White Face Spanish Black chickens are a breed with ancient origins, believed to date back to at least the Roman conquest of the Iberian Peninsula (218 BC–19 BC)—if not earlier. As one of the oldest Mediterranean breeds, they played a significant role in the development of the Mediterranean class of poultry and continue to captivate breeders and enthusiasts with their striking appearance and historical importance.
As a true Mediterranean breed, the White Face Spanish is highly heat-tolerant but less cold-hardy. Similar to breeds like the Minorca and Leghorn, they do not go broody, having lost that instinct through centuries of selective breeding focused on productivity. Therefore, to reproduce this breed, you will need an incubator or a broody hen from another breed.
Once considered among the most prolific egg layers in Europe, the White Face Spanish is no longer seen as a top producer, with hens laying around 160–180 large white eggs per year. This decline in productivity contributed to a drop in popularity, but dedicated conservation efforts and show poultry enthusiasts have kept the breed alive.
At Greenhills Country Farm, we are proud to support the preservation and revival of this rare and elegant bird, ensuring that it continues to be bred responsibly without inbreeding.
The White-Faced Black Spanish is truly a regal and unforgettable bird. It boasts tight, lustrous black plumage with a greenish sheen, a moderately flowing tail, and a tall, upright posture. But its most distinguishing feature is the large, white facial skin, dramatically contrasted against bright red wattles and comb. The breed also features dark slate legs and toes, dark brown eyes, and large white earlobes. Males have upright combs, while females often have floppy combs due to their size.
While not silent, the White Face Spanish makes up for its vocal tendencies with a combination of beauty, foraging ability, alertness to predators, and docile temperament. They also mature early, with hens starting to lay at about 20 weeks.
Although some individuals may display blue plumage, only the Black variety is officially recognized for poultry shows globally.
For those who value heritage breeds, enjoy rare and unusual poultry, or wish to support genetic conservation, the White Face Spanish Black is an ideal and rewarding choice.
Greenhills Country Farm is proud to breed and preserve this remarkable breed.
Availability: We plan to release White Face Spanish Black chicks for sale by the end of 2024.
