I have a mixed flock of seven currently and two of them are Black Australorps. They are without a doubt the boldest of the bunch and will always be the first to rush me at the gate for attention and scraps. They don't mid at all being held and petted and my two year old (who isn't very delicate at picking them up) carries them around in all sorts of awkward positions and they just calmly let her. Never ever aggressive. Super friendly birds. They are great layers. They were the first to start laying in my flock and consistently lay an egg a day. I have not had either of them go broody yet. They do eat a bit more than my other hens though, if they have any con at all it would be that. But overall, I highly recommend this breed, especially as pet chickens and for families with children.