Anyone have opinions on these breeds?

[Draconargentum]

Howdy, folks. Just wanted to get y'all's input on these particular breeds. I'm looking specifically for layers (I really like the dark brown eggs, and the green/blue ones, too), but silkies are in there just 'cause they look fun. Any input as to how quickly a breed matures, how well your representative of a breed deals with people, etc., would be appreciated. Thanks!

Breeds: Ameraucana, Barnevelder, Brahma, Marans, Rhode Island Red, Silkie, Sussex, Welsummer

 

[bunch-a-chickens]

sorry, never had any of them

 

[Cuban Longtails]

RIR - good layer, good natured, easy to raise and keep happy

I have a couple of silkies but they aren't mature yet.

 

[fdnick]

I am really interested in the wheaton and birchin Maran.. hope some of those folks respond :O)
Do not have any of the other breeds....

Denna

 

[FutureChickenMan]

RIR's are the best bet for lots of big brown eggs.

 

[BamaChicken]

I have RIR's and they can't be beat for temperment and egg laying. I love mine. I have had Marans but I don't know if it was heat here or not but they did not lay well for me and I had to sell the Roos after they got mature for flogging me.

I have had but do not have now Aruacanas and I have nothing but good things to say about them but just had to make a decision on what breeds I was going to work with and they were on the bottom.
I have loved silkies every since I layed eyes on them. Love working with them. They are just a delight to my soul.

 

[Katy]

I have marans and welsummers. The welsummers aren't as friendly as the marans, but mine have been more consistant layers. The marans are very laid back...even the roosters.

 

[ksacres]

I have had Rhode Island Reds, Silkies, Brahmas, Ameracanas, and one lone Speckled Sussex. My rating for both egg laying and personality combined:

1. Ameracanas-personality plus egg laying
2. Brahmas-egg laying, less personality
3. Silkies-personality, small eggs thus the third place
4. Sussex-decent layer, decent personality
5. Rhode Island Reds-good layer, no personality

 

[seminolewind]

Black Jersey Giants-layback, great personality, love them

 

[DougD]

Ameraucanas

(true breed - not easter eggers)
Good temperament, not aggresive, good egg layers.