When I was growing up, our best Roo was a giant New Hampshire red. He was not a hatchery bird. I agree that temperment is bred. Now, my most docile Roo is a Partridge Rock named Tailfeather. He's awesome! I've had alot of RIRs that are tempermental. The one I have now was originally going to be a stew bird(along with several others), but I liked him so much that I decided to name him and keep him. Big Red has turned into the perfect Head Rooster. He is an exception to RIRs. He was already 2-2 1/2 when I got him. Definately get one that is already mature. That way you know what you are getting. I had Barred Rock Roos that were fine too. Bold at times, might peck you(but is being a rooster) but never mean. The Plymouth rocks have been the best I've had so far. I don't have any experience with Faveroles myself, but have heard nothing but good about them.