Confusing bird characteristics-help

[spacetygrss]

I'm new and trying to figure out what breed(s) to buy (I want 3 or 4 birds for eggs/pets). I was looking at the breed directory on this site's homepage. I notice that there are two entries for a couple of the birds, specifically the Delaware and Plymouth Rocks. For the PR's one entry says that they bear confinement well, while the other says that they don't. This is important since I can't allow the chickens to free range (they'll have to stay in a run). I don't want to be torturing the poor birds!
So, which one is it? Do they deal well with confinement or not?

Thanks.

 

[digitS']

I've had Barred Rocks twice over the years. There are good and bad (or at least so-so's

) about the breed, and probably any breed. And, the BYC breed pages are notes on individual experiences. You probably shouldn't expect to find 100% consensus.

My hens are allowed to free range for an hour or 2 on just about every day. During the first few months of their lives, chicks are confined. The Barred Rocks don't really show much interest in "life beyond the wire" during that time. They are fairly easygoing birds and I think they would be okay with confinement as adults.

White Plymouth Rocks are commercial meat birds or parent stock. They are kept in confinement by the hundreds and thousands.

Barred Rocks were a common commercial laying breed about 80 years ago. I think that as a backyard dual purpose choice, they are great. About the only real problem I can imagine is that they may be challenged in areas with hot climates. My BR hens have lots and lots of feathers and obviously suffer quite a bit on hot days.

On the other hand, they hardly seem to notice cold weather.

Steve