People pay attention to the black Ameraucana chicken for a good reason. It looks good, is practical, and is related to one of the most popular blue egg breeds for backyard chickens. A real Ameraucana should have qualities that are typical of the breed, not just a blend of traits. That means that muffs, beards, tails, pea combs, and blue eggs are important right away. When setting expectations, think about being patient instead than panicking. Many black Ameraucana hens start laying eggs when they are 5 to 7 months old. Pullets that hatch in the spring usually start in the late summer, fall, or early winter. August to December is a usual time for this to happen. If you give them the right food, space, water, and light, they will usually get there on their own time.