Ameraucana Chicken Breed : The Ultimate Guide
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Ameraucana chickens, with their striking appearance and charming personalities, have gained popularity among poultry enthusiasts worldwide. They should not be confused with Easter Eggers, which can lay blue and green eggs, and do not conform to any breed standard. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the history, personality, appearance, and egg production of the Ameraucana chicken breed.
History of the Ameraucana chicken breed
The Ameraucana chicken breed has a fascinating history that traces back to the early 1970s. It originated from the Araucana chickens of Chile, which are known for their distinctive tufts of feathers on their cheeks and blue egg-laying capabilities.
A group of dedicated breeders in the United States sought to refine and standardize this breed, aiming to eliminate genetic flaws while preserving its unique characteristics. Through careful breeding practices, they established the Ameraucana chicken breed, which was officially recognized by the American Poultry Association (APA) in 1984.
My Pet Chicken offer these Ameraucana chickens for sale. Â
The personality of an Ameraucana chicken
Ameraucana chickens are renowned for their friendly and docile nature, making them excellent additions to backyard flocks and family farms. They are known to be curious and sociable, often displaying a fondness for human interaction.
Ameraucanas are typically not aggressive and get along well with other chickens. They generally integrate smoothly into a mixed flock, forming strong bonds with their flock mates. They are not typically at the top of the pecking order, but they can hold their own and establish their place within the hierarchy.
Overall, Ameraucanas make wonderful additions to a backyard flock due to their friendly and easygoing nature. Their engaging personalities and calm demeanor make them delightful companions, whether you're a seasoned chicken keeper or new to raising poultry.
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The appearance of Ameraucana chickens
One of the most striking features of Ameraucanas is their distinctive feather patterns and colors. They come in a variety of hues, including black, blue, splash, lavender, and wheaten, with each color variety exhibiting its unique beauty.
Additionally, Ameraucanas possess the iconic tufts of feathers on their cheeks, known as muffs and beards, which add to their charm and appeal. These tufts contribute to their distinctive appearance and set them apart from other chicken breeds.
On average, a mature Ameraucana hen can weigh between 6 to 7 pounds. Roosters tend to be slightly heavier, ranging from 7 to 8 pounds. These weights are approximate and can vary depending on factors such as diet, overall health, and individual genetics.
Egg color and production of Ameraucana chickens
One of the most prized qualities of Ameraucana chickens is their ability to lay eggs in a range of beautiful blue and green pastel colors. Unlike the traditional white or brown eggs commonly found in supermarkets, Ameraucana eggs can vary from shades of blue to green. Each hen will give one color egg. The egg color will not change from one egg being laid to the other. For example, if your hen has just laid a blue egg, it will lay a blue egg its entire life.Â
While Ameraucanas may not lay eggs as prolifically as some production breeds, they are reliable layers, producing approximately 3-4 eggs per week or 150 to 200 eggs per year. They typically start laying eggs at around 6-7 months of age and continue to lay consistently.
In terms of size, Ameraucana eggs are generally medium in size. They typically have a similar shape and appearance to regular chicken eggs.Â
Care and health for Ameraucana chickens
Ameraucana chickens are hardy and adaptable to a wide range of climates including both hot and cold weather. With proper care and attention, they can live healthy and productive lives, laying colorful and abundant eggs for years to come. The average life span of this chicken breed is 5-8 years.
Do you have any Ameraucana chickens in your flock? Share with us in the comments below.Â
3 comments
We purchased 7 female (or so we were told) chickens: 4 silkies and 3 americaunas: Rumba, Delilah, Fiona, Wynona, Stella, Corona and Gloria. Alas we now fear Gloria is a Gary! In any event, we are wondering if they will breed and we will end up with more chickens and possibly a few mixed breeds. Definitely more eggs I suppose!
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My Pet Chicken:
Your flock sounds delightful! If Gloria turns out to be Gary, you might have some fertilized eggs, but don’t worry—they won’t develop unless they’re incubated. You’ll still enjoy the same delicious eggs, with no change in quantity or taste, even with a rooster around. If you need help figuring things out or just want to chat about your lovely flock, we’re here for you!
We are just glad to figure out what breed she is! We got 3Orpingtons and 4Whyandottes this year and inherited her and her mom. She doesn’t look or act anything like the other chickens. Comes in house and watches movies with us every night. I told my wife she reminds me of the Secretary Bird of Africa. Look him up
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My Pet Chicken:
It sounds like you have quite the unique and entertaining chicken on your hands! It’s always fun when a chicken stands out from the rest with such a distinct personality. How amazing that she comes inside to watch movies with you—that’s something special! It’s great that you’ve figured out her breed, and I’m sure she brings a lot of joy to your flock (and your family)! Thanks for sharing her story!
I really love my Ameraucana chickens ,I have one Rooster and to hens been hatching eggs from them and they are coming out true to the parents .I have had them since late last summer an I really very am happy with them.