Best breed??

[RobinB84]

We are expanding our chicken family.. I have read reviews, but would like some opinions. I am looking for family/people friendly, decent egg layers, tolerate heat decently. Recommendations are welcome And who do I purchase from (eggs or chicks)? There is nothing local that I have found.

 

[Wyandottes7]

I recommend Wyandottes and Easter Eggers. Both are docile birds, that in my experience, enjoy people and are friendly. My Wyandottes laid nearly 300 eggs in their first year, and my Easter Egger laid about 270, so they are certainly decent egg layers. Of the two, the Easter Egger is a little more hardy in the heat (not so many feathers). But, both breeds have survived temperatures over 100 F fine.

 

[RobinB84]

Thanks so much for the info! How many do you have???

 

[Wyandottes7]

Thanks so much for the info! How many do you have???

I have two large fowl Wyandottes (one Columbian and a Silver-Laced) and several Wyandotte bantams, and one Easter Egger.

 

[Gayleyy]

I love my Ameraucanas, they did just fine in both summer and winter, lay really pretty eggs and are sweet as can be. I also really like my Leghorns, they lay more eggs, larger eggs and did great in summer and winter. They are not as sweet, but they are not really skittish, they just are not as friendly and think everything is food! Also you have to take precautions with them over winter.

 

[Michael OShay]

I would suggest Black Australorps. I love the ones I have had. They are very friendly and docile and tolerate temperature extremes very well. My best Australorp hens were better layers than my best RIRs or Easter Eggers (Ameraucanas), laying over 300 eggs per year. You can purchase Australorp chicks from Ideal Poultry in Cameron, TX. I have purchased chicks from Ideal on several occasions and have always been satisfied with the results.