First time chicken owner-best breed?Brahma?

[Canadianhobbyfarmer1994]

Hi there,

I'm thinking about adding chickens to the list of animals on our little 40 acre hobby farm next year, in Alberta Canada. I'm doing research before we commit. One of her biggest considerations we have to look at is what breed would be the best for a first time owner in our climate?

I had originally thought about leghorns since they are said to be a hearty breed and popular in the area. However having recently seen a post about Brahmas and seeing how docile, hearty (especially against the cold), and versatile they are as a breed, I'm leaning towards them.

Any input would be appreciated.
Thanks!
Randy

 

[chickenlittle21]

Leghorns are heat hearty, not cold hardy and they are very small and skittish.

 

[chickenlittle21]

Brahmas, Easter eggers, or wyandottes would be great breeds for your area.

 

[Gray Farms]

Orloffs are great layer and very cold hardy.

 

[JadeFarms]

Orpingtons are really good, brahmas are a good choice, Wyandotte’s are great for both climates, and Easter Eggers are good.

 

[GermanKennhuhn]

Welome to BYC!
Australorps, Easter Eggers, Orloffs, Wyandottes, Orpingtons, and Brahmas are all hardy. In my experience, EEs aren't very docile, but I suppose it depends on the individual.
In a draft free, well ventilated coop, the breeds listed above (along with other suggested breeds) should be fine.
Good luck!

 

[cherrynberry]

I would recommend Easter eggers, all but one of mine are docile ( I would definitely recommend hand raising ) and my other recommendation would be barred rock. They are good at foraging and cold hardy

 

[Cinnamon Roll]

Based on my experience, Brahmas are very prone to scaly leg mites. I would not recommend them.

 

[chickenlittle21]

Welome to BYC!
Australorps, Easter Eggers, Orloffs, Wyandottes, Orpingtons, and Brahmas are all hardy. In my experience, EEs aren't very docile, but I suppose it depends on the individual.
In a draft free, well ventilated coop, the breeds listed above (along with other suggested breeds) should be fine.
Good luck!

The reason I didn't suggest australorps is because they have big single combs so they can easily get frostbite in winter.

 

[GermanKennhuhn]

The reason I didn't suggest australorps is because they have big single combs so they can easily get frostbite in winter.

Good point. I haven’t had problems with that, but then again my climate isn’t as cold. Didn’t think it would be a problem in a well ventilated coop, but I could be wrong.