Midler Farms Exotics

Advancing New Age Livestock • Preserving Rare Breeds

We continue to grow and evolve while remaining deeply rooted in a century of agricultural tradition. Building on our strong cattle program, we recently expanded into some exotic livestock.
In 2023, we began raising the rare Svart Hona (Swedish Black Hen), and in 2025, we added Ostriches to the property.

The Svart Hona (Swedish Black Hen)

Also known as Svarthöna, this remarkable Swedish landrace is one of the world’s few fibromelanistic breeds. The deep black coloration extends beyond plumage into the skin, bones, and connective tissue, giving this bird its distinctive and prized appearance.

Breed Highlights

• Fibromelanistic “all-black” trait (skin, tissue, and feathers)
• Origin: Descended from African chickens brought to Scandinavia in the 17th century
• Cold-hardy, calm, and well-adapted to northern climates
• Excellent free-rangers with friendly temperaments
• Eggs: White to cream; typically 100–250 eggs per year
• Recognized landrace preserved in Swedish gene banks since 1991

Modern Svart Hona lines can be traced to a flock preserved by Swedish breeders in the early 20th century, later secured and maintained through national gene banks. We maintain a pure, all-black breeding line, selecting for color, vigor, and temperament.

Interested in Svart Hona hatching eggs?
We welcome inquiries.

Hatching Eggs & Purchasing Policy

Our hatching eggs are shipped fresh, clean, and securely packed via USPS Priority Mail.
Because of variables beyond our control — including postal handling and incubation methods — we cannot guarantee hatch rates, accept returns, or provide refunds. Eggs should rest large end up for at least 8 hours before incubation.

Minor variations such as white toes, silver earlobes, or slight comb leakage are not uncommon in melanistic breeds. Birds expressing these traits are not retained in our breeding program.

Ostrich Program

In 2025, we expanded our livestock operation into ostrich breeding, introducing one of agriculture’s most dynamic and high-potential species to our farm. Ostriches offer unique advantages for sustainable agriculture — from rapid growth to efficient feed conversion, high-value hides, and large, nutrient-rich eggs.

But for us, it’s not simply about raising ostriches — it’s about developing a genetic foundation that supports other producers across the region.

Our Long-Term Vision

We are building an ostrich operation modeled after the our cattle program:

• Genetic selection for structure, temperament, and productivity
• Pasture-based development in healthy, open environments
• Hands-on management to evaluate performance and adaptability
• Strong, consistent breeding lines for commercial and breeding purposes

While the program begins with a smaller nucleus group, the ultimate goal is to develop a self-sustaining, high-quality breeding flock capable of providing:

Our vision is to be positioned as a regional source for premium ostrich genetics, complementing our cattle program and reinforcing our mission of responsible, innovative, and future-focused agriculture.

Why-Ostriches