The Ameraucana chicken is an American domestic chicken breed which was developed in the United States in the 1970s. This breed was developed by a few people who were trying to standardize the Araucana breed.
The Ameraucana was bred from chickens from a South American country (Chile) that carried the blue egg gene. And was bred to maintain the blue colored eggs of that breed while eliminating the lethal recessive gene.
A breeder’s club was formed in 1976 which is now called the Ameraucana Breeders Club. There is also a bantam variety of Ameraucana chicken.
Ameraucana Chicken Characteristics
Ameraucana chicken lay blue colored eggs. And it is one of the chicken breeds which lay blue colored eggs. The Ameraucana chickens have may similarities to the Araucana chickens. The main similarities are the pea comb and the blue egg gene.
The Araucana is rumpless and has earmuffs. And the Ameraucana chicken has a tail and is bearded and muffed. The wattles of this chicken breed is small or absent, the earlobes are small and round. The color of comb, earlobes and wattles are all red.
The shanks are slate-blue, tending to black in the Black variety. Ameraucana chicken breed is viewed as a variety of Araucana in UK and Australia. On an average, a standard Ameraucana male weights about 3kg and a female weights about 2.5kg. And the male and female of bantam variety weight between 740g-850g.
Ameraucana hens lay blue eggs in various shades. The recognized colors of Ameraucana chicken are Black, Blue, Blue Wheaten, Brown Red, Buff, Silver, Wheaten and White.
Behavior/Temperament
Ameraucana chickens are friendly and can be fun. Their personalities can vary widely from bird to bird. Probably because they are mixed-breed.
Breed Name | Ameraucana |
Other Name | None |
Breed Purpose | Dual Purpose |
Breed Temperament | Aggressive, Bears confinement well, Calm, Friendly, Fighty, Curious, Gentle |
Breed Size | Heavy (5.5-6.5 lbs) |
Broodiness | Average (not very broody) |
Comb | Pea |
Climate Tolerance | All Climates (cold hardy) |
Egg Color | Blue in various shades |
Egg Size | Medium |
Egg Productivity | About 3 eggs per week |
Feathered Legs | No |
Rarity | Common (ture Ameraucanas are rare) |
Varieties | Black, Blue, Blue Wheaten, Brown Red, Buff, Silver, Wheaten and White |
The Good
- Cold hardy
- Curious
- Gentle
- Nice voice
- Varied personalities
- Pretty good layers
- Lay blue colored eggs in various shades
- Good for both confined and free range system
- Good forager
The Bad
- Jumpy
- Some dislikes being held
- Very shy
Is Ameraucana Good for You?
The Ameraucana chicken is good for you if you…….
- Want to have friendly chickens.
- Want to raise some chickens which are good foragers.
- Love to produce blue colored eggs in various shades.
- Want to raise gentle, curious chickens with various personalities.
Ameraucana Chicken Facts
Ameraucana chickens are a popular breed of chicken known for their striking blue-green eggs and friendly temperament. Here are 20 interesting facts about these unique birds:
- Ameraucana chickens were first bred in the United States in the 1970s, and are still a relatively new breed compared to other chicken breeds.
- While both Ameraucanas and Easter Eggers lay blue or green eggs, there are some key differences between the two breeds. Ameraucanas are a pure breed, while Easter Eggers are a mixed breed that can have a variety of different traits.
- Ameraucanas come in several colors, including black, blue, blue wheaten, brown red, buff, silver, and white.
- Ameraucanas are medium-sized chickens, weighing between 4 and 6 pounds on average.
- Ameraucanas are known for their friendly and docile temperament, making them a popular choice for backyard flocks.
- Ameraucanas are well-suited to colder climates, and can tolerate cold temperatures better than some other chicken breeds.
- Ameraucanas are known for their excellent egg-laying abilities, and can lay up to 250 blue-green eggs per year.
- Ameraucanas are known to be broody, meaning they may become very protective of their eggs and chicks, and may stop laying eggs temporarily.
- Ameraucanas are active and curious birds that enjoy exploring and foraging.
- Ameraucanas are relatively quiet birds, making them a good choice for backyard flocks in urban or suburban areas.
- Ameraucanas are well-suited to free-ranging, and enjoy access to a wide range of environments and food sources.
- Ameraucanas have excellent predator avoidance instincts, and are able to quickly detect and escape from potential threats.
- Ameraucanas are generally healthy and hardy birds, and are not prone to many of the health issues that other chicken breeds may experience.
- Ameraucanas are considered a dual-purpose breed, meaning they are suitable for both egg-laying and meat production.
- One distinctive characteristic of Ameraucanas is their muff and beard, which is a tuft of feathers that grows around their face and chin.
- Ameraucanas are non-aggressive birds, and are known for their peaceful demeanor and ability to get along with other chickens.
- Ameraucanas Require Proper NutritionLike all chickens, Ameraucanas require a balanced diet that includes a mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats to maintain good health and egg production.
- Ameraucanas are active egg layers, and may lay eggs in a variety of locations, including nesting boxes, hidden spots in the coop, or even outside in the yard.
- Ameraucanas are a popular choice for backyard flocks, as they are easy to care for and have a friendly temperament.
- Ameraucanas are recognized by the American Poultry Association as a standard breed, and have specific standards for their appearance and characteristics.
- While Ameraucanas are good egg layers, they are not ideal for commercial production due to their small size and slower rate of egg production compared to other breeds.
- Ameraucanas are a popular choice for chicken show competitions, as their unique blue-green eggs and distinctive appearance make them stand out in a crowd.
- Ameraucanas have a rich history that dates back to ancient South American cultures, where they were first bred for their blue-green eggs and meat.
Tips for Raising Ameraucana Chicken
Raising Ameraucana chickens can be a rewarding experience for both novice and experienced poultry keepers. Like all chickens, Ameraucanas require proper care and attention to thrive. Here are some tips to help you raise healthy, happy Ameraucana chickens.
Choose Healthy Chicks
When selecting Ameraucana chicks, choose birds that are active, alert, and free from signs of illness or deformity. Avoid birds that are sluggish, weak, or have abnormal feathering or leg structure.
Provide Adequate Space
Ameraucanas are active birds that require plenty of space to move around and exercise. Provide at least 4 square feet of indoor space per bird, and at least 10 square feet of outdoor space in a run or pasture.
Maintain Clean Coop
A clean coop is essential for the health and well-being of your Ameraucanas. Regularly clean the coop and remove any wet bedding or droppings, and provide fresh bedding material to keep the coop dry and odor-free.
Use Quality Feed
Ameraucanas require a balanced diet to maintain their health and productivity. Choose a high-quality commercial feed that is appropriate for their age and stage of development, and supplement with fresh fruits and vegetables, and high-quality protein sources such as mealworms or black soldier fly larvae.
Provide Clean Water
Clean water is essential for the health of your Ameraucanas. Provide fresh, clean water in a sturdy container that cannot be tipped over, and clean and refill the water container daily.
Provide Grit
Ameraucanas require grit to help them digest their food properly. Provide a separate container of grit in the coop, and allow the birds to take as much as they need.
Provide Nesting Boxes
Ameraucanas are known for their colorful eggs, and will require nesting boxes to lay their eggs in. Provide at least one nesting box per 3-4 birds, and line the boxes with clean nesting material such as straw or shavings.
Provide Perches
Ameraucanas enjoy perching, and will benefit from the addition of sturdy perches in the coop. Provide perches at different heights and angles to allow the birds to exercise their feet and legs, and to prevent boredom.
Provide Dust Baths
Ameraucanas require dust baths to keep their feathers clean and healthy. Provide a container of dust or sand in the coop, and allow the birds to take dust baths as needed.
Monitor Egg Production
Regularly monitor the egg production of your Ameraucanas to ensure that they are laying consistently and in good health. A sudden drop in egg production can be a sign of illness or stress, and should be investigated.
Provide Enrichment
Provide your Ameraucanas with opportunities for enrichment, such as perches, toys, or foraging activities. This can help to prevent boredom and aggression, and promote healthy behavior.
Keep Records
Keep detailed records of your Ameraucana flock, including breeding, egg production, and health history. This can help you to make informed decisions about breeding, culling, and future flock management.
Keep Them Safe from Predators
Ameraucanas are at risk from a variety of predators, including raccoons, foxes, and hawks. Keep your birds safe by providing a secure coop and run, and by locking them up at night.
Introduce New Birds Carefully
If you plan to introduce new Ameraucanas to your flock, do so gradually and carefully. Quarantine new birds for at least two weeks before introducing them to the rest of the flock, and closely monitor their behavior to ensure that they are accepted and integrated properly.
Practice Biosecurity
Practice good biosecurity to prevent the spread of diseases and parasites in your flock. This includes keeping the coop and surrounding area clean and free from debris, limiting contact with other birds, and keeping feed and water sources clean and free from contamination.
Provide Shade and Ventilation
Ameraucanas are adapted to a wide range of climates, but require access to shade and proper ventilation to regulate their body temperature. Provide shade and ventilation in the coop and run to prevent overheating, and protect the birds from extreme weather conditions.
Keep Them Active
Ameraucanas are active and curious birds that require stimulation and exercise to stay healthy and happy. Provide plenty of opportunities for exercise and exploration, such as access to a pasture or yard, or by providing toys or other forms of enrichment.
Trim Their Wings
Ameraucanas are capable of flight, and may attempt to escape their enclosure if given the opportunity. Trim their wings to prevent escape attempts, and to keep them safe from predators.
Treat Parasites Promptly
Ameraucanas are susceptible to a variety of parasites, including mites, lice, and worms. Monitor your birds regularly for signs of infestation, and treat promptly with appropriate medications or natural remedies.
Practice Good Hygiene
Practice good hygiene when handling your Ameraucanas to prevent the spread of disease. Wash your hands before and after handling birds, and wear gloves and other protective gear if necessary.
Provide Proper Lighting
Ameraucanas require proper lighting to maintain their circadian rhythm and to stimulate egg production. Provide 14-16 hours of light per day in the coop, and use a timer to ensure consistent lighting.
Practice Egg Collection Hygiene
Practice good hygiene when collecting and handling Ameraucana eggs. Collect eggs frequently, and discard any that are cracked or soiled. Store eggs in a cool, dry place, and use them within a reasonable time frame.
Consider Health Issues in Breeding
If you plan to breed Ameraucanas, be aware of potential health issues and genetic disorders that may be passed on to offspring. Consult with a veterinarian or experienced breeder to ensure that you are breeding healthy, high-quality birds.
Enjoy Your Flock!
Finally, enjoy your Ameraucana flock and the unique characteristics and personalities that each bird brings. With proper care and attention, these birds can provide years of enjoyment and companionship.