Ayam Cemani

An entirely black chicken from Indonesia, the Ayam Cemani is one of the most visually striking breeds in existence — every part of the bird is black: feathers, skin, comb, wattles, meat, bones, internal organs, and even blood that appears darker than normal. This complete melanism is caused by the fibromelanosis gene, the same mutation found in Silkies and Svarthöna, but the Ayam Cemani takes it to its most extreme expression. Originating on the island of Java, where it is revered in traditional mysticism and used in rituals, the Ayam Cemani was little known outside Indonesia until the late 20th century. It has since become one of the most expensive and sought-after ornamental chicken breeds in the world, with breeding pairs sometimes selling for thousands of euros. The EE has recently recognised the Ayam Cemani under the Europastandard. It lays tinted eggs and is kept purely as an ornamental and prestige breed.