Aracauna Chicks

[Barb Root Hinkkanen]

I purchased 42 Aracauna eggs. Five survived, and a sixth died getting out of the shell. They will be two weeks old tomorrow. They are adorable and already starting to fly. It’s way too hot here to put them outside. I have lodging for them until the temperature cools down.

Only one has developed a tuft, and it looks like only one. I just hope I have more hens than roosters. I don’t plan on breeding for hatching eggs. It’s too hard with the lethal gene.

Any input? I know they are Aracauna.

 

[BlindLemonChicken]

I don’t have any input other than to say good for you! I love them but I wouldn’t be able to handle those odds. Keep us posted! Pictures always welcome!

 

[Barb Root Hinkkanen]

I don’t have any input other than to say good for you! I love them but I wouldn’t be able to handle those odds. Keep us posted! Pictures always welcome!

I have been looking at their eggs for years and decided to try them. I am an eternal optimist so was just sure I would beat the odds. When the little chick died, almost completely out of the shell, I was really shocked.

The breeder told me to expect only 10-15% before he would even sell me the eggs. We spoke on the phone and he took the time to explain the lethal gene thoroughly. He has been raising Aracauna for 45 years, is considered an authority, and has published a comprehensive book on them.

I went into this new adventure with open eyes. I love blue and green eggs. I will keep my little mini flocks separate and just see what happens next. I just love my chickens.

 

[BlindLemonChicken]

That’s great you found someone who breeds them! I have always wondered how many breeders there are. You would really have to love the breed and be dedicated. I guess eventually it would get less discouraging. Do you plan on breeding them with something else? Are you going to keep the roosters?

 

[Barb Root Hinkkanen]

That’s great you found someone who breeds them! I have always wondered how many breeders there are. You would really have to love the breed and be dedicated. I guess eventually it would get less discouraging. Do you plan on breeding them with something else? Are you going to keep the roosters?

Currently no plans for expansion. I want them for myself. I had one that hatched from a purchased lots and she was a real little doll. Something got her and I really wanted to try. The man raising them is retiring; I have his book and he called me personally so I will call him if I need more information.

As for the roosters, I will see how they react with each other and the hens. If they are sweet and friendly, they will stay here. If not, either a bachelor's coop or give to one of my chicken friends.

 

[Barb Root Hinkkanen]

I chatted with the seller today. I am learning SO much. These chicks may be ‘Mapuche Race or Ketros!’ So cool; I am doing some research now.

I do believe that I hit the jackpot!

 

[BlindLemonChicken]

That’s amazing! @Perris posted this link on another thread and it’s a very interesting read-thought you might be interested if you haven’t seen it already

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/281454484_ETHNO-ORNITHOLOGY_AND_HISTORY_OF_THE_MAPUCHE_FOWL