Chicken breeds for newbies

[GlitzieChick]

looking for the best chicken breed for new chicken owners? Suggestions?

 

[PioneerChicks]

Well, that depends on what you want them for. I highly recommend Barred Plymouth Rocks and Rhode Island Reds, both are great layers and can also be good meat!

 

[JacinLarkwell]

I've had good luck with standard Pheonixes. Great mothers, great foragers, great family units

 

[GlitzieChick]

Laying for sure. I also would like them to be big and interesting looking. Looking for a friendly breed. I have grandchildren that will be around a lot.

 

[GlitzieChick]

I've had good luck with standard Pheonixes. Great mothers, great foragers, great family units

Thanks! I’ll check them out.

 

[GlitzieChick]

Also, do you all use hatcheries? If so which is a good one? I’m in Va. Never bought a chicken in my life.

 

[JacinLarkwell]

They love roosting though at night

 

[JacinLarkwell]

Also, do you all use hatcheries? If so which is a good one? I’m in Va. Never bought a chicken in my life.

I have used Ideal, Cackle, Stromberg, Meyers, Murray McMurray and I also order shipping eggs from eBay.

Feed stores also have some more common breeds in the spring

 

[HappyClucker7]

If you want big and friendly breeds, then maybe these would be good. Cochin, Orpington, Barred Rock, Brahma, and Australorp.

 

[PioneerChicks]

If you want friendly and laying, again I recommend Barred Rocks, and Buff Orpingtons too!

If you have a Zam-zows or D&B Supply near you, try those. But currently everyone is buying chicks so you might have a better chance placing an order at a hatchery. If you want adults you could check with a local chicken group on Facebook or something. I like Dunlap Hatchery best.

Make sure to research and prepare well for your chicks. Good luck!