Can you recommend a breed??

[UrbanFarmer]

I am interested in getting a few (2 or 3) chickens and have been looking at many sites. They are allowed in my city, but no roosters within city limits. What would you recommend for me. I would like a friendly type bird, that is cold hardy and would be okay hanging out only in the coop and run occasionally. We plan to let out chickens mostly hang out in our fully fenced backyard. Thanks!



Update: Any kinds with feathered feet. I love the way that looks. Or is it more hassle than it is worth?

 

[hypnofrogstevie]

The most friendly I had was barred rocks and orpingtons. I want to hatch orpingtons again real soon.

 

[shelleyb1969]

I am raising silkies and bantam cochins....both very friendly chickens, as well as just beautiful to look at.

If you live in the city, I suggest bantams. Compared to standard breeds, bantams aren't as messy, don't eat as much, and are quiet. Whichever size, standard or bantam, you decide on...just RESEARCH the breeds and continue to ask questions about them. The biggest mistake people make is not knowing the facts BEFORE they acquire new pets...chickens included.

 

[Henrietta23]

If I had to choose only one breed I'd pick Red Stars. Mine have always been friendly, calm and great egg layers. They're a pleasure to have around. I've had more of those than any others though, so I may be biased!

 

[NS2A]

I'm a big fan of buff orpingtons. I'm in Minnesota and they were just fine in the unheated, uninsulated coop last winter. Layed all winter too!

I have cochin's now, but they don't seem as friendly as the buff's, Maran's or even EE's. They're nice birds, but they're just kind of ok for me.

 

[Henrietta23]

I should add that I have my first two BO pullets now and they're almost as sweet as my red stars so I can second (or third or whatever) that recommendation as well!

 

[speckledhen]

If you love feathered feet, you could try a Brahma. Their eggs are on the small side the first year, but humongous the second. Very mild mannered, feathered feet, lays through winter, pretty to look at, too.
My fav breed is Barred Plymouth Rock for true personality and excellent laying consistency. Eggs are ex large to jumbo after year or so.

 

[KKluckers]

Orpingtons. They are a good winter laying bird and have a great laid back personality.

 

[gritsar]

I have only one breed and they are the only breed I'm interested in having, the brahma. They are everything speckled hen said and I know from my own birds that they are very heat tolerant too.
Have you seen this chart is your search on the net?
www.ithaca.edu/staff/jhenderson/chooks/chooks.html

I found it to be very helpful when I first starting researching the different breeds.

 

[UrbanFarmer]

Wow. Thanks for the link to the Chicken Chart. Very Helpful. I am trying to figure out about what type I will want, I don't plan on actually getting any until the spring, though. Gives me plenty time to get ready. I think I may have narrowed it down to brahmas , cochins or orpingtons.