To buy Araucana chickens near you, check local poultry farms, agricultural supply stores, or online marketplaces like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace.
Araucana chickens are prized for their unique blue eggs and distinctive appearance. Finding these rare birds can be challenging, but this guide will help you locate reputable sources and understand what makes this breed special.
Understanding Araucana Chickens
Araucanas originated from Chile and were named after the Arauco Indians. They have several distinctive features:
- Pea combs
- Blue egg shells
- No tailbone (rumpless)
- Ear tufts (though this trait comes with breeding challenges)
The breed comes in five standard color varieties: black, black breasted red, golden duckwing, silver duckwing, and white. Due to genetic challenges in breeding, true Araucanas are quite rare.
Breeding Challenges
Araucanas present unique breeding difficulties:
- The tufted trait is associated with a lethal gene that can cause chick deformities
- The rumpless feature reduces fertility as tails help during mating
- Generations of rumpless breeding can lead to shorter backs that hinder natural breeding
Where to Buy Araucana Chickens
1. Specialty Hatcheries
While many hatcheries have discontinued Araucanas due to breeding challenges, some still offer them seasonally:
- Cackle Hatchery (previously offered from 2012-2016)
- Awesome Araucana (focuses on hatching eggs rather than live birds)
2. Local Breeders
Finding local breeders through:
- Farmers markets
- Poultry shows
- Online classifieds (Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace)
- Local farming cooperatives
3. Poultry Associations
Contact the Ameraucana Breeders Club for leads on Araucana breeders. While focused on Ameraucanas, members often have connections to Araucana sources.
Alternative Blue-Egg Layers
If you’re primarily interested in blue eggs rather than strict breed standards, consider:
Ameraucana Chickens
Ameraucanas were developed from Araucanas but have tails and lack ear tufts. They come in eight recognized color varieties and consistently lay blue eggs. Learn more about egg colors from different breeds.
Easter Eggers
These mixed-breed chickens can lay blue, green, or even pink eggs. While not purebred, they’re more readily available and often hardier.
Preparing for Your Araucanas
Before bringing home Araucanas:
- Ensure proper housing – learn about coop size requirements
- Understand their special needs (they may require assisted mating)
- Prepare for lower hatch rates if breeding
- Have a plan for chicken care when you’re away
Buying Considerations
| Factor | Consideration |
|---|---|
| Age | Chicks vs. adults – chicks need brooding |
| Shipping | Many breeders prefer selling hatching eggs |
| Price | Expect to pay more for this rare breed |
| Health | Ensure NPIP certification for disease-free stock |
Caring for Araucanas
These chickens require standard care with a few special considerations:
- Monitor for breeding difficulties
- Watch for signs of genetic issues in tufted varieties
- Provide standard chicken nutrition
- Offer protection from predators (their rumpless nature may make them more vulnerable)
Egg Production
Araucanas typically lay about 3 blue eggs per week. Production may be lower than more common breeds due to their genetic challenges.