I originally bought some Barred Rock chicks about ten years ago, and didn't find them to be anything special. Now that I have raised them again, they've become my favorite breed, topping Rhode Island Reds. They each have a different personality, become quite a bit larger than the Reds and are intelligent enough to huddle together in the cold. They're great survivors, and produce high quality eggs. I don't always offer calcium supplements until winter when foraging isn't as good, but they don't need it otherwise. When left to free range, they are wonderful at keeping themselves fed, putting themselves to bed at night and continuing to produce great eggs. There will always be room for a Barred Rock in my coop!