Ameraucana hens are a unique and interesting breed of chicken that have become increasingly popular in recent years. These birds are known for their distinctive appearance, hardy nature, and high-quality eggs. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at Ameraucana hens, including their history, characteristics, and care requirements.
You may also want to read about the best chicken feed.
History of Ameraucana Hens
Ameraucana hens are a relatively new breed, having only been recognized by the American Poultry Association (APA) in 1984. However, the history of this breed goes back much further than that. Ameraucanas are descended from South American breeds of chicken that were brought to the United States in the early 20th century. These birds were initially bred for their unique blue eggs, which were highly prized by poultry enthusiasts.
In the 1970s, a group of breeders in the United States began selectively breeding these South American chickens to create a new breed with specific characteristics, such as a pea comb, muff and beard, and blue or green eggs. The result was the Ameraucana, a breed that quickly gained popularity among backyard chicken keepers and show enthusiasts.
Characteristics of Ameraucana Hens
Ameraucana hens are a medium-sized breed, with females weighing between 4 and 5 pounds and males weighing between 5 and 6 pounds. These birds have a distinctive appearance, with a pea comb, muff and beard, and slate or black legs. They come in a variety of colors, including black, blue, wheaten, and brown-red.
One of the most unique characteristics of Ameraucana hens is their blue or green eggs. These eggs are the result of a genetic mutation that causes the hens to lay eggs with a blue or green tint. This makes Ameraucanas a popular choice for backyard chicken keepers who want to add some variety to their egg basket.
Ameraucanas are also known for their hardy nature and ability to withstand cold temperatures. They have a thick layer of feathers that helps to keep them warm in the winter, and they are generally more disease-resistant than other breeds of chicken.
Caring for Ameraucana Hens
If you’re thinking about adding Ameraucana hens to your flock, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Here are some tips for caring for these birds:
- Housing: Ameraucana hens need a secure coop that protects them from predators and provides them with shelter from the elements. The coop should be well-ventilated but also draft-free, and it should have roosts and nesting boxes where the hens can lay their eggs.
- Feeding: Ameraucana hens need a balanced diet that includes a mixture of grains, protein, and fresh fruits and vegetables. You can feed them commercial chicken feed or create your own mixture using ingredients like corn, wheat, soybean meal, and oats.
- Water: It’s important to provide your Ameraucana hens with clean, fresh water at all times. Make sure to change their water daily and keep their waterer clean to prevent the spread of disease.
- Health: Like all chickens, Ameraucanas are susceptible to certain diseases and parasites. Make sure to keep their coop and surroundings clean and practice good biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of illness. You should also be on the lookout for signs of illness, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, and abnormal droppings.
- Egg collection: If you’re keeping Ameraucana hens for their eggs, you’ll need to collect their eggs regularly to prevent them from getting dirty or damaged. You should also store their eggs in a cool, dry place to keep them fresh.
Conclusion
Ameraucana hens are a unique and desirable breed of chicken that are known for their distinct appearance and friendly nature. They are a great choice for families with children or those who are new to raising chickens due to their ease of care and docile nature. With proper care and maintenance, Ameraucana hens can provide years of enjoyment and a steady supply of blue or green colored eggs.
