- Jun 29, 2010
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I am starting over with my flock and am wondering which breed to go with. This was my first flock and I had them for about 2 1/2 years. I had Rhode Island Reds, SL Wyandottes, and a few guineas. LOVED the fullness of the SLW. Both breeds (SLW & RIR) were very affectionate. However, my SLW most often had their back feathers pecked out and I had egg-eaters (hence the reason I am starting over.) I introduced new chickens into my flock but the egg-eating continued. I will be getting new guineas; but they will be roosted in a separate location with more freedom to roam. My new flock will be in a pen with some freedom in my yard.
My question: Is mixing the breeds a good thing? Is one of these breeds more likely to eat eggs? Is one more dominate than another? I want a flock which is gentle. I live in Texas and both breeds handled our cold weather okay. My RIR would sit; but I never had a SLW try to sit on her eggs. I hatched out three times and enjoyed the experience. I am not interested in using an incubator so nature just takes its course.
I have learned so much with my flock; but hated the egg-eating and balding of my hens. I kept my rooster's claws clipped so I don't really think that was the problem.
Any suggestions would be appreciated. I will order my new chicks in March so I thought I would see what insight others might have.
My question: Is mixing the breeds a good thing? Is one of these breeds more likely to eat eggs? Is one more dominate than another? I want a flock which is gentle. I live in Texas and both breeds handled our cold weather okay. My RIR would sit; but I never had a SLW try to sit on her eggs. I hatched out three times and enjoyed the experience. I am not interested in using an incubator so nature just takes its course.
I have learned so much with my flock; but hated the egg-eating and balding of my hens. I kept my rooster's claws clipped so I don't really think that was the problem.
Any suggestions would be appreciated. I will order my new chicks in March so I thought I would see what insight others might have.