Some chickens are flashy because they're colorful.
Swedish Black Hens get your attention by doing the exact opposite. Their feathers, combs, skin, legs, and even their beaks are black, giving them a striking look that's hard to miss. Then the sun hits their feathers, and you catch hints of green and purple that make you stop for a second look.
But looks aren't the reason we love them.
These birds are hardy, alert, and full of personality. They're always paying attention to what's going on around them, and they're one of those breeds that's just plain enjoyable to watch. They've earned their reputation over generations of surviving in the rugged Scandinavian climate, so they're more than just another pretty face.
Around here, they're one of those breeds visitors always ask about. If you're looking for a rare heritage chicken with an interesting history and an unforgettable look, Swedish Black Hens are an easy breed to fall in love with.
Breed Characteristics
Country of Origin: Sweden. A rare heritage landrace with deep Scandinavian roots.
Size: Hens average 2.2 to 3.3 pounds. Roosters average 3.3 to 4.4 pounds. Small, agile, and sturdy.
Egg Production: Around 130 to 150 off-white to light beige eggs per year.
Egg Size: Small to medium.
Personality: Alert, intelligent, active, and somewhat independent.
Broodiness: Moderate. Many hens will go broody and can make good mothers.
Climate Adaptability: Cold-hardy and resilient, with good adaptability when given proper shelter and management.
Chick Ordering & Shipping Details
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Shipped at One Day Old
Chicks are shipped at one day old. At this stage, they are still absorbing nutrients from their yolk sac, which allows them to safely travel during the first 48–72 hours after hatch.
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Straight Run Only
Chicks are sold unsexed, so you’ll find out who’s who as they grow.
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Minimum Order of 6 Chicks
Start with at least six chicks, or mix and match breeds to build your flock.
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Express Shipping (Read This Part)
Chicks ship on Monday or Tuesday via USPS Priority Express, the fastest option available, but delivery is NOT guaranteed overnight.
- Most shipments take 2–3 days in transit depending on USPS routing and handling.
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We pack every shipment with:
• 72-hour heat packs (when needed for temperature safety)
• Gro-gel for hydration and nutritional support during travel
- Chicks are prepared to travel within this window, but delays can happen.
Please only order if you are comfortable with this shipping timeline.
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Flat rate shipping: $85
We do not ship to Hawaii at this time.
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Local Pick-Up Option
Local pick-up is available at an off-site location on the advertised ship date.
Our Commitment to Quality
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Extra Chicks When Available
When possible, we include bonus chicks. Sometimes that may mean an extra from another breed. If you have preferences, leave us a note at checkout.
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NPIP-Certified & A/I Clean
Our flock meets National Poultry Improvement Plan standards under participant #31-1508 (Tina Hines).
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Preservation-Focused Breeding
We prioritize hardiness, function, and long-term sustainability, not just appearance.
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Virtual Farm Connection
We do not offer public farm visits, but we’re happy to share photos, updates, and support so you feel connected to your flock’s origin.
Before You Order
We begin preparing your hatch as soon as your order is confirmed. That includes reserving incubator space and scheduling your hatch.
Cancellations made more than 3 weeks before your scheduled ship date will receive a full refund.
Cancellations within 3 weeks of your scheduled ship date are subject to a $10 non-refundable prep fee, as resources have already been committed to your hatch.
We’re not a factory farm, every chick matters. Thank you for supporting responsible, small-scale breeding.
Note: This policy applies to chick orders only.