a large-bodied breed. They typically produce about 180 to 260 large brown eggs per year, depending on management and environment.

They are classified as a primary production bird that can serve as both an egg layer and secondary meat source.

Appearance and Breed Characteristics

Adult Black Jersey Giants have rich black feathering that often shows a green sheen in sunlight, giving the birds a glossy appearance. Both black and white varieties are known for having willow-colored or nearly black legs and toes.

During early growth stages, chicks may show some white feathers during first and second stage feathering. This is normal, and by about 6 months of age, the bird typically develops fully black feathering.

Temperament and Backyard Suitability

Black Jersey Giants are generally considered docile and easy to manage, especially for a bird of their size. Their calm nature makes them a good choice for backyard flocks and small farms where larger birds are desired.

Because of their large size, they are less flighty and easier to contain than lighter Mediterranean-type breeds.

Flock Management and Breeding

Black Jersey Giants typically perform best with a breeding ratio of about nine females to one male. Fertility commonly ranges between 65 and 80 percent, with chick gender accuracy typically falling between 80 and 85 percent when professionally sexed.

They prefer roost heights between two and four feet, which is typical for heavier breeds. Many hens will go broody and can make good mothers.

Availability and Additional Resources

Cackle Hatchery® offers the production-type Black Jersey Giant and does not currently offer an exhibition line of this breed.

To learn more about how this breed compares to similar black-feathered production birds, check out our blog article:
Chicken Breed Spotlight: Australorp or Black Jersey Giant

At limited times of the year, we also offer Black Jersey Giant Fertile Hatching Eggs.

Black Jersey Giant Chicken FAQs

How big do Black Jersey Giant chickens get?
They are the largest dual-purpose chicken breed. Roosters typically reach about 13 pounds, with some reaching 11 to 14 pounds.

Are Black Jersey Giant chickens good egg layers?
Yes. They typically produce 180 to 260 large brown eggs per year, which is strong production for such a large breed.

What color eggs do Black Jersey Giants lay?
They lay large brown eggs.

Are Black Jersey Giant chickens friendly?
Yes. They are generally docile and calm, making them good backyard and homestead chickens.

Are Black Jersey Giants good meat chickens?
Yes. They were originally developed for meat production and still excel in homestead meat programs, although they grow slower than commercial broilers.