Florida or Southern Breeds???

[cowchipss]

I'm starting up a small backyard flock and have more breeds available to me than when I raised chicks growing up. When I was a kid, I know we raised Barred Rocks, Araucanas, Rhode Island Reds, and Black Austrolrops. They all seemed to handle the heat fine from what I remember in an uncovered/unshaded run with a coop. However, the tractor that I am building will be covered to keep it shaded and dry.

The two breeds that I am new to are the Silver Laced Wyandotte and the Buff Orpington. I like that both of these breeds are described as calm and/or docile since it's a small yard and in a residential neighborhood. I decided to shy away from the breeds described as more "active" and "vocal". I know it will also just depend on the chick I get as I'm sure there are the occasional active and vocal Orpingtons or Wyandottes. Does anyone else keep one or both of these breeds in Florida. I have read a lot about the Orpington being bigger and quite fluffy which has made me question if it will be comfortable in Florida... but the feed store is carrying it so......

Both of these breeds look beautiful and sound friendly so I'd really like to have them in my flock but want to make sure they won't be suffering. Again, they will be in a covered/shaded run in North Central Florida. Thanks!

 

[A.T. Hagan]

They'll both be fine.

I haven't found any breed that cannot be kept in Florida so long as they've got shade, good air flow, and plenty of fresh water.

 

[cowchipss]

A.T. Hagan

Thanks, I figured as much but since I found this board it's nice to hear from others. I'll take care of the water for sure. Shade and open (air flow) but safe from predators are two main criteria for my coop design so I think we're good. Thanks again

 

[Pinky]

I have Buff Orpingtons and they do fine in hot weather. I think you'll love them.

 

[dawg53]

A.T. Hagan :

They'll both be fine.

I haven't found any breed that cannot be kept in Florida so long as they've got shade, good air flow, and plenty of fresh water.

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[welasharon]

My SIL has nothing but buff orps. They are big! He has two open air pens. North walls are tin and they have short side walls forming a U. No coop. Mine are open air too with no coop only partial walls. It helps with the heat and air flow. Mine are completely covered on top: his have only the top over the solid wall part. He has had them for five years now and they do fine.
sharon