Hi. I'm new to the forum

[CheriLee]

I'm in the planning phase, trying to get an ordinance passed so we can have chickens. Doing a lot of research and trying to print a lot of good info to bring to the zoning and planning committee. We're a town close to the city but a lot of acre or more lots. I don't know why they are dragging their feet when all the cities around us allow chickens on their tiny city lots!

We're planning on using an insulated ice shanty for our coop. Still trying to decide what breed of chickens to get for our cold Wisconsin winters. I want really good egg layers and we also want them to be a nice docile breed that we can hold. My mom has chickens and thinks orpingtons are the best. Any suggestions?

 

[gander007]

Alright

great to have you joining the BYC flock

BYC has a very helpful learning center

Good luck on the changing of your local ordinance

 

[drumstick diva]

Welcome to the flock. If you go to "where am I, where are you," in this social forum (side tab) you can locate and post on your state thread. I think that would be the best way to learn what breeds do best in your climate, etc. You may also discover chickens neighbors close to you.

 

[ThomasMcD]

Welcome to BYC

 

[TwoCrows]

Welcome to BYC!

I sure hope you can get some chickens soon. You are going to really enjoy keeping them. They can be so rewarding and great for the soul!

Lots of great chickens out there. I am a huge fan of the Orpington breeds. They are very docile, kid friendly, affectionate, great layers and also quite hardy. My Black Australorps are huge on lap sitting and I can't sit anywhere without a chicken on my lap! Here is a couple of breeds pages that give some quick info on the different breeds that may help you pick the right breed for you...

http://www.sagehenfarmlodi.com/chooks/chooks.html

http://www.albc-usa.org/documents/chickenbreedcomparison.pdf

And if you need any other tips and hints on raising your new flock, stop by our learning center for lots of great reads on all the aspects of keeping poultry...

https://www.backyardchickens.com/atype/1/Learning_Center

Good luck and I sure hope you can get your chickens soon!! Welcome to our flock!

 

[Kelsie2290]

Hello and Welcome To BYC! You've gotten some good ideas above on figuring out what breed for you, when you have narrowed down the choices be sure to check out the BYC Breeds section for member reviews on a lot of breeds. You might want to consider one of the commercial Red Sex Links (Red Stars, Golden Comets ISA Browns etc), if your primary point is egg laying ability, and especially if you are willing to replace your birds every two or three years when they slow down on the laying. They do tend to be friendly and good with people if bossy with other breed chickens.