Best Chickens For Oklahoma??

[MrsMeat]

In three weeks we are finally moving to our 20 acres (east of Norman, OK). I've been researching chickens and know that I want hens that lay extra large eggs and are good producers.
I'm leaning towards the isa brown's. Pros? Cons? How do they do in the OK heat? The OK winter?
Do you recommend a different breed of great egg layers for Oklahoma?
Help! I'm a newbie Coop will be built in the first week at our new place and I want to get chickens as soon as its done!
Also, where in OK can I purchase chickens that are 3-4months?! THANKS!!

 

[Bo Garrett]

I would say fried chicken is the best choice for Oklahoma considering the summertime heat we have!!! But in all honesty I would go with Mediterranean breeds such as leghorns, catalanas, minorcas, spanish, etc.... These birds were developed along the Mediterranean coast and would tend to have more tolerance to heat than others, plus they are well know for laying lots of large white eggs. Just remember in Oklahoma starting in early June you will need to keep some fans on your birds to help them keep cool, the extreme heat can begin here that early and can be deadly if not taken seriously.
Best wishes on your chicken endeavor!

Blessings,

Bo

 

[NanaKat]

Bo has given great advice.

Check out the OKIE thread in the Social Section under Where am I. There are a number of Oklahoma breeders with birds in different age ranges as many auctions you could attend. Many of our BYC folks attend those auctions.