My Ameraucanas (?)

[KanrininDawn]

Hi, I'm new around here and to chicks. I just purchased my first 5 splash Ameraucana chicks on Saturday (2 days ago) from a local farm/seller. Because they sell at a local venue, I didn't see the potential parentage so I'm not 100% sure on the quality or breed purity. At the very affordable price I paid, I'd honestly be surprised if they were anything more than mass-produced paper back version, but they're my babies and I'm so happy to finally have them. If things go well and I increase my flock later, I'll hunt down more reputable breeders, but right now that's just not a thing.

I'm attaching some pictures and will update here and there to see how they're coming along, in case anyone is interested. I'll also be happy to hear opinions you more experienced folks have.

I'm also not sure if this is the right section for this thread. If not, please move me.

 

[Wereplatypus]

Absolute cuties!

 

[TwoCrows]

Aww...cutie pies! Can't wait to watch them grow here!

 

[KanrininDawn]

Snack time...

 

[TwoCrows]

Snack time...View attachment 3508912

 

[KanrininDawn]

I'm beginning to see distinguishable differences so I can kind of tell them apart.

These aren't names, just the mental descriptor to tell them apart. I'm open to any gender-neutral name ideas!

("Little gray" or "little buddy") has feathers coming in that are more gray than white so had an overall darker look. It's also got the most personality. It's very brave, social, and always has to be in the middle of whatever I'm doing.

("Yellow") has yellow feet and mostly white wing feathers.

("Beaky") has a very slight cross beak that I just noticed today.

("Lefty") has a larger patch of black/gray on the left wing.

("The other one") none of the above.

 

[KanrininDawn]

What is a reasonable age to let them take contained visits to the yard?

 

[TwoCrows]

What is a reasonable age to let them take contained visits to the yard?

At their age, if it's above 70 and sunny, I'd take them out for a mini field trip! 10 mins at first so as not to stress them. You can also lay down an old bed sheet in the living room, (lock up all danger...cats, dogs, etc...) and sit with them. They will become lap chickens this way.

 

[KanrininDawn]

I want lap-chicks!

 

[TwoCrows]

I want lap-chicks!

If you do the living room sheet thing, being that they are nervous being in unfamiliar territory, they naturally gravitate to your lap. If you do this daily, by the time they go out to the coop, you will have lap warmers.