Araucana

Araucana key facts

Care level

Intermediate

Lifespan

About 8 years

Diet

Poultry feed, grain, greens and oyster-shell grit

Cage

Ordinary poultry housing suffices, but rumpless birds cannot shed rain with a tail, so provide a house sheltered from rain.

Temperament

Temperament is that of an ordinary chicken and birds are kept in a flock. The ear tufts are delicate, so avoid overcrowding that would damage them.

Vocalization

Vocalisation is that of an ordinary chicken, the cock crowing at dawn.

Notes

Both the ear tufts and rumplessness are caused by lethal genes, so pairing two birds with the same trait lowers hatchability; plan matings with that in mind.

About Araucana

Araucana chickens from Chile are known for their blue-tinted eggs. Some individuals have ear tufts or lack a tailbone, distinctive traits suited to intermediate-level keepers.

7 things to know before welcoming a Araucana

1. 1Distinctive Blue Eggs

   The Araucana's signature trait is laying eggs with a blue-tinted shell, a rare color among chicken breeds. This distinctive egg color adds a splash of variety to any egg basket.

2. 2Ear Tufts and Rumplessness

   Some individuals grow tufted feathers behind the ears, while others are born without a tailbone. Both traits come from a lethal gene, so you can't choose which features a particular bird will have.

3. 3Calm, People-Friendly Nature

   Araucanas tend to have a relatively calm temperament and can become comfortable around people with gentle handling. Individual personalities vary, so give a newly welcomed bird time to build trust rather than rushing the process.

4. 4Some Experience Helps

   This breed is generally recommended for keepers with some prior chicken-keeping experience. First-time owners may want to consult someone experienced while preparing.

5. 5Suitable Housing Setup

   Provide outdoor space for exercise along with a coop that protects against weather and predators. Good ventilation and protection from heat and cold help keep birds healthy.

6. 6Daily Care Routine

   Daily feeding, watering, and regular cleaning of the coop and ground help maintain a hygienic environment. Check feathers and legs routinely so you can catch any changes early.

7. 7Better Kept in Groups

   Chickens are naturally social and tend to settle better when kept in small flocks rather than alone. Plan your space and consider your neighbors before bringing birds home.

Frequently asked questions about Araucana

Q.What kind of eggs does the Araucana lay?

A.It's one of the few breeds that lay eggs with a blue-tinted shell. The exact shade can vary between individual birds.

Q.Can I choose whether my bird has ear tufts or no tail?

A.Both traits are determined by a lethal gene present from birth. You can't select for a specific look when getting a bird.

Q.Is this breed suitable for beginners?

A.The Araucana is generally considered suitable for intermediate keepers. Having some basic chicken-keeping experience helps you care for one with confidence.

Q.What is their temperament like?

A.Araucanas tend to be relatively calm and can become comfortable around people. Individual personalities vary, so it helps to take time building trust.

Q.Is it okay to keep just one bird?

A.Chickens are social by nature and tend to settle better in small groups than alone. Consider your available space before bringing birds home.

Useful tools for Araucana care

Learn more about Araucana in the encyclopedia

More in this category