Go blue with the Ameraucana! Why? Because this is one of the few chickens that has the blue egg gene and lays blue eggs. Now that’s something to talk about. The breed is very good for egg laying, but it is not common in stores. Look for it at a reputable breeder. This amiable breed is average to smaller in size. It is known for having muffs and a beard on its face. It has a pea comb.
- ColorBlack, Blue, Blue Wheaten, Brown Red, Buff, Self Blue, Silver, Wheaten, White
- Skin ColorWhite
- LifespanAbout 8 years
- Weight5.5 to 6.5 pounds
Origin
The Ameraucana breed has roots in Chile but was developed in the United States. According to an article at the Ameraucana Alliance website, both the Ameraucana and the Araucana breeds were “bred up” from a mixed breed that became known as the Easter Egger. Other sources state that the Ameraucana or Araucana were bred with any other breed to create the Easter Egger. It seems like another “which came first” debate.
Care And Feeding
Housing for Ameraucanas is the same as all chickens need. A chicken coop or shed must provide safety, perches, nest boxes, room to move, be dry, and be ventilated but not drafty. It must contain accessories, such as water and food dispensers. Chickens also require an area for dust bathing, which could be in a run that is part of the coop, attached to the coop, or a fenced area adjacent to the coop.
Food is another basic necessity. Nutritious food is a must. Some chicken breeds also forage when given access to safe, fenced-in areas. Foraging is enjoyable and a fun activity for some breeds, but foraging can never take the place of nutritious chicken food. Supplements also help for different needs. We humbly suggest Booster Berries Enrich for egg laying support, Booster Berries Radiate for feather health, and Booster Berries Senior for older chickens.
Showing And Personality
The Ameraucana was accepted for showing by the American Poultry Association in 1984. It is available in both bantam and large fowl sizes.
All chickens are individuals. Temperament, noise level, egg production, size, and other characteristics can vary. Chickens typically live 7 to 9 years. The information below is for the large fowl Ameraucana, not the smaller bantam.
Ameraucana Chicken Overview
Purpose: Egg laying
Egg Production: Very Good (about 200 eggs per year)
Egg Size & Color: Large, blue
Skin Color: White
Size: Classified as Large Fowl by the American Poultry Association; 5.5 to 6.5 pounds
Temperament: Friendly and docile
Noise Level: Moderate
Climate Needs: Adaptable to hot or cold
Origin: AOSB
Recognized Varieties: Black, Blue, Blue Wheaten, Brown Red, Buff, Self Blue, Silver, Wheaten, White
