The Croad Langshan is an old, heavy, soft-feathered chicken breed which probably originated in China.
The first recorded imports came from the Langshan ('Wolf Mountain') area in the outskirts of Nantong, just north of the lower reaches of the Yangtze River in China) in 1872 and were undertaken by Major F.T.
The original Croad Langshans were black with a brilliant green sheen and that is still the main colour kept today.
The head is small compared to the body size, the beak is light to dark horn in colour; the comb is medium-sized, single and carried upright in both sexes.
In the early 20th century Croad Langshans became a popular utility breed, doing well in laying trials.
Croad Langshans are easily tamed and adapt well to both confinement and free range.