Description

Black Standard Old English Game Chicken

Breed History and Origin

Like many of its sister Old English breeds, the Black Standard Old English is one of the oldest chicken types in existence, with roots tracing back to European and Victorian-era game fowl. Known for their longevity, vigor, and natural instincts, Old English Game chickens have remained a staple among heritage poultry keepers. This variety is recognized by the American Standard of Perfection (1938) and is listed on the Livestock Conservancy Watch Status as a sustainable heritage breed. Cackle Hatchery® has been breeding and developing its own bloodline or strain of Old English Game Standard Chickens since 1974, focusing on health, structure, and consistency.

Appearance and Breed Characteristics

The Black Standard Old English is valued for its clean, solid black feathering and classic game fowl appearance. As adults, birds develop a rich, uniform black plumage, although younger birds may show some white feathers during early growth stages. It has a lean, athletic build with an upright stance and strong flight ability, along with a straight comb typical of the breed. Mature roosters typically weigh around 5 pounds and hens around 4 pounds, with pullets and cockerels slightly smaller. Its simple but bold coloration makes it a strong choice for both backyard flocks and exhibition.

Egg Production and Broodiness

This breed is considered a poor layer, producing approximately 120 small to medium cream or tinted eggs per year. However, hens are dependable setters and are well suited for brooding, hatching, and raising chicks. This makes them especially useful for maintaining a naturally reproducing flock. Fertility typically ranges from 40–55%, with a recommended mating ratio of approximately six females to one male.

Temperament and Backyard Suitability

The Black Standard Old English is active and flighty, with strong awareness and natural survival instincts. The breed is known for its gameness, and males can be territorial, requiring separation to prevent aggression. Hens are more manageable and are valued for their brooding ability. These birds perform best in free-range environments, where their agility and alertness help them evade predators more effectively than heavier breeds. They prefer higher roosting areas, typically 4 feet or more.

Production Positioning and Exhibition Use

This breed is best positioned as a heritage, free-range, and exhibition bird rather than a production layer. While they do produce eggs, their primary value lies in their durability, longevity, and natural reproductive ability. They are suitable for poultry shows in the “All Other Standard Breeds” Game Class and are often chosen by breeders maintaining traditional Old English Game lines.

Breeding Note / Color Note

Newbie Note: There are some white feathers in their 1st and 2nd stage feathering which is normal but by the 6th month they are solid black feathers. Maintaining consistent, deep black coloration in adulthood is important for exhibition quality.

Related Resources

NOTE: The Old English is photographed with a comb, ear lobes, and wattles dubbed (cut off). Entering a poultry show with non-dubbed males of the Old English breed is a disqualification. You can check your local or state poultry association/clubs for upcoming shows and check out your state fair poultry show dates. You would compete for ribbons with other breeds that are listed in the class “All other Standard Breeds.”

Many people who like this breed of chicken also like the miniature version of the breed (bantam), the Black Old English Game Bantam Chicken https://www.cacklehatchery.com/product/black-old-english-game-bantam/
Also may like Standard Old English Surplus. https://www.cacklehatchery.com/product/standard-old-english-surplus/

FAQ

Do Black Old English chicks have white feathers?
Yes, some white feathering in early stages is normal and will turn solid black by around 6 months.

Are Black Old English roosters aggressive?
Yes, males can be territorial and should be housed separately.

Are the hens good for hatching eggs?
Yes, hens are reliable setters and excellent mothers.

Do Black Old English chickens do well free ranging?
Yes, they are highly suited for free-range environments and are good at avoiding predators.

Are Black Old English chickens good for showing?
Yes, they are APA recognized and suitable for exhibition.