The Mystic Onyx is a gorgeous breed developed by Hoover’s Hatchery in recent years. Known for their striking black skin and beautiful feathers, these chickens were initially created as a meat bird but have quickly become a popular addition to backyard flocks. Their unique characteristics include 5 toes, a feather tuft on the top of their heads, and a blend of Silkie and meat production birds, giving them a one-of-a-kind look. This breed has truly taken the chicken-keeping world by storm, offering both beauty and functionality to any flock.
What Makes Mystic Onyx Chickens So Special?
Mystic Onyx chickens are truly stunning and make a beautiful addition to any flock. Created by crossing a Silkie with a meat production bird, this breed boasts a mix of unique and interesting characteristics. These chickens are easily recognizable by their black skin, jet-black feathers, and occasional feather tufts on their heads. They also have five toes, a feature inherited from the Silkie, and an all-black appearance that makes them stand out.
But there’s more to these chickens than just their looks. They often display iridescent hues in their plumage, which shimmer in the sun, creating a captivating eye-catching appearance. Mystic Onyx chickens can even show orange-red streaks in their feathers, adding to their charm. With their regal stature, graceful movements, and subtle variation in coloring, these chickens are not only beautiful but are also highly resilient, making them a fantastic choice for both beauty and productivity in your flock.
History of Mystic Onyx Breed
The Mystic Onyx is a relatively new, unrecognized breed, created by crossbreeding meat birds and Silkies. It was developed for its striking color and feisty personality, combining the qualities of Asian Blacks with the charming traits of Silkies. With their captivating beauty, Mystic Onyx chickens quickly gained popularity among show-chicken supporters and urban farmers. Today, they continue to stand out in both the show and backyard poultry communities for their unique appearance and lively temperament.
Excellent Egg Layers and Highly Resilient
The Mystic Onyx chickens are great layers, producing up to 225 light brown, medium-sized eggs per year. These hardy birds thrive in both winter and summer, maintaining consistent egg production even during the colder months. They are docile yet active and always in the middle of the action making them a friendly and low-maintenance addition to any flock.
This chicken breed is known for its impressive productivity providing owners with a steady supply of large brown eggs. While not broody, they are the perfect fit for those seeking reliable egg laying and a resilient breed.
My Experience with Mystic Onyx Chickens
I have had the pleasure of raising Mystic Onyx chickens in my flock from Hoover’s Hatchery, and they have been a fantastic addition. Frankie, one of my chickens, is completely black and a crowd favorite, while Dottie stands out with her unique reddish feathers.
These two are always easy to tell apart, and their personalities make them even more enjoyable. They are a fun addition to my flock, bringing variety and charm to my birds. What makes them even more special is how different they look from each other, making them a delight to have around.
Simple to Care for and Low-Maintenance
Mystic Onyx chickens are incredibly easygoing and low-maintenance. They typically weigh between 5-6 lbs. and are rarely broody, making them a great choice for those who don’t want high-maintenance birds. Their single comb helps them adapt well to both cold and warm weather ensuring they thrive throughout every season.
Whether in the winter months or during warmer seasons these chickens remain happy and healthy, making them a great addition to any flock. Their calm and resilient nature makes them perfect for all types of chicken keepers.
A social, healthy bird
The Mystic Onyx breed is a real sweetheart known for its charm and charisma. These sociable birds love the company of both humans and other animals, always curious and intelligent with a bit of a mischievous streak. Their energetic nature makes them a joy to watch but they need free roam for their health and happiness.
They are generally not chatty, preferring to mumble rather than shriek which makes them easy to care for. As hardy birds they can thrive in a variety of environments. Their small combs reduce the risk of frostbite, and while their black plumage can be a concern in high heat they are savvy at finding shade. Providing a well-ventilated, clean-living environment helps prevent potential issues ensuring that your Mystic Onyx stays healthy and happy.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Mystic Onyx Breed
Advantages |
Disadvantages |
|
Great Egg Producers |
Not a Broody Breed |
|
Hardy and Adaptable |
Moderate Egg Size |
|
Docile and Friendly |
High Heat Sensitivity |
|
Low Maintenance |
Feather Tufts Can Be Hard to Manage |
| Unique Appearance |
Not a Recognized Breed |
Pros and Cons of the Mystic Onyx Breed
Pros:
- Docile personality: Mystic Onyx chickens are known for being calm and friendly.
- Reliable egg producers: They lay up to 225 light brown eggs per year.
- Hardy in all seasons: They thrive in both winter and summer.
- Unique appearance: Their black plumage and occasional red streaks make them eye-catching.
- Low-maintenance: Mystic Onyx chickens are easy to care for and need minimal attention.
Cons:
- Not broody: Mystic Onyx chickens are not inclined to hatch eggs or raise chicks.
- Not great in very hot climates: Their dark feathers can cause problems in extreme heat.
- Egg color: While they lay light brown eggs, they are not as colorful or unique as some other breeds.
- Occasional mischief: They have a mischievous streak, which might require extra supervision.
- Not recognized as an official breed: While popular, they aren’t officially recognized by major poultry organizations.
FAQs About Mystic Onyx Breed
1: What makes Mystic Onyx chickens unique?
Mystic Onyx chickens are known for their striking black skin five toes and occasional feather tufts on their heads making them a visually captivating breed.
2: How big do Mystic Onyx chickens grow?
Mystic Onyx chickens typically weigh around 5-6 lbs., making them a medium-sized breed suitable for both meat production and as backyard pets.
3: Are Mystic Onyx chickens easy to care for?
Yes, Mystic Onyx chickens are low-maintenance, hardy and thrive in both cold and warm weather making them an easy choice for most poultry keepers.
4: How productive are Mystic Onyx chickens?
Mystic Onyx chickens are great egg layers, producing up to 225 medium-sized light brown eggs annually and maintain their egg production through different seasons.
5: Can Mystic Onyx chickens be kept with other breeds?
Yes, Mystic Onyx chickens are sociable, easygoing and get along well with other chickens making them a friendly addition to any flock.
Conclusion
The Mystic Onyx breed is not only known for its docile and friendly personality but also for its beautiful and colorful feathers. With their light brown eggs and reliable egg production they make a great addition to any flock. Their plumage is truly a showstopper, adding a stunning visual element to your chicken run. The multipurpose nature of this breed developed by Hoover’s Hatchery, makes them an excellent choice for any poultry keeper.
Their ability to adapt and thrive in various environments while producing eggs regularly is a big plus. The satisfying look of multiple colors in the egg basket and on your chickens will make you proud. If you’re looking for a chicken that combines beauty with function the Mystic Onyx is the perfect breed for your flock.
