Breeder versus hatchery

[DownwardDog]

Thanks, everyone! So much to think about. As in all genetics, what a bird looks like is tied to their behavior, so I am way more interested in how friendly my birds are and whether they lay an adequate amount of eggs than whether they are pure to breed standard. Ultimately, all breeds began as mutts anyway! So I guess I'm looking for recommendations of breeders from people who have family-friendly, healthy, good laying hens. The breeds I'm interested in are RI Red, Ameraucanas or Easter Eggers, Australorp, Plymouth Rock, Sussex, Wyandotte and a Welsumer.

What a terrific resource sites like these are. I truly appreciate all the feedback!

 

[gg706]

You may be able to find some of the breeds you like locally. Otherwise I would probably just go with a hatchery. If you are not concerned about the looks, a hatchery bird would probably be just fine. Do some research and see what the hatchery bird looks like in comparison to a breeder bred bird and you will see the differences. If you decide to go with a breeder. Duane Urch has several of the breeds you listed and he is supposed to breed the best. His chick prices of course reflect that at $7.00 where a hatchery bird is around $3.00. You also must order 25 chicks. Good Luck! Let us know what you decide!

Edited to add....I have read some people were unhappy with the temperment of their hatchery birds. Do some research here on BYC and find a recommended hatchery if you decide to go with a hatchery.