Kadaknath

The Kadaknath is an Indian black-meat chicken from western Madhya Pradesh, especially associated with the Jhabua and Dhar region. It is also known locally as Kali Masi, meaning black flesh, because fibromelanosis darkens the skin, meat, bones, and connective tissue. Kadaknath birds are usually active, hardy, and relatively lean, with dark plumage that may appear jet black, penciled, or golden depending on the strain. The breed is valued for specialty meat, local identity, and adaptation to village conditions.

Kadaknath chickens suit smallholder and backyard systems when they have secure night shelter, dry ground, and enough range or pen space to forage. They are not the same as fast broilers, so buyers should expect slower growth and a different carcass. Breeders should protect dark tissue expression, vigor, fertility, and source integrity, especially because demand can encourage casual crossing. Good nutrition during brooding is important, but the breed's strength is its ability to perform outside highly intensive systems. Authentic stock should come with a clear origin story, not just black feathers.

Colors: Barred, Birchen, Black, Blue, Brown, Buff, Columbian, Crele, Cuckoo, Duckwing, Gold, Gold Laced, Laced, Lavender, Mille Fleur, Mottled, Partridge, Penciled, Porcelain, Red, Silver, Silver Laced, Spangled, Splash, Wheaten, White