Good layers and good-natured as well, the Ameraucana breed is one of only three breeds that lays blue eggs. This is a good choice for those who want something simple and easy to manage.

Ancona are some of the best layers, producing 5-7 eggs a week, though they have a tendency to be wiler than most and do enjoy a good fly once in a while, making them a bit harder to keep fenced in.

Strong egg layers but flighty birds, Andalusians are a rather active breed and can run very fast. They also tolerate cold climates very well. They also make for good show birds.

The Appenzeller Spitzhauben thrives in cold weather as it was bred in Switzerland. They are known to have a very distinct personality and are enjoyable to watch as they climb trees and search endlessly for bugs.

Though they have high mortality rates in the egg, the Araucana breed is a good dual purpose chicken with strong egg producing qualities and enough meat for a meal. No other birds look like the Araucana does.

The Aseel is a very strong and aggresive breed, known to fight at all times. However, they are very docile toward humans. They serve as a good foundation stock for meat producers.

The Australorp is a hardy dual-purpose breed, capable of laying 5 eggs a week once they reach the age of 5 months. These are a very each breed to handle at any skill level, making them great for beginners.