This is our first year with chickens and I did a lot of research trying to decide what breed would work best for us. I was torn between Barred Rocks and Australorps. Since Barred Rocks were much easier to come by, we went with them.
We have three hens, Hennessy, Henocide, and Murder Parade. Despite the names, they are sweeties and couldn't ask for a better bunch o' birbs.
We got them when they were already 16 weeks old and I worried they'd never be as people friendly as they would have been starting with chicks, but they warmed up fast. Now I'm trying not to step on them following me around, wondering what treats I have for them.
Since they're the only breed I have and they grew up together they aren't aggressive towards each other. I can't even figure out who is head hen because they all seem so gentle to one another and humans. They're big though, so I've heard they can be bullies.
The only thing to remember, although they are relatively quiet, there is always a chance you might get a chatter box. Two of my gals are happy little cluckers. Then there is Henocide, who is always squawking whenever there is someone around to hear her. It's not aggressive or louder than a barking dog. It is actually funny as long as she's not right next to my ear. She just happens to have a lot to say.
Love them.
We have three hens, Hennessy, Henocide, and Murder Parade. Despite the names, they are sweeties and couldn't ask for a better bunch o' birbs.
We got them when they were already 16 weeks old and I worried they'd never be as people friendly as they would have been starting with chicks, but they warmed up fast. Now I'm trying not to step on them following me around, wondering what treats I have for them.
Since they're the only breed I have and they grew up together they aren't aggressive towards each other. I can't even figure out who is head hen because they all seem so gentle to one another and humans. They're big though, so I've heard they can be bullies.
The only thing to remember, although they are relatively quiet, there is always a chance you might get a chatter box. Two of my gals are happy little cluckers. Then there is Henocide, who is always squawking whenever there is someone around to hear her. It's not aggressive or louder than a barking dog. It is actually funny as long as she's not right next to my ear. She just happens to have a lot to say.
Love them.
