Cornish - A good choice for a sustainable & free ranging flock?

[kristen2678]

We have been considering meat birds for a few years now. I think I like the Cornish. We are looking for a bird with minimal comb for the Maine winters, a good/great forager, something we can process in the 12/13 week range (or less), and something with dark coloring. We'd likely keep a quad every year so we can raise our own. I had also considered Marans or Welsumers but I worry about grow out time.

Thoughts?Suggestions?Other ideas? Thanks.

 

[Chick Charm]

For sustainability you could use any number of chickens. For the 12-13 weeks you could use cornish. Or have you considered crossing a cornish with a partridge rock. You'll get a little more meat and still have a darker color.

 

[kristen2678]

Crossing with a rock is a nice idea. Could give them better egg production too.