Brief introduction:
First off, Black Sex Links are not considered a breed. Why? Since Black Sex Links are a hybrid of two different heritage breeds (most commonly a Rhode Island Red roo crossed with a Barred Rock hen), they are considered a crossbreed.
Breeding:
To get a Black Sex Link, you would breed a red variety rooster such as New Hampshire Red or Rhode Island Red to a Barred Plymouth Rock hen. This results in chicks whose sex is distinguishable at birth. Males from this cross will feather out with the pattern of the Barred Rock with random red feathers while the females feather out to a deep black with a green sheen, especially towards the tail feathers accompanied with golden laced hackle feathers. Upon hatching, sex is determinable. Pullets are all black while cockerels are black with a white spot on the top of their head.
While being large birds perfect for meat production and being prolific layers of large brown eggs, their genetics do not pass true. Unfortunately, since the Black Sex Link is not a breed, the genes are not heavily imprinted enough to guarantee offspring of equal value. Any offspring produced by sex links are doubtful to produce as many eggs, and therefor do not make the best type of chicken to breed if you're looking to produce more egg layers.
Pros:
Excellent egg producer of large medium toned brown eggs
Perfect dual purpose bird- meat birds, egg layers, and pets.
Hardy bird, tolerant to both hot and cold weather.
Doesn't go broody often (which is great since you may not want to breed this bird)
Perfect to hatch/buy if you're looking for a 100% accurately sexed chick.
Cons:
Very vocal.
Bossy, doesn't take to new flock members easily.
Overconfident, can lead to easy targeting of predators.
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