I've got a smallish coop that's ready to go for my new flock. I've raised ducks before in the past, but I'm about to be a first-time chicken owner. These will have to be secret chickens, because althought they're legal in our neck of the woods, our HOA says no chickens. (Here's my new coop if you want to see size - it's about 5 feet tall and about 6-7 feet long I think? https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=144226) We live in FL so it's hot hot hot here...
So... I thought that three birds would be a good number for a small flock.
I need not-too-noisy and not-too-airborne.
My primary reason for the hens is for eggs and also the enjoyment of our family (2 small boys - ages 3 and 5). I really want birds that will be friendly to the boys... I know temperament is individual, but I'm not going to purposely pick a bird that is known for a rough disposition.
I'm considering the following birds:
Americauna (might be a generic EE - the feed store said Americauna, but I read that sometimes it's an EE) - I like this for the pretty eggs.
Buff Orpington - These just seem like sweet birds...and are pretty too.
Barred Rock - A photo of a Barred Rock made me decide to get some secret urban chickens... so I feel like i oughta own one of these.
RIR - I've heard they're good layers and friendly enough. This is the bird that I think I'll pass on for the above 3 types... maybe???
And I will admit to completely falling in love with those poofball disasters - the silkies. LOL. I can't get enough of them... I said I'd only get 3 birds and I'm sure adding a silkie to the mix would be too much and I've read she might get picked on.
Any thoughts for me on what to choose? I mean I get that it's just personal preference, but I'm wondering if having 3 hens of 3 different breeds will work out - and if any of those breeds would be better for me?? And if adding a silkie is the dumbest idea I've had in a long time. Should I get 3 of the same breed? Or just randomly pick three breeds?
Thanks in advance for any advice everyone!
*******PICS ADDED OF NEW FLOCK*********** (um... I forget what page...
So... I thought that three birds would be a good number for a small flock.
I need not-too-noisy and not-too-airborne.
My primary reason for the hens is for eggs and also the enjoyment of our family (2 small boys - ages 3 and 5). I really want birds that will be friendly to the boys... I know temperament is individual, but I'm not going to purposely pick a bird that is known for a rough disposition.
I'm considering the following birds:
Americauna (might be a generic EE - the feed store said Americauna, but I read that sometimes it's an EE) - I like this for the pretty eggs.
Buff Orpington - These just seem like sweet birds...and are pretty too.
Barred Rock - A photo of a Barred Rock made me decide to get some secret urban chickens... so I feel like i oughta own one of these.
RIR - I've heard they're good layers and friendly enough. This is the bird that I think I'll pass on for the above 3 types... maybe???
And I will admit to completely falling in love with those poofball disasters - the silkies. LOL. I can't get enough of them... I said I'd only get 3 birds and I'm sure adding a silkie to the mix would be too much and I've read she might get picked on.
Any thoughts for me on what to choose? I mean I get that it's just personal preference, but I'm wondering if having 3 hens of 3 different breeds will work out - and if any of those breeds would be better for me?? And if adding a silkie is the dumbest idea I've had in a long time. Should I get 3 of the same breed? Or just randomly pick three breeds?
Thanks in advance for any advice everyone!
*******PICS ADDED OF NEW FLOCK*********** (um... I forget what page...
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