Advice on adding to flock

[the_damsel]

I've poured over breed descriptions until my eyes blurred over, and I finally decided to ask all you experts for your opinion. I'm looking to add 4 new laying hens to my flock this year and want to get 2 each of a breed I don't have yet. I'm probably crazy but I have enjoyed getting all different kinds. This is what I have so far:

Plymouth barred rock
Rhode island red
Dominique
Golden sex link
Buff orpington
Wellsummer

I'm pretty sure I would like to try Black australorp, but in your opinion what would be another great breed? I need a cold-hardy, great layer, preferably non-white eggs.

Thoughts?

Thanks so much.

 

[donrae]

Easter egger. gotta have some blue or green eggs

 

[the_damsel]

I've been debating Easter eggers. Are they pretty hardy for cold? How many eggs per week do you get?

 

[donrae]

Mine have always been good layers, 6 or so eggs a week during peak production. I always give my birds a break during the winter, but they tolerate the cold just fine. They're also pea combed, so you don't have to worry about a big straight comb getting frost bit.

Besides the colored eggs, I love the colors the birds themselves come in...and the puffy cheeks......love the puffy cheeks!

 

[song of joy]

Definitely Easter eggers! I have 2 pullet EE. They're friendly, cold-hardy, and good layers . . . and I love the light green eggs!