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The Ayam Cemani is one of the world's most extraordinary chicken breeds, admired for its striking all-black appearance and remarkable genetics. Originating in Indonesia, this rare breed carries the fibromelanosis (Fm) gene, which causes extensive black pigmentation throughout much of the body—including feathers, skin, legs, comb, wattles, beak, muscles, and many internal tissues.
At Sugar Feather Farm, our Ayam Cemani are thoughtfully raised through a conservation-focused breeding program that emphasizes overall quality rather than simply producing black birds. Every generation is evaluated for pigmentation, structure, vigor, temperament, and long-term breeding potential while maintaining healthy genetic diversity.
Whether you're looking for a foundation breeding bird, an exhibition prospect, or an unforgettable addition to your flock, the Ayam Cemani remains one of the most fascinating breeds in poultry.
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Why Choose Sugar Feather Farm Ayam Cemani?
Award-Winning Bloodlines
Our Ayam Cemani breeding program has produced multiple APA award-winning birds, including Best of Breed and Reserve Best of Breed. These accomplishments reflect our commitment to continually improving the breed through thoughtful conservation breeding, careful selection, and responsible flock management.Our breeding program focuses on preserving and continually improving this remarkable breed.
We selectively breed for:
Strong fibromelanosis (black pigmentation)
Rich beetle-green feather sheen
Correct breed type and balanced structured
Healthy, vigorous birds
Calm, manageable temperaments
Long-term breeding quality
Genetic diversity through responsible conservation breeding
Our birds are raised on our custom non-GMO feed program, vaccinated for Marek's Disease, and provided both indoor shelter and outdoor access as they mature naturally.
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One of the rarest chicken breeds in the world
Stunning all-black appearance
Beautiful green iridescent feather sheen
Intelligent and curious personalities
Excellent conversation piece and ornamental breed
Suitable for breeding and exhibition
Raised in our humane conservation breeding program
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Sugar Feather Farm is committed to preserving rare poultry breeds for future generations.
Rather than breeding solely for appearance, we evaluate each generation using multiple criteria including:
Pigmentation quality
Breed type
Structural correctness
Overall health
Temperament
Reproductive performance
Genetic diversity
Our goal is continual improvement while maintaining the integrity of this extraordinary breed.
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Our Ayam Cemani starter pullets have been raised on Sugar Feather Farm's custom nutrition and health program to support healthy growth, feather quality, and overall vitality.
For the smoothest transition, we recommend continuing a similar feeding program after your birds arrive.
We recommend:
Sugar Feather Farm Chicken & Waterfowl Grower Feed until approximately 16–18 weeks of age, then transition to our Mixed Flock Layer Feed once hens begin laying.
Provide fresh, clean water at all times.
Support birds during times of stress, shipping, molt, or flock introductions with our Vita Boost Kit, which includes Amino Complex, Vita-Pro-B, and Replamin to promote hydration, recovery, and overall health.
Add our Oil of Oregano with Piperine to drinking water as part of a proactive wellness program to support digestive and immune health.
House birds in a clean, predator-secure coop with adequate ventilation and outdoor access whenever possible.
Quarantine new birds before introducing them to an existing flock, and integrate gradually to minimize stress.
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Ayam Cemani are alert, intelligent, and observant birds that quickly learn routines and often become surprisingly interactive with their caretakers.
While naturally attentive to their surroundings, well-socialized birds are generally calm and enjoyable to manage. They integrate well into mixed flocks when introduced properly and make excellent additions for poultry enthusiasts seeking a rare and engaging breed.
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The Ayam Cemani originated on the island of Java, Indonesia, where it has been valued for centuries for its striking appearance and deep cultural significance. The breed's name comes from the Javanese language—"Ayam" meaning chicken and "Cemani" referring to the village of Cemani in Central Java, where the breed is believed to have originated.
The breed's extraordinary black coloration is caused by a naturally occurring genetic trait called fibromelanosis (Fm), which results in extensive black pigmentation throughout much of the bird's body. While often surrounded by folklore and myths, the Ayam Cemani is prized today by poultry enthusiasts, conservation breeders, and exhibitors worldwide for its rare genetics, distinctive beauty, and historical importance.
Although still considered uncommon outside its native homeland, responsible conservation breeding programs have helped preserve and improve the breed while maintaining the unique characteristics that make the Ayam Cemani one of the world's most recognizable and sought-after chicken breeds.
Humane Steward™ Certified
This bird is raised under farmer-developed humane care standards focused on space, enrichment, respectful handling, and natural behaviors.

