cant decide between a buff orp or salmon faverolle?

[asteria01]

Hi, so recently we went through an oppossum attack in the night, lost 3 of 4 of our chickens. Our sole survivor is a silver laced wyandotte, and she's doing well. We have since then taken preventative measures against predators. I want to get our remaining chicken a companion, but I cant decide between a salmon faverolle or buff orp! We live in a place where it gets pretty hot in the summer (topping 100s). Preferably I want the one that lays better, is quieter, and can take the heat. Friendly Tenperment would be a plus! Any suggestions? Thanks!

 

[keesmom]

My Faverolles hate the heat. So do I.

 

[Michael OShay]

Both Orpingtons and Faverolles are good layers, relative quiet (as chickens go), friendly and gentle (good lap pets), and cold hardy, but neither of them are exceptionally heat hardy. Depending on how hot summers get where you live, you might want to consider Australorps. I raised them for 7 years in the Corning, CA, area where summer temperatures frequently reached 117-118 F (sometimes more), and while my Buff Orpingtons (and my other dual purpose breeds as well) were listless, panting, and holding their wings out from their bodies, my Black Australorps were going about their usual business like troopers. It's not surprising that Australorps would be heat resistant since they are frequently raised in the Australian outback which gets very hot in the summer. In addition, Australorps have the same calm, gentle temperament as Orpingtons and Faverolles and are superior layers to either of those breeds. Whatever breed you decide to get, good luck with your flock.

 

[asteria01]

Thanks guys!. The reason why I'm asking these particular breeds is because someone in my area is looking to sell off some of their birds. I figured if they raise them in my area then the birds should be fine in this weather. Of course I have shade, water etc for the really hot days. That said, it's still super had for me to decide. I've always loved the muffs and such on the faverolles, but the orp is such a good all around breed.

 

[asteria01]

oh also i just realized that broodiness is a factor. which breed is broodier?

 

[Michael OShay]

oh also i just realized that broodiness is a factor. which breed is broodier?

Both breeds will go broody on occasion, but Orpingtons tend to do so more frequently than Faverolles and make excellent sitters and mothers.

 

[donrae]

If mud is an issue for you, you might want to avoid the feather footed Faverolle.

 

[Michael OShay]

If mud is an issue for you, you might want to avoid the feather footed Faverolle.

X2 on that.