At Tournesol Farms, we raise a carefully selected group of heritage and rare breeds — chosen for their temperament, production quality, hardiness, and fit within our regenerative, humane farming model. Every bird has a role in the ecosystem, and every breed was chosen with intention.
Ayam Cemani
One of the rarest breeds in the world, the Ayam Cemani is entirely black — feathers, skin, beak, comb, and internal organs — due to a genetic condition called fibromelanosis. Originating in Indonesia, these birds are striking, calm, and deeply connected to cultural tradition. Our Ayam Cemani are raised with the highest level of care. Their eggs are a creamy light brown and command a significant premium. Breeding stock is available seasonally on a very limited basis.
Egg color: Creamy light brown | Temperament: Calm, alert | Purpose: Rare breeding stock, eggs | Availability: Very limited
Heritage Chickens
Our heritage chicken flock includes breeds selected for foraging ability, strong laying performance, and calm disposition — ideal for a pasture-based, multi-species farm. Heritage breeds are slower-growing and longer-lived than commercial hybrids, producing eggs with richer yolks and deeper flavor thanks to their varied, natural diet.
Egg color: Brown | Temperament: Friendly, active | Purpose: Eggs, pasture management | Availability: Seasonal
Muscovy Ducks
Muscovy ducks are quiet, hardy, and excellent foragers. They are a separate species from mallard-derived breeds, known for being low-maintenance and disease-resistant. Their eggs are large and rich — popular with bakers and chefs for their higher fat content. Muscovies also provide natural pest control, consuming insects, slugs, and flies across the farm.
Egg color: White, large | Temperament: Quiet, independent | Purpose: Eggs, pest control | Availability: Seasonal
Geese
Geese are the guardians of the farm. We raise three breeds — Embden, American Buff, and Buff–Embden cross — selected for temperament, egg production, and hardiness in the Maine climate. Known for their intelligence, long memory, and protective instincts, they alert the flock to predators and help maintain order. Goose eggs are prized for their size — roughly equivalent to three chicken eggs — and their rich, complex flavor. Available seasonally in very limited quantities. Geese also contribute to pasture management by grazing on grass and weeds.
Egg color: Large white | Temperament: Protective, intelligent | Purpose: Eggs, flock protection, pasture management | Availability: Seasonal/limited
Our Approach to Breeding
All breeding decisions at Tournesol Farms prioritize animal welfare, genetic diversity, and fit with our organic, regenerative model. We do not breed for maximum output — we breed for resilience, health, and longevity. Live sales are conducted with buyer readiness as a non-negotiable requirement: we provide care guidance to every buyer and reserve the right to decline a sale if we have concerns about the receiving environment.