History:  Named after the French town of Marans in France, this breed was imported into Britain in approximately 1929.  The Maran is made up of breeds such as Croad Langshan, Faverolles, barred Rock and Brakel.

Characteristics:  An active bird with a medium length body, the front broad, full and deep.  A single upright comb and a smooth face.  Shanks clean and unfeathered.

Plumage: Fairly tight, silky texture.  Each feather is marked across with bands of blue/black.

Why do we keep Marans at The Garden Hen? They are well known for their beautiful dark brown eggs.

Eggs: Dark brown.

Classification:  Heavy/soft feather.

Weight: Male 3.60kg (8lb), Female 3.20kg (7lb)