Svarthöna

Svarthöna, often called the Swedish Black Hen, is a Swedish fibromelanistic chicken with black plumage, dark skin, and dark connective tissue. It is related in broad trait type to other black-skinned chickens but has its own Scandinavian landrace identity. Birds are usually small to medium sized, active, and valued for rarity, appearance, and adaptation to northern small-flock keeping.

Svarthöna breeders should select for deep pigmentation, vigor, fertility, and the practical qualities that keep a flock healthy beyond its color. Dark skin alone is not enough to prove breed identity, so source records are important. These chickens need normal care, with dry winter housing, predator protection, and balanced feed. In cold climates, choose birds with sound combs and good livability. Because numbers can be limited, avoid repeated close breeding without a plan.