First Hens

[oceanviewchickens]

Hi there!
I am new here, and new to chickens. We are excitedly planning are first flock for this spring, and are torn between a few breeds. We are from New England (cold winters), and we have young children, so we have narrowed our choices down to a handful of hardy, friendly hens that are good egg layers. We are looking at Black Australorps, Barred Rocks, and Ameraucanas. Do you think these breeds of chickens would be a good match for me? Also, would it be safe to house these breeds together in the same coop if we decide on a couple different breeds?
Thank you in advance!

 

[EvaRay1525]

Thats wonderful! Since the winters are cold where you live I think that Barred Rocks, New Hampshires, Delawares, but the 3 best docile chicken breeds are Silkies, Orpington's, Australorps. I would recommend New Hampshires or Silkies since I own a few of them and they are absolutely loving

 

[oceanviewchickens]

Thats wonderful! Since the winters are cold where you live I think that Barred Rocks, New Hampshires, Delawares, but the 3 best docile chicken breeds are Silkies, Orpington's, Australorps. I would recommend New Hampshires or Silkies since I own a few of them and they are absolutely loving

Thank you for the reply! What a pretty bird, I look into them!

 

[Sally PB]

I love my Black Australorps, and they have handled our (pathetic) Michigan winter very well so far.

 

[KyCoop]

I'm no expert yet but my Barred Rock Martha is very sweet and gentle. My Australorp Ruth is curious and friendly.

 

[JessesChickens101]

Australorps are sweethearts Heat and cold hardy

 

[black_cat]

All of those breeds are generally considered 'beginner breeds' and I have had no bad experiences with them. Ameraucanas are a bit expensive, so I would probably go with easter eggers instead.