The Ameraucana breed was formulated and standardized, primarily in the north central U.S., to provide a colored egg fowl possessing practical and true-breeding characteristics.

Ameraucanas were recognized as a separate and distinct breed in the early 1980's

The Australorp was developed, not surprizingly, in Australia from Orpington stock. It is noted for its egg production, and although smaller than the Orpingtons (Australorp cocks weigh about 8 1/2 pounds compared to an Orpington's 10 pounds) they still carry a fair amount of meat. Their skin is white. They are active birds that lay tinted eggs. With a greenish sheen to their black plumage, a flock of 'Lorps looks quite lovely on the lawn on sunny days.