Why have my black copper Marans changed color?

[Moogie]

They were a beautiful iridescent dark black with green sheen when I bought them.

They've been laying for several months now and have changed to a mottled, dark chocolate color.

They're very healthy, but have just changed color.

 

[spiritdance]

Could be sun fade if they've been outside a lot in the summer sun.

 

[Illia]

Yep, sun bleaching. You should see my Blue Wheaten Marans. Most beautiful Marans out there IMO, then summer happened. . . .

He's the ugliest Marans out there now.

 

[Moogie]

Wow - i had no idea! Will they change back in the winter or is this their permanent Texas color now?

 

[AccentOnHakes]

It should be back when they finish molting and grow new feathers.

 

[Moogie]

Thank you!