10 Rare & Exotic Chicken Breeds

All chickens are unique and special in their own ways, but some breeds are just downright exotic! From being completely black “goth” breeds to featuring every fancy feather-do imaginable, these exotic chicken breeds are as special as their appearances suggest. These rare chickens are hard to find and acquire, but that makes it all the more important for these breeds to be preserved by both breeders and backyard poultry enthusiasts alike.

If you’re looking to expand your feather family, you may want to consider one of these extraordinary chicken breeds.. if you can find one!

#1. Svart Hona
A Svart Hona rooster
Purpose: exhibition, eggs

Origin: Sweden

Personality: active, can be flighty, good foragers, friendly but not docile

Appearance: black plumage and facial features, single comb, clean-legged

Special Features: The Svart Hona is a medium-sized breed that is most recognized because of its unique fibromelanistic appearance. The Svart Hona is one of two chicken breeds who are completely fibromelanistic, the other being the Ayam Cemani. Being fibromelanistic means that the bird is completely black including its feathers, skin, bones, and meat.

Svart Honas are known to be very cold hardy and excellent foragers. The hens make good broody mothers and the cocks are protective but friendly. Svart Hona hens are excellent layers of medium-sized, creamy white eggs.