Choosing Breeds!

[ChickenGirl555]

I found this tool to be pretty useful in finding the breed for you. I don't know if it's exact but it gives you an idea of what might be good for your lifestyle and your expectations:
Breed Selection Tool

 

[IzzyMom]

Nobody has mentioned Speckled Sussex, the friendliest hens ever!!! They are decent layers, beautiful, and very interactive.
I've had Buff Orphingtons, and not loved them. No doubt different family lines behave differently, but mine were not friendly, dumb, and died young.
EEs, French Marans, and Welsummers all lay eggs of different colors that are nice in the egg basket, and are pretty birds.
Get a mixed group, and see who appeals to you. It's fun!
Mary

I agree! My very first hen was a Speckled Sussex (named Izzy - hence my profile name). She was the best girl!! Beautiful to look at (like she'd been caught in a snow storm!), and sweet as could be. She was my lap girl, and a faithful layer.

 

[Larry55]

To be honest i pick breeds that are cold hardy and lay good. My chickens arent my pets. They are doing a job for me. Laying eggs and helping eat ticks in summer.

 

[Amer]

To be honest i pick breeds that are cold hardy and lay good. My chickens arent my pets. They are doing a job for me. Laying eggs and helping eat ticks in summer.

Yeah. I like Buckeyes because they are all those things and friendly.

 

[(chicken pun)]

Wow, I never expected to get so many replies! I'll try to get back to you all, but I might miss some of you so sorry if that happens!

 

[(chicken pun)]

To clear up a few things, I am not a beginner, I've had chickens for years, however I am somewhat new to hand raising chickens and have only hand raised 4 salmon faverolles.

 

[(chicken pun)]

It's so nice to hear from all of you about your wonderful chickens! I tend to get smaller flocks so it's hard to choose which breeds to get, so thanks for making it easier to pick! Speckled sussexes seem like such nice birds so I'm considering getting some along with Cochins, Orpingtons and Brahmas.

 

[Brahma Chicken5000]

It's so nice to hear from all of you about your wonderful chickens! I tend to get smaller flocks so it's hard to choose which breeds to get, so thanks for making it easier to pick! Speckled sussexes seem like such nice birds so I'm considering getting some along with Cochins, Orpingtons and Brahmas.

Sounds like a good mix of friendly, fluffy, & docile breeds. Enjoy them

 

[(chicken pun)]

Thank you all for helping! It was wonderful hearing from you all and I really appreciate the support!

(if you were wondering why I'm posting so slow I've just been kinda lazy today)

 

[Folly's place]

Love the Favorelles!
Mary