Chickens for the backyard

[RendonRoo]

Just wanted to say welcome to BYC. I agree that you should research those sites and pick what's best for your situation. Everyone has their favorite breeds that suit their needs or wants in raising chickens. I have 6 different breeds and love them all for various reasons. Only you can decide what's best for your situation. I'm sure you will be pleased with your choice. Good Luck and Happy Clucking

 

[gardenak]

from AK!

I have a mix of 10 breeds, that are 2.5 weeks old and at this point, I'm only partly sure what they are. One of them is a real sweetie; wish I could tell you what she was. Another BYC'er sent me an older (6 week old) EE and a 4 week old barred rock and both of them are real sweeties too. I hand feed them treats and cluck at them a bit. I think almost any chick can be good with the family if it's raised around them.

 

[alyssa558]

My EE is an absolute sweetheart and she's a great layer. My Buckeye is the MOST docile and she is a super-awesome layer. My favorite is my Madagascar Games (naked neck) since she is totally darling but she's not such a good layer. I also have a California White and a Brown Sex Link who are calm and the best layers of large eggs. My Red Leghorn and Ancona are total idiots and would rather run into a wall than let me come near them.

 

[CrystalMS]

You guys are great ! Thanks for all the great info, that helps me get started!

 

[Becky_H]

My suggestions would be sex-links. They're awesome birds, good layers, and you won't have to deal with 'unexpected' roosters. \\

 

[northerncaliforniachick]

sounds like you got some great advice already. I am just starting out (week 2 with my babies) and went for an assortment.
Rhode Island Red
Barred Rock
Red Sex Link
Black Australorp
Giant Cochin

Having tame sweet chicks was most important, great eggs being second on the list. I hold mine all the time and they are all very sweet. My favorite surprised me- the lorp- she is soooo sweet!
Have fun- hope you love your chicks as much as I love mine!

 

[SportTees]

Quote:
Its a matter of opinion as far as if they are good pets. Production Reds or Cochins or barred Rocks.

 

[moonflowers]

Take a look at this chart:
http://www.ithaca.edu/staff/jhenderson/chooks/chooks.html

I just got chickens and have found that so far my Buff Orpingtons are by far the friendliest (I bought them for that reason). Mine aren't laying yet though.

 

[R@ndy]

Welcome, Awesome group here at BYC

Indeed I'm learning Polish are very friendly and sweet, Delawares are awesome too

 

[Chickenmaven]

If you can find a BYCer near you, you may find some very nice chickens & a local resource.
I love my cochins and Dominiques - Beautiful, friendly birds.