I wanted to update you all on the lost Ameraucanas - they finally arrived this morning shortly after 6 am, I went right to the PO and picked them up, had the postal employee cut the zip ties and tape so I could photograph my dead or dying birds. We opened the top and the cock FLEW out of the box - thank goodness no one had the door open! 4.5 days in a box and they appear to be fine. I can only attribute their survival to the excellent health and vigor the breeder breeds for. I gave them sips of water at the PO, brought them home, put them into the coop and run, they scratched around a bit, the cock puffed up for the RIR cock next door, and then they both commenced eating and drinking. They seem quite unbothered by the entire ordeal, unlike me, who needs a week off to recover! I was planning to stay home and keep an eye on them, and DH thought that was a pretty silly idea, so I came to work. He called a little while ago and said they still look fine, and cannot believe it.
I am relieved and amazed.