You're right - Wellies can lay some nice dark eggs, so they are definitely a good choice for those wanting gorgeous, dark eggs. I have/had both breeds (Wellies and Marans) and I have to say that I like the temperament/personality of the Marans better. I got both breeds from breeders with well-respected lines, so they were nice quality birds, though I didn't pay a fortune for them at all. Of course, it's possible that others have had different experiences.