I would like to agree with lauralou, and choose the Andalusian breed... for many of the same reasons, as well as others.
They are active and entertaining to watch, and exhibit such a variety of behaviors ranging from wing displays, dancing/circling, and a peculiar head shake (which I've only recently begun to notice). These movements all seem to have meaning to them, and that makes them a very communicative breed, in my opinion. Their fancy plumage, and large combs also makes them very beautiful show birds!
Also, they are medium-sized birds which makes them easy to handle. The roosters are not too aggressive and act "gentlemanly" toward their hens, in my experience. The hens are exceptional layers of large, white eggs... every day, like clockwork! (Andy eggs may seem smaller than those of other large egg-layers, but they are actually comparable in weight. Their eggs are just a bit longer and thinner, rather than having an overall rounded appearance.)
I love the personalities of Andalusians, and appreciate the distinction of this breed for scientific reasons, as well. It was the "blue gene" color traits of this breed which was used by the biologist, Gregor Mendel, to study codominant gene expression. For all of these reasons, I believe the Andalusian deserves to be preserved for future generations of backyard breeders to enjoy!
