Photo Credit: Hoover’s Hatchery
The Mystic Onyx breed was originally developed by Hoover’s Hatchery in very recent years. Their beautiful feathers and black skin are striking. While they were created to be a meat bird, they are taking backyard flocks by storm!
What Makes Mystic Onyx Chickens So Special?
Mystic Onyx chickens are absolutely stunning and make a great addition to any flock. This breed was created by crossing a Silkie with a meat production bird, giving them a mix of interesting characteristics.
Mystic Onyx chickens often have five toes (like Silkies), occasional feather tufts on their heads and black skin—traits that make them stand out in any flock.
While they may resemble the Ayam Cemani with their dark features, Mystic Onyx chickens sometimes have orange-red streaks in their feathers. They can also display an iridescent green sheen, adding to their eye-catching appearance. This subtle variation in coloring sets them apart from the all-black Ayam Cemani.
Dottie out “enjoying” the snow.
Great Egg Layers and Super Hardy
Mystic Onyx chickens aren’t just pretty—they’re also great layers! They can produce up to 225 light brown, medium-sized eggs per year, making them a fantastic addition to your flock. Plus, they’re hardy birds that do well in both winter and summer, keeping up their egg production even in colder months.
These chickens are docile yet active and always in the middle of the action in my flock. If you like having friendly chickens around that aren’t too high-maintenance, the Mystic Onyx is a perfect fit!
Frankie is my all-black Mystic Onyx and is a crowd favorite!
My Experience with Mystic Onyx Chickens
I have two Mystic Onyx chickens in my flock, both from Hoover’s Hatchery. Frankie is all black and a total crowd favorite, while Dottie has some reddish feathers that make her easy to tell apart. They’ve both been such a fun addition to the flock, and I love having two birds that look so different from each other!
Easy to Care for and Low Maintenance
Mystic Onyx chickens are pretty easygoing. They reach about 5-6 lbs. and rarely go broody, making them low-maintenance birds. With their single comb and ability to handle both cold and warm weather, they’ve done great for me through every season. Whether it’s snow or sunshine, they’re always happy and healthy.
Frankie as a chick
Why You Should Add Mystic Onyx Chickens to Your Flock
When I’m adding to my flock, I care most about the breed’s personality. I want nice, docile chickens who love me right back. Next, I look for egg color and feather color. There is something so satisfying about looking about and seeing multiple colors sprinkled about the chicken run. And honestly? There’s nothing better than having a bright and colorful egg basket sitting on the counter! Mystic Onyx chickens lay a beautiful light brown egg. It’s not a showstopper by any means, but their plumage makes up for it! Great job Hoover’s Hatchery for creating this multipurpose breed that is a very reliable egg producer!
Until next time,
–The Wing Lady
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