Ameraucana Chicken Breed Guide: Eggs, Temperament, Care, and Differences Explained

Ameraucana chickens are among the most sought-after backyard breeds in the United States, mainly because of their ability to lay blue eggs. But many poultry keepers still confuse them with Araucana chickens and Easter Eggers.

So what exactly makes the Ameraucana unique? Are they true blue egg layers? And how can you identify a genuine Ameraucana?

This complete guide covers everything you need to know about the Ameraucana chicken breed, including origin, appearance, egg production, temperament, care tips, and key differences from similar breeds.

Origin of Ameraucana Chickens

The name Ameraucana combines “America” and “Araucana.” Although its foundation stock came from Chilean blue egg-laying chickens, the breed itself was developed in the United States.

The story began in 1927 when Ward Brower Jr. became interested in chickens that laid blue eggs after seeing them featured in National Geographic. These birds were originally raised by the Mapuche people of Chile.

After importing these chickens, Brower began crossbreeding them with several other breeds, including:

• Ancona
• Barred Plymouth Rock
• Brahma
• Cornish
• Rhode Island Red
• Leghorn varieties

These crosses produced birds that laid eggs in various colors, leading to what we now call Easter Eggers.

By 1976, the American Poultry Association (APA) officially recognized Ameraucana and Araucana as two separate breeds.

Ameraucana vs Araucana vs Easter Eggers

Many beginners struggle to distinguish between these three types of chickens. Mislabeling is also common in hatcheries, so understanding the differences is critical.

Key Differences

• Ameraucana: Has beard and muffs, lays blue eggs, recognized breed
• Araucana: Rumpless with ear tufts, rare, genetic challenges
• Easter Eggers: Mixed breed, lays various egg colors

Common Myths

• Araucanas are the only true blue egg layers
• All Easter Eggers come from Ameraucanas
• All Ameraucanas lay blue eggs consistently

Facts You Should Know

• True Ameraucanas come only from reputable breeders
• Araucanas are rare due to genetic issues
• Not all Easter Eggers lay blue eggs
• Ameraucana and Araucana were developed separately

Ameraucana Chicken Appearance

The Ameraucana chicken has several distinctive physical traits that make it easy to identify:

• Beard and muffs (facial feathers)
• Pea comb (small and triple-ridged)
• Medium-sized body with upright posture
• Slate-blue legs
• Reddish-brown eyes
• White skin

They also come in multiple recognized color varieties such as black, blue, wheaten, buff, and white.

Ameraucana Chicken Size and Weight

• Roosters: ~6.5 lbs
• Hens: ~5.5 lbs
• Bantams: 1.5–1.875 lbs

This makes them a medium-sized dual-purpose chicken.

Ameraucana Chicken Temperament

Ameraucanas are generally known for being:

• Docile but independent
• Curious and active
• Good foragers
• Moderately friendly

Some strains may be flighty, so they benefit from secure fencing. They usually rank in the middle of the pecking order and can coexist with other breeds.

Climate Tolerance

Ameraucana chickens are both cold hardy and reasonably heat tolerant.

• Small comb reduces frostbite risk
• Handles winter better than extreme heat

What Do Ameraucana Chickens Eat?

Feeding Ameraucana chickens is straightforward:

• Starter feed (chicks)
• Grower feed (juveniles)
• Layer feed (laying hens)

Supplement their diet with vegetables, grains, and constant access to clean water.

Ameraucana Egg Production

One of the biggest reasons to raise Ameraucanas is their egg color.

• Egg color: Blue to blue-green
• Annual production: 100–250 eggs
• Start laying: 5–10 months

However, egg color intensity may fade over time, and not all birds consistently lay deep blue eggs.

Meat Production

Although primarily raised for eggs, Ameraucanas are considered dual-purpose chickens. Their meat is flavorful but not as abundant as larger meat breeds.

Common Health Concerns

Some Ameraucana strains are prone to cross beak, a genetic deformity that affects feeding.

• No known cure
• Requires extra care
• May appear at hatch or later

They may also develop parasites if raised in poor conditions, similar to other chicken breeds.

Care and Management Tips

• Provide adequate space (they are active birds)
• Use higher fencing to prevent escape
• Avoid mixing with aggressive breeds
• Maintain clean coop conditions

Pros and Cons of Ameraucana Chickens

Advantages

• Unique blue egg production
• Cold hardy
• Active and intelligent
• Good foragers
• Suitable for beginners

Disadvantages

• True Ameraucanas are hard to find
• Some strains are flighty
• Genetic issues like cross beak
• Inconsistent broodiness

Conclusion

The Ameraucana chicken is an excellent choice for backyard poultry keepers who want colorful eggs and an active flock. However, identifying a true Ameraucana is essential to avoid confusion with Easter Eggers.

With proper care, these birds can be productive, resilient, and a unique addition to your flock.