11/29/2025
Fibromelanism (black skin) is one of our favourite chicken traits! Not only does it look visually striking, but there are actually also a few biological advantages to this trait:
- Better UV protection. Melanin is known to absorb ultraviolet radiation, reduce oxidative stress caused by UV exposure, and protect tissues from DNA damage.
-Potentially enhanced disease resistance. Heavily pigmented tissues sometimes show higher resistance to certain bacterial or fungal infections, tougher, more resilient skin, less visibility to certain ectoparasites.
-Better frostbite protection. Pigmentation in the skin absorbs heat more effectively than light skin birds. This can result in slightly warmer combs/wattles and reduced frostbite risk in cold climates.
-Camouflage advantage. Dark combs and waddles (rather than bright red) can help to reduce visibility to predators. This effect is magnified if the bird also has dark feathers.
-Better healing and tough skin. Melanin acts as a natural antioxidant, improved cellular protection during heat, disease, or injury challenges. Highly pigmented skin tends to be thicker, more fibrous, and more resilient to abrasions and skin injuries. The tissues may also have faster wound closure and resistance to infection at injury sites due to melanin’s interaction with immune and inflammatory pathways.
Do you have any “fibro” chickens in your flock? If you’re hoping to add some, stay tuned for our 2026 pullet sale releases. we will be announcing the dates within the first few months of the year.
