Making My Own Splash Colored Chickens: Blue/Black/Splash Genetics Guide

In a nutshell, it's what happens when you breed two blue birds together. Your offspring will have either blue (50%), black (25%) or splash (25%) colored plumage.

Usually, this breeding has no impact on egg color with the exception of Marans. In our barn, the black Marans always have the darkest egg color when we hatch the blue/black/splash (BBS) combination. In our Orpington's there is no discernible difference in egg color.

The Blue - Black - Splash Breeding Chart shows what you can expect from your next breeding project. It doesn't matter which is the Roo/Hen.

Blue Black Splash Chicken Genetics Chart

Breeding blue poultry can be an exciting challenge. You might think that breeding blue chickens will give you only blue chicks, but genetics has a few surprises in store! Understanding the genetic makeup behind these colors can help you plan better and get the results you want. If you are curious about how to navigate breeding blue, black, and splash chickens, you’re in the right spot!

Understanding Blue Genetics

Let's break down blue poultry colors. The blue color results from a dilution gene acting on black. When you breed blue chickens, don’t expect a uniform outcome. Instead, you can anticipate three main color outcomes: blue, black, and splash.

Here is a quick overview:

Blue: The dilution of black.
Black: The dominant coloration that does not dilute.
Splash: A lighter version of blue that appears in larger patches.

This variability makes your breeding strategy essential. By understanding these genetic combinations, you can increase your chances of achieving desired results in color.

The Color Combinations Explained

Blue x Blue

Breeding two blue chickens does not guarantee all blue chicks. Statistically, you will get about 50% blue, 25% black, and 25% splash. Imagine opening a colorful surprise each time you hatch! This blend keeps breeding interesting and visually appealing.

Blue x Black

Pairing a blue chicken with a black one is more straightforward. You can typically expect 50% blue and 50% black chicks. This combination is excellent for boosting the blue gene in your flock while also producing robust black birds.

Blue x Splash

Crossing a blue chicken with a splash results in a similar outcome: 50% blue and 50% splash. This mix is perfect for breeders looking to explore new color varieties, ensuring that every hatch remains exciting and diverse.

Black x Black

When you breed two black chickens, you will reliably get 100% black chicks. This certainty is vital if your goal is to build a solid base of black birds without introducing other colors.

Splash x Splash

Breeding splash chickens together guarantees 100% splash offspring. This method gives you a consistent outcome and helps establish a reliable line of splash-colored birds.

Splash chickens have a unique appearance, making them stand out in any flock.

Splash x Black

When you cross a splash with a black chicken, you produce 100% blue chicks. This straightforward pairing is one of the easiest and most effective ways to yield blue offspring. It's a fantastic option for breeders focused on enhancing the blue coloration.

Embracing Blue Poultry Genetics

When it comes to breeding blue poultry, knowledge is your ally. Recognizing that blue is a recessive trait allows you to set realistic expectations and increases your chances of successful hatching.

Happy Hatching!