The dark bird of Indonesia

There are countless breeds of poultry across the world but none quite like the completely black Ayam Cemani.

The chickens’ striking black appearance has given it a mystical reputation in its native region of Central Java, where these birds are traditionally used in black magic rituals.

But it’s not all black magic for these black chickens, Meaghan Crooks explores the present day use of Indonesia’s Ayam Cemani and how they get their distinctive colour.