Barred rock layers

[Caleb999]

First off, if this is the wrong section I apologize, I am still pretty new to this sight. I'm looking to add onto my flock. Currently, I have a few Rhode Island red hens, about a year old. I want to add two or three barred rock layers to my flock. I'm just wondering if there are any pros and cons I should know about. Also, are they truly cold hardy. They will have a well insulated coop, and a insulated run for winter, but is that enough. I live in eastern Ontario, so it can get pretty darn cold.
Thanks.

 

[Mountain Peeps]

First of all, you must understand that adding new chickens is not an easy or quick process. You have to quarantine the new birds which can take around 4 weeks. Then you must introduce them slowly and carefully. The introduction process itself can take anywhere from a couple weeks to a couple months. Since Rhode Island Reds tend to be on the more aggressive/bossy side, it might be hard introducing new birds to them. But you can certainly give it a shot. But before you do anything, be sure to read these three helpful articles.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/adding-to-your-flock
https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/introducing-new-chickens-using-the-see-but-don-t-touch-method
https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/...often-underestimated-part-of-raising-chickens

Good luck!

 

[Caleb999]

Thanks for the advice. I will certainly keep it in mind.