The Black Breasted Red Aseel chicken is a remarkable gamefowl breed with origins deeply rooted in the Indian subcontinent, making it one of the world’s oldest and most respected gamefowl lines. Known as “Aseel” or “Asil,” meaning “purebred” in both Arabic and Hindi, this breed embodies resilience, strength, and a rich cultural heritage. The Black Breasted Red Aseel has been refined over centuries, valued for its remarkable stamina, compact muscular build, and unique temperament, all of which make it a standout among poultry enthusiasts and breeders alike.

Distinctive Physical Characteristics of Black Breasted Red Aseel

Despite their sleek, compact appearance, Black Breasted Red Aseels are heavier than they look, thanks to their tight-fitting feathers and dense musculature. Their striking coloration features a dark red body with a signature black breast, giving them a distinctive and powerful appearance. The breed is characterized by a strong, upright posture, broad shoulders, and a powerful beak. Aseels have small pea combs and minimal wattles, adding to their “no-nonsense” look. Recognized by the American Poultry Association’s Standard of Perfection in 1981, these birds embody the ideal traits of the Oriental breed class.

Temperament and Care Requirements

Black Breasted Red Aseels are known for their assertive and territorial nature, particularly in males. This breed requires a spacious, open environment where they can thrive and express their natural behaviors. Due to their territorial instincts, male Aseels should be separated by the age of three months to prevent aggressive interactions with other males. Although they are spirited with other birds, Aseels form strong bonds with their human handlers, displaying intelligence and a surprising level of friendliness.

Breeding, Egg Production, and Broodiness

While Black Breasted Red Aseels are not prolific layers, hens produce a small number of cream-colored eggs seasonally, often laying 40 or fewer eggs per year. However, Aseel hens are exceptional mothers, known for their strong brooding instincts and protective nature, defending their chicks with vigor. Their diet is carefully balanced with protein and calcium to support their health, which also contributes to their offspring’s resistance to common poultry diseases.

Heritage and Legacy of the Black Breasted Red Aseel

Dating back thousands of years, the Aseel breed is one of the most ancient gamefowl breeds, historically bred for competitive endurance and strength. Originally developed for cockfighting—an ancient practice that still exists in some regions—this breed is legendary for its stamina and fighting spirit. Though cockfighting is prohibited or regulated in many areas today, the Aseel remains highly regarded by breeders for its lineage and unique characteristics. Valley Hatchery continues the tradition of breeding Reza-type Asil chickens, blending diverse strains like Sonatol, Rampur, and Atkinson to produce authentic, high-quality Aseel chicks.

Conservation and Rarity

With a critical conservation status, the Black Breasted Red Aseel is considered a rare breed, often prized by heritage breeders and poultry enthusiasts who value its historical significance.

Product Highlights:

Weight: Rooster: 5.5 lbs, Hen: 4 lbs
Egg Production: Low, approximately 40 small cream-tinted eggs per year
Temperament: Assertive with other birds but personable with handlers
Care Requirements: Requires spacious environment and early separation of males
Heritage Status: Recognized by the APA; critical conservation breed

The Black Breasted Red Aseel is more than a poultry breed; it’s a living symbol of strength, history, and enduring tradition. Ideal for heritage breeders, conservationists, and enthusiasts, this bird offers a unique opportunity to appreciate and preserve a purebred gamefowl that has stood the test of time.