Help in Arkansas

[Acarn00]

We live in rural Arkansas & I am wanting to have my own flock of chickens. My problem is it gets very hot here in the summer (100+ with 75-80% humidity) & in the winter it gets really cold (20s or below), what breeds of chickens do well in that kind of temperate variation? I have done some research and Brahmas, Leghorns, & Rhode Island Red seem to fit the bill. If anyone has any advice or personal stories about these breeds please let me know how well they worked out. Thanks!

 

[redsoxs]

Greetings from Kansas, Acarn00, and

! Pleased you joined us! Yes, last summer was a bear wasn't it. First off, forget about the cold, particularly the winter temps in AR. If your birds have a draft free (but still insulated) coop, they will be good to go. The heat is a bigger issue. I nearly had two buff orps stroke out on my last year. I'd opt for lighter (in weight) breeds. Large combs dissipate heat. Make sure you have shade, constant fresh water, and access to breeze. But all in all, chickens are tough and resilient critters and many breeds will do just fine in your climate. Below is a chart of some breeds you might consider. Good luck and have fun!!

http://www.ithaca.edu/staff/jhenderson/chooks/chooks.html

 

[drumstick diva]

Go to the "where am I, where are you," forum and find your state thread. You'd probably find someone in your area who could speak from first hand experience.

 

[Mr MKK FARMS]

Welcome to BYC!!

Glad you joined us!!

 

[Kevin565]

 

[Acarn00]

Thank you everyone for all the help & support! I think this forum is going very helpful as I move forward in getting my chickens

 

[liz9910]