Finding the right breed for me

[acl68025]

I have always wanted Dominique's when I start my flock. Recently, I brought home a few excess rooster's from a friend that we are going to process. 3 RIR's & 2 barred rock. I was explaining to Hubby that the Dom's that I want are similar to the barred rock's. He looks at me and said " nope, no way. Too small. I want big chicken like those red ones". Ugh!!!! So I need a large breed, dual purpose, good forrager & I would like it if they were decently broody. Suggestions please

 

[trailrider330]

Are your RIRs and Barred Rocks the same age? At full maturity they should all weigh about the same (7-8 pounds). Dominiques are only about one pound smaller at full maturity, so maybe you can use that argument with your hubby. Plus, Rhode Island Red roosters do have a reputation for not being the nicest in the coop, though RIR hens are probably the best layers of all three breeds.

Otherwise, you can also look into breeds like Orpingtons and Wyandottes. They both come in a lot of interesting color combinations so you may be able to find a color combination that really interests you.

Really, there are many other breeds that will fill your needs as well. You can try sites like mypetchicken.com which can give you lots of info on various breeds to help you find a breed (or breeds) you can both agree on.

Let us know what you end up with!

 

[trailrider330]

Try this from mypetchicken.com to narrow down some possible breed choices.

http://www.mypetchicken.com/chicken-breeds/which-breed-is-right-for-me.aspx

 

[trailrider330]

You could also consider Cuckoo Marans if you like the coloring of the Dominiques. They lay a very dark, chocolate colored egg if that interests you.

 

[acl68025]

All I can tell you is that all 5 roos were "this spring hatch". The RIR are probably right about the 8 pound mark. The BR's are probably 4. Thanks for the links. I'll check it out

 

[junebuggena]

Are you planning on keeping your roosters housed separately from the hens? If you keep that many boys within sight of the hens, there could be some serious problems. If you planning on giving each boy his own flock, then you're going to need to get about 8 hens per boy. That's a lot of birds to manage for a first time chicken owner.
If your husband wants big birds maybe look into Jersey Giants.

 

[junebuggena]

I have 6 Barred Rock hens. They range from 5 pounds to about 6 pounds, which is pretty big considering they are hatchery stock.

 

[acl68025]

I don't have any hen's. Just the 5 roos that my friend gave me. Planning my flock for next spring

 

[acl68025]

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Well, crap

 

[junebuggena]

I realize that. I was asking how you are planning on housing them long term. I would like to help you avoid serious problems and heartbreak if possible. Roosters are not the easiest creatures to keep, with all that testosterone and all.
I see from some of your posts you're a horse person, would you keep 5 stallions anywhere near a mare?