Sumatra (chicken)

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The Sumatra is a breed of chicken native of the island of Sumatra. Chickens were originally imported from Sumatra in 1847 to the U.S. and Europe for the purpose of cockfighting, but today the breed is primarily kept for exhibition. 1883 is the year the Black Sumatra was first inducted into the American Standard of Perfection.

[edit] Characteristics

All Black Sumatras are pitch black with a green sheen, in the sunlight, throughout the body and tail. Black is the most common variety, but it additionally comes in blue and white colors. Males usually weigh between 4 and 5 lbs. Females lay about 100 white eggs a year. Both males and females have no wattles. The females weigh 3 1/2-4lbs. The breed is considered a primitive one; the Sumatra retains a strong flying ability, unlike most modern chicken breeds.

[edit] References

• The American Standard of Perfection (2001), American Poultry Association

• Ekarius, Carol (2007). Storey's Illustrated Guide to Poultry Breeds. 210 MAS MoCA Way, North Adams MA 01247: Storey Publishing. ISBN 978-1-58017-667-5. 

[edit] External links

• American Sumatra Association