Help on choosing breeds...

[eggcamefirst]

So I have spent the last few months doing research. I have read "Raising Chickens for Dummies" book, read some FAQ's on this site as well as looked over various posts on the message boards. After ALL of that here is where I am, I want to raise somewhere between 4-6 egg layers with an option to raise some babies in the future (not right now). I was leaning towards some Plymouth Rocks for laying and maybe a Silkie or two to raise some chicks down the road.

I plan on waiting at least a year before buying chicks/eggs and in 6 months will be contructing the coop and run. They will not be free range.

Will these two breeds get along?

Are there other breeds that you would recommend for laying/raising chicks (are the Silkies too small for PRs)?

Any responses would be much appreciated.

And, yes I realize that this could be the start of something horribly addicting...


Lewisville, NC
Zone 7

 

[muddyhorse]

those two breeds should go well together. where are you getting the birds ?

 

[eggcamefirst]

No idea...I looked online and found some places that ship, but I would rather get them locally if possible. Any suggestions?

 

[briteday]

Where you live helps to determine the breeds you are considering.

Silkies, being feather footed will not do well in wet climates. And if you have limited space you will need to get a silkie pullet/hen from someone who is raising them. If you get chicks it could be 6 months before you know the gender. And you will most likely only need one silkie hen as a broody mom since they go broody, IMO, fairly easily and often. Cochins or orpingtons could be another good broody choice.

Rocks are good egglayers but some can be not so nice, find someone who has a flock you like to get birds from.

 

[eggcamefirst]

Are there other good layers that would be a little "nicer" in general? Or does it just depend on the bird?

 

[speckledhen]

My Plymouth Rocks are awesome, friendly, calm, etc. There are some exceptions, but usually a Rock is a great all-round bird. You can try Buff Orpingtons. They are sweet birds and on occasion, most of them will brood. I also love my true Ameraucanas (not hatchery stock). They are so sweet and super friendly, great layers, etc.