I haven't had any hardiness issues whatsoever (other than an overly aggressive roo that came-down with hardiness issues after he lunged at me one too many times).
Since you brought that up, I'm going to go out there and smell mine today.
I love my SS; regardless of the roo; he is an aggressive and mean spirited idiot and I don't care who he tells; it's the truth!
Now that's what I'm talking about!
As wonderful as my SS hens are, the roo; Arthur, is positively a menace! He attacks every time someone enters the pen. This may require some blood-letting.
Anyone with a solution other than eliminating him from the land of the living?
I do appreciate a true "sports fan."
If this one of mine continues to charge me every time come close to his pen, he will taste the agony of defeat!
I hate it because I love SS; the hens are gentle and low anxiety; they're good layers. He; well he's a bad boy.