Black Ameraucana Chicken

The Ameraucana is a beautiful and increasingly popular breed known for laying blue eggs. Though originally from the USA, they have become a sought-after breed due to their unique egg color and friendly nature.

First recognized by the American Poultry Association (APA) in 1984, Ameraucanas are a versatile breed with a striking appearance. They have a medium-length, well-spread tail, distinctive muffs, and a small pea comb. Their lineage traces back to the Araucana, a South American breed, but without the tufted and rumpless traits.

Ameraucanas are hardy and known for their long laying seasons, often producing eggs late into November and starting again in January. The hens may go broody, and their inquisitive, active, and friendly disposition makes them a favorite among poultry enthusiasts. The APA recognizes several colors, including Black, White, Wheaten, Silver, Buff, Brown Red, Blue Wheaten, and Blue.

Appearance

Feather Color:
Black Ameraucana chickens have rich, glossy black plumage with a greenish sheen in sunlight. Their uniform color and tight feathering give them a sleek, elegant look. They have a well-groomed appearance and are often admired in show rings for their striking presence.

Body Type:
Moderately compact, upright body with a medium build. They have a full breast, well-rounded frame, and a distinctly upright stance. They are not heavy meat birds, but they have good body balance and proportion.

Head and Comb:
Characteristic pea comb, small and close to the head—ideal for cold climates due to low risk of frostbite. The head is broad with a full muff and beard that give it a puffy, owl-like look. Eyes are reddish bay, and the beak is dark horn-colored.

Legs and Feet:
Slate blue to black legs with no feathering. Four toes per foot. Strong legs that support active foraging and movement.

Size:
Standard Black Ameraucana hens weigh 5.5–6.5 pounds; roosters about 6.5–7.5 pounds. Bantam versions are also available.

Temperament

Friendly but Independent:
Black Ameraucanas are generally calm and docile but not overly cuddly. They can be shy at first but warm up with regular handling. Suitable for families and hobby keepers.

Active and Curious:
Enjoy foraging and exploring. They're intelligent and thrive in environments where they can roam, scratch, and stay mentally stimulated.

Good for Mixed Flocks:
Tend to be non-aggressive and get along well with other chicken breeds. Rarely cause trouble but won’t be bullied either.

Egg Production

Moderate but Unique Layers:
Lay about 180–220 eggs per year. Their main appeal lies in the blue eggs, which are medium-sized and vary from pale blue to sky blue. The color stays consistent throughout their laying years.

Laying Season:
Begin laying around 5–6 months of age. Steady layers through spring, summer, and fall. May slow down or pause during winter without supplemental light.

Broodiness:
Not particularly broody. When they do go broody, they can be decent mothers, but they are not known for strong maternal instincts.

Health and Care

Cold Hardy:
Excellent for cold climates due to small comb and full facial feathers. Can withstand snow and frost better than many larger-combed breeds.

Disease Resistant:
Hardy and generally healthy when given proper nutrition and clean conditions. Watch for mites or feather buildup around the face, especially due to their muffs and beard.

Feeding Needs:
Standard layer feed with extra protein during molt. Calcium supplements for shell health. Benefit from foraging to supplement diet.

Housing

Space Requirements:
Adaptable to confinement but do best with room to roam. At least 4 square feet per bird in the coop and 8–10 square feet in the run.

Nesting Boxes and Roosts:
Standard-size nesting boxes are sufficient. Roosts should be low to medium in height, as they are active but not flighty.

Secure Fencing:
While not known to be escape artists, they are alert and curious—fencing should be secure to prevent predation.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What color eggs do black Ameraucana chickens lay?
Black Ameraucana chickens are specifically bred to lay some of the bluest eggs among chicken breeds. Unlike Easter Eggers, which can produce a variety of egg colors, true Black Ameraucanas are expected to lay blue eggs. However, on occasion, some hens may lay eggs with a slight greenish tint.

Are Ameraucanas good egg layers?
Ameraucana chickens are medium-sized birds, typically weighing between 6 to 7 pounds, and are valued primarily for their egg-laying capabilities. They are known to lay about three blue eggs per week. While their egg production is steady, they aren’t particularly prone to broodiness. The American Poultry Association (APA) recognizes several color varieties, including blue, black, blue wheaten, brown red, silver, wheaten, and white.

How big are Ameraucana eggs?
Ameraucana eggs are generally medium in size, closely resembling the size and shape of standard chicken eggs.

How long do Ameraucanas lay eggs?
A typical Ameraucana hen can lay approximately 3 to 4 blue eggs per week, maintaining this rate for around four years. Like other breeds, their egg production slows down during the coldest months and when they are molting.

Are Ameraucana friendly?
Ameraucana chickens are known for their friendly and calm personalities. They are generally gentle and make excellent additions to family flocks or backyard setups. They also tend to get along well with other chickens, contributing to a peaceful flock environment.

Black Ameraucana Facts

Poultry Show Class: All Other Standard Breeds, Miscellaneous Class
Weights – Hen ——-5 1/2 lbs
Rooster—-6 1/2 lb
Pullet——4 1/2 lbs
Cockerel—5 1/2 lbs
Purpose and Type: Laying Blue Eggs and Exhibition Type/Show Type
Egg Shell Color – Blue Shell a few light green
Egg Production – 180-200 eggs per year (estimates only)
Egg Size: Medium-Large
Temperament: Active/Flighty
Gender Accuracy: 75-80%
Fertility Percentage: 65-80%
Broody: Non Setter
Mating Ratio: 9 Females to 1 Male
Roost Height: 4+ feet
Country of Origin -United States
APA: Yes, Recognized by the American Standard of Perfection in 1984.
TLC: Not Listed
Breeder Farm Source: Poultry Breeding Farm Developing our bloodline or strain of production type Black Ameraucanas since 2015.

Ameraucana

Black Ameraucana

Blue Ameraucana

Splash Ameraucana