GETTING CHICKENS!

[AnnableChickens]

We're in Florida and we're getting some chickens soon, we're going for three! Any suggestions on breeds? They're not to eat, only for the eggs!

 

[FlyRobinFly]

This is a great place to learn and share about poultry.
What breeds you get depend on what you want from your flock. I wanted a variety of egg colors and that could forage and live in the wet environment here in WA, so I chose breeds (listed in my signature below) that produced different shades and fit those characteristics. Some breeds are noted layers, so if it's quantity you're after, go for some of those. Lots of profiles here, and people you can talk to who have those breeds.
Good luck choosing, that's always the fun part!

 

[bucky52]

i have three red star.and they have not stopped or slacked off laying.i do have lights in the hen house which we hve turned off because i wanted them to take a rest.but they continue to lay.

 

[weimarmama]

&

from Alabama. Glad you joined us. Try checking out the Breeds section on here.

 

[chickenpooplady]

from southern Ohio!!!

 

[GoldenSparrow]

Welcome!

 

[b.hromada]

and

from S. Florida, to another Floridian! Its great to have you join us! There are so many breeds to choose from. I really love the Barred Rocks, they are quite sweet and docile, and they lay real well too. I'm sure you'll find lots of breeds that you like! Enjoy!

 

[OldGuy43]

Howdy from Austin, Texas.

 

[gryeyes]

Welcome from California!

Next to BYC, my most frequently accessed web site is Henderson's Handy, Dandy Chicken Chart, at http://www.ithaca.edu/staff/jhenderson/chooks/chooks.html Whenever I see a breed I want to add to my flock, I check the Chicken Chart and make a decision based on the information there.

As for a recommendation, I think folks new to chickens should start with Plymouth Rocks, especially the Barred ones, commonly called Barred Rocks, and some Black Australorps and Buff Orpingtons. All three breeds are docile and friendly. The Barred Rocks and Australorps will be your best layers. If you want more colors in your egg basket, try to get some Easter Eggers. Nothing like gathering eggs and getting those light green ones!

 

[S&N Livestock]

from Ohio