Crevecoeur Chickens: Breed Guide, Hen Eggs, Size, Care and Pictures

The Crevecoeur chickens are an elegant, rare heritage breed from Normandy, France. 

These chickens look lovely with their glossy black feathers, soft, rounded crests, and calm, steady personalities. 

If you want to raise chickens that are beautiful, historic, and a little different from the usual backyard breeds, the Crevecoeur will catch your eye immediately.

The Crevecoeur chicken breed has historical roots in French farming. For generations, they were loved for both meat quality and their stylish appearance. 

Today, they’re one of the rare chicken breeds in the United States, which gives the responsibility to farmers to keep the breed alive.

If you’re interested to learn all about Crevecoeurs, this guide will help. You’ll learn about their history and origin, appearance, color varieties, size, temperament, egg production, and the basics of Crevecoeur chicken care. 

Not only this, we will also talk about common health concerns, crest care, buying quality birds, and why these chickens play an important role in heritage-breed conservation. 

At the end, we have provided a FAQ section where you will get answers to the most common questions Crevecoeur chicken breed.

History and Origin of Crevecoeur Chickens

The Crevecoeur chicken originated from the Normandy region of France, which is popular for its rich farmland and long farming traditions. 

The name of this chicken is taken from the village Crève-Cœur-en-Auge, where it was developed and raised for generations. 

While exact early records are unclear, the Crevecoeur became well-known by the 1800s. It’s one of the Heritage French chicken breeds.

Early French farmers primarily raised Crevecoeur for its dual-purpose use. They provide good-quality meat and steady egg production. 

Their unique crest and upright stance also made them popular at local shows and in farm markets. 

Slowly, its popularity reached Britain and later the United States, where it gained attention among small-scale poultry keepers.

In 20th century, industrial chicken farming caused lots of challenges for most of the heritage chicken breeds. 

After the two world wars, there were severe population losses in France, which is also a major cause of the disappearance of Crevecoeur chickens.

Because of lots of efforts, Crevecoeurs are slowly making a comeback in the U.S. and other countries. But they still depend on dedicated keepers to survive.

Why Is Crevecoeur One of the Rare Chicken Breeds?

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The Crevecoeur chicken is considered rare today for several important reasons. 

First, they lay very few eggs and have a slow growing time as compared to modern commercial chickens. Also, nowadays farms are raising business-oriented breeds. They are raising hybrid breeds that give them high yield, like black sex-linked and Golden-sex-linked chickens.

Second, the breed suffered significant losses during the World Wars, especially in France. Many family flocks were destroyed, and only a small number of Crevecoeurs survived. Rebuilding the Crevecoeurs population hard and slow..

Not only this, but the global poultry industry is also focusing on only a few highly efficient breeds. This shift has caused many heritage chickens, including the Crevecoeur, to become rare or endangered.

Still, there are a few chicken lovers who are trying to keep the chickens to survive the breed. Thanks to them for their effort.

Lifespan of Crevecoeur Chickens

The Crevecoeur chicken has an average lifespan of around 6-8 years. This lifespan is almost the same of other heritage breeds.

Remember, you need to keep them healthy to reach a good life expectancy. Some can live longer with a stress-free life.

But the actual lifespan of the Crevecoeur chicken depends on several factors, including genetics, feeding, housing, and overall poultry management methods.

Crevecoeur Chicken Color Varieties

The Crevecoeur chicken is primarily known for its beautiful, black, shiny feather color. Black is the only color variety formally accepted by most poultry associations, including the APA. 

These chickens’ black feathers will usually take on a shiny, almost iridescent green color when in the right light, making for the most impressive Crevecoeurs in a flock. 

Hobbyists and breeders have mentioned getting blue and slate colored Crevecoeurs, although neither is considered, or not yet accepted, in the major show standards, and are rare to see in a flock. 

Any blue or slate colored Crevecoeur would more than likely be a result of small-scale breeding, or just a few genetic defects in their flock. 

If you are interested in showing or just preserving the breed, you should seek out the classic black Crevecoeur colors. 

Black not only recalls the history of the Crevecoeur chicken, but is also the most commonly accepted color in an exhibition and a conservation project.

Characteristics of the Crevecoeur Breed

The Crevecoeur chicken breed is easily recognizable based on its unique appearance. They have a thick, compact, balanced body with a broad chest and smooth, tight-fitting feathers.

The most obvious characteristic is the large, rounded crest of feathers on the top of the head, giving it an elegant and somewhat mysterious look.

Under the crest is a small V-shaped comb, at times referred to as “devil’s horn” comb. The crest may fully cover it, but typically, a well-bred bird would show the comb at least partially. 

Their faces, wattles, and earlobes are a bright red, which stand out against their deep black feathers.

Crevecoeurs have clean legs and four toes on each foot. They typically have slate or, at times, dark gray legs and a beak that is also dark horn color.

With their sheen of feathers, distinct head shape, and their confident demeanor as they walk, Crevecoeurs have a very elegant and refined look that will certainly catch your eye when you see them at shows or your backyard/flock.

Crevecoeur Chicken Personality and Temperament

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The Crevecoeur chicken has a reputation for calmness, gentleness, and good temperaments. 

The birds are friendly, preferring to stay with their flock and quietly observing their surroundings with curiosity. 

They usually become trusting and comfortable with handling and interaction when given the chance, which is a great fit for small family farms and backyards.

Crevecoeurs are active enough to enjoy foraging, but not high-flyers or overly established in flight. 

Their unique crest may reduce some side vision; thus, they may be slower and/or cautious in active environments. 

For this reason, they are generally appreciative of a predictable routine and calm handling, especially from children.

Roosters are somewhat more powerful than hens; however, most do not tend to be aggressive or mindlessly dominant. 

With any type of flock, it is important to notice their dynamics and intervene before any bird gets bullied or some become overly dominant.

Crevecoeur Hens Egg Production

The Crevecoeur chicken has a moderate production rate in terms of laying eggs, which is a good option for chicken keepers who seek heritage breeds and don’t value production as much.

Most hens will begin laying eggs around 5-7 months of age, depending on diet, available daylight, and overall health of the hen.

On average, a Crevecoeur hen lays about 100-150 eggs a year. This is lower than most commercial breeds, but it is the expected output that you can expect from rare heritage chickens. 

The eggs are typically a white to off-white color, and medium to large-sized eggs. The flavor is excellent – rich, clean, and exceptional in baking as well as an everyday cooked egg.

Crevecoeur hens will occasionally become moderately broody. Moderately broody hens will stop laying and/or substantially reduce the number of eggs laid for a brief period of time. 

However, being able to allow a hen brood and raise chicks can be a bonus for those interested in breeding or developing a self-sufficient flock.

While they do not produce in the top tier of egg quantity, Crevecoeur eggs are prized for their quality, and the hens are calm and allow for easy collection and care in daily chores with your flock.

Crevecoeur Chicken Size

The Crevecoeur chicken is a heritage breed that is of a typical heritage size and has a solid, balanced frame. 

Adult roosters generally weigh from 7-8 lbs, while females usually weigh 5-7 lbs, depending on breeding stock and husbandry practices. 

Their compact body shape, wider chest, and upright stance may make them appear heavier than their actual weight.

Pullets feathers and grow at a moderate rate. When they are nearing maturity, pullets usually weigh 4.5-5.5 lbs, and young male birds range from 5-7 lbs. 

Hatchlings are small birds (1.5-2oz range), and with constant feed and a clean brooder, they will steadily gain to a typical weight.

The Crevecoeur isn’t a large fowl or very light bird, making it best suited for backyard poultry. 

A bird of this size will fit well in most coops, whether it’s a standard layout, roost height, or feeders. The Crevecoeur is a rare, manageable breed suitable for the small farm or homestead.

Crevecoeur Appearance

The Crevecoeur chicken has an attractive and elegant appearance that distinguishes it from most backyard breeds. They are stout and barrel-shaped with broad chests, imparting a solid, confident look. 

Underneath the feathers, their skin is generally white, a shocking contrast to their solid black feathers.  

The feathers are sleek, tightly-fitting, and jet black with a brilliant green sheen in the sunlight.  

Without a doubt, one of the highlights of this breed is the large, rounded head crest of feathers. It gives the birds a character that can be curious, careful, or just dapper, depending on the bird, of course.

The V-shaped featherless comb behind the crest is certainly not large, but it is easily seen and distinctive.

Their rooster wattles lay close to the face and leg feathers, and add a touch of character to their appearance. Their shanks are clean (not feathered) and slate gray to dark gray in color; they also have 4 toes on each foot. 

Overall, the Crevecoeur chicken is memorable for their dark feathers, bright red head and facial characteristics, and the large head crest.  

All in all, this chicken has a refined appearance that is not easily mistaken with other similar-looking birds. Crevecoeurs are a standout for good reason!

Raising and Caring for Crevecoeur Chickens

Crevecoeur chickens are quite easy to raise, particularly if you have backyard poultry experience. They are sturdy birds, but as they are a crested breed and a rare breed, they do have some limitations. With proper management, they adapt very well to many environments and become a friendly, dependable part of your flock.

Here are the main things to consider: 

1. Housing:

Your Crevecoeurs need a clean, secure, and well-ventilated coop. It is particularly important to have good airflow to minimize moisture around their crest and help reduce the likelihood of respiratory issues. Allow at least 4 square feet per bird inside the coop, and provide outdoor space where birds can safely move, scratch, and explore. 

2. Diet:

A proper diet is very important. Feed them: 

• Chick starter (20-24% protein),
• Grower feed (16-18%),
• Layer feed for hens (16-18%)

Fresh water should always be available, as well as grit and oyster shell for laying hens. An excellent feed will promote feather quality, egg quality, and growth.

3. Foraging:

Crevecoeurs like to roam outdoors and make use of time spent in the yard or a fenced run. Foraging provides plenty of exercise and environmental enrichment, and can make the overall flock healthier, just as they will be fine in confinement if they are provided plenty of space and daily stimulation. 

4. Healthcare 

Regularly examine their crest for mites or insects and debris in the feathers. Keep their coop dry and keep bedding clean to avoid common poultry diseases. Observe your birds for changes in appetite, activity, or behavior and consult with a veterinarian if the problem persists. 

5. Socializing

Crevecoeur chickens are calmer in temperament generally, but regular gentle handling is key to their trust. Spend a few minutes each day with your birds to allow them to get used to you and make them easy to handle.

With proper care and the right environment, Crevecoeur chickens will flourish and will add beauty and personality to any backyard setup.

Buying Crevecoeur Chickens – Price and Availability

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Due to the fact that Crevecoeur chickens are a rare heritage variety, a little more effort may be required than obtaining other common backyard breeds to locate a quality bird. 

Large hatcheries do not have Crevecoeurs, so most people will turn to small breeders, poultry shows, heritage breed organizations, and conservation programs.

How to Find Them?

You might be able to locate a Crevecoeur by looking at:

• Reputable local breeders (even if small)
• NPIP-certified small hatchery
• Poultry show or exhibition
• Online breeder directory
• Heritage livestock club

Often, reputable breeders have healthier and higher-quality birds than hatcheries, which often just breed from stock obtained for mass production, as opposed to having a breeder that has birds bred for preservation.

Price Ranges

Prices for Crevecoeurs can vary greatly depending on the following:

• Age (chick, juvenile, or adult)
• Quality (pet-quality vs. breeding-quality vs. show-quality)
• Breeder reputation
• Location

Being a rare breed, expect blah, blah, blah? Charges might be higher for well-bred stock, and charges might be higher based on quality, ie, for show quality birds, charge premium prices. Do not expect the same price ranges as backyard chickens ($15-$30 range) because rare breed pricing can vary. Avoid specific price ranges, relying on availability and the abundance of birds. 

Before You Buy

• Ask for a picture of the parents and the flock.
• Ask for health records or NPIP certification.
• Observe the shape of the crest and condition of the feathers.
• Make sure to ask basic care or genetics questions and listen to the response.

With a bit of research and patience, you can find healthy Crevecoeur chickens and help support the preservation of this truly unique breed.

Major Problems in Raising Crevecoeur Chickens 

Keeping Crevecoeur chickens is enjoyable, although they can be challenging like any rare breed. Knowing about these challenges beforehand allows you to provide the best care.

Breeding Issues

Due to the newly rare breed status of Crevecoeurs, finding high-quality, unrelated breeding stock can be difficult, and limited genetic diversity can increase the likelihood of weakness and illness. Obtaining birds from reputable breeders and keeping detailed breeding records will assist in preserving many generations of strong, healthy breeding stock.

Temperament in Some Blood Lines 

Crevecoeurs are usually calm, although the unusual bloodlines may be a little skittish. The crest feathers, which obscure side vision, may make them more cautious in busy and noisy environments. To reduce stress, hold the birds gently and handle them consistently, and create a calm and non-stressful environment in the flock.

Sensitivity to Cold and Wet Weather

Crests can trap moisture from wet conditions; cold, wet weather may make them uncomfortable, and in the worst case, they may develop frostbite during extreme cold. To accommodate the comfort of the bird, ensure the coop is dry with no drafts and provides good ventilation.

Feather and Crest Health

Crests can harbor mites and, potentially, debris. Regular examinations, a clean coop, and dust bathing are very beneficial to avoid parasite issues. A quick trim of long crested feathers may improve vision and decrease accidents. 

Lower Egg Production

Crevecoeurs lay fewer eggs than commercial breeds. Again, they are better suited for people who appreciate heritage breeds, beauty, and conservation over eggs and meat. 

Conservation and Commitment

As a rare breed, Crevecoeurs benefit from owners who are willing to learn about conservation, join breed clubs, and communicate with other breeders. Good husbandry will protect the breed for future generations.

Exciting Facts About Crevecoeur Chickens

The Crevecoeur chicken is full of charm and history. Here are some fun and fascinating facts that make this breed stand out:

Ancient French Heritage

The Crevecoeur is one of the oldest known French chicken breeds, originating from Normandy. Its name comes from the village Crève-Cœur-en-Auge.

Striking Appearance

Their glossy black plumage and large, rounded crest give them a classy, almost regal look. In sunlight, their feathers often shine with a green tint.

Dual-Purpose Past

Historically, Crevecoeurs were raised for both meat and eggs, making them a true dual-purpose breed on farms long before industrial chickens existed.

Rare Breed Status

Today, Crevecoeurs are considered rare or at-risk, which makes every keeper part of an important conservation effort.

Crested Beauty

Their crest can sometimes limit vision, making them cautious at times — but it also gives them their signature, elegant look.

Great for Small Flocks

Despite their rarity, Crevecoeurs adapt well to backyard setups and do well in confinement if given space and enrichment.

Dedicated Preservation Efforts

Breed clubs and conservation groups work hard to rebuild the Crevecoeur population. Many keepers enjoy being part of this mission.

These facts highlight just how special the Crevecoeur chicken breed is — not just as a farm bird, but as a living piece of agricultural history.

FAQs About Crevecoeur Chickens

What is the meaning of “Crevecoeur”?

“Crevecoeur” comes from Crève-Cœur-en-Auge, a village in Normandy, France. The phrase can translate to “broken heart,” but in the breed’s case, it simply refers to the region where these chickens were developed. The name reflects geographic origin, not temperament or symbolism.

Are Crevecoeur chickens an old breed?

Yes. The Crevecoeur chicken is one of the oldest documented French poultry breeds. It was clearly described by the 1800s and likely existed long before that in rural Normandy. Its long history makes it an important heritage breed worth preserving today.

What do Crevecoeur chickens look like?

Crevecoeurs have glossy black feathers, a full rounded crest, and a small V-shaped comb partially hidden by plumage. Their legs are clean and slate-colored, and they have four toes, not five. Their elegant, upright posture and bright red facial features make them stand out.

Do Crevecoeurs come in colors other than black?

The recognized standard color is black, which features a greenish sheen. While some breeders occasionally produce blue or slate-colored variations, these are not widely accepted in official poultry shows. Most conservation programs prioritize maintaining the classic black variety for breed accuracy.

How many eggs do Crevecoeur hens lay per year?

Crevecoeur hens lay around 100–150 eggs per year, depending on care, diet, and daylight. Their eggs are white to off-white and medium to large in size. While not high producers, their eggs are valued for their quality and rich flavor.

Are Crevecoeurs good with children and pets?

Yes. Crevecoeurs are generally calm and gentle, making them suitable for families. Their crest can limit side vision, so sudden movements may startle them. With gentle handling and supervised interactions, they adapt well to children and even calm household pets.

Do Crevecoeurs need special care?

They require basic care plus a few extras. Their crest needs regular checks for mites and debris, and they do best in dry, draft-free coops. Aside from crest maintenance, their care is similar to that of other backyard chickens and manageable for most keepers.

Where can I buy Crevecoeur chickens?

Because they’re rare, Crevecoeurs are mainly found through heritage breeders, poultry shows, NPIP-certified farms,and dedicated breed clubs. Availability varies by season and location. It’s important to choose reputable breeders who prioritize health, proper breeding standards, and genetic diversity.

Are Crevecoeur chickens endangered?

Yes. The Crevecoeur is considered a rare or at-risk heritage breed due to its small global population. Conservation groups and dedicated breeders are working to rebuild numbers. Raising Crevecoeurs responsibly helps preserve an important piece of poultry history for future generations.

Summary

The Crevecoeur chicken is more than just a rare breed — it’s a living piece of French agricultural history. With their striking crest, glossy black feathers, and gentle temperament, Crevecoeurs bring charm and personality to any backyard flock. While they don’t lay as many eggs as modern commercial breeds, they make up for it with their uniqueness, calm nature, and ornamental value.

Raising Crevecoeurs does require a bit of extra attention, especially when it comes to crest care, parasite checks, and maintaining a clean, dry coop. But with the right setup and a consistent routine, these birds stay healthy and thrive in both small homesteads and family backyards.

Because Crevecoeurs are considered a rare or at-risk heritage breed, choosing to raise them also supports important conservation efforts. Every keeper plays a role in preserving their genetics and keeping this historic lineage alive. If you enjoy meaningful flock management, heritage breeds, and birds with a true story behind them, the Crevecoeur chicken is a rewarding and memorable addition to your farm or backyard.