Im New, looking into starting my new flock

[Astaggs05917]

Input on breeds that are more on the docile side, medium egg laying, of course I love beautiful hens and roosters

 

[sourland]

Attend a local poultry show and see what breed you find to be attractive.

 

[Astaggs05917]

Thanks, is Spring a better time to attend a poultry show? And i was looking for experienced flock keepers to give me insight on breeds they like and for what reasons.

 

[Chickens :)]

Depends on the ones available to you. There are some really lovely, docile, family friend chooks out there that are great layers. For example: Australorps or Sussex who lay about 300 eggs a year. Other birds like silkies are lovely smaller birds that will lay about 200 eggs a year and can be used for show if that’s what you are into. You can also get some really funky birds like auracanas that lay lovely green/blue eggs and have unique feathers on their face. I would recommend chickens in your area because they are used to the environment already.
Good luck with your flock!

 

[Astaggs05917]

Thank you so much. I have an interest in the silkies and Ameracaunas. I will look into the Australorps.

 

[HenHouse4Life]

Welcome to BYC!
Your location will determine what flock you can or cannot have. Temperature where you live, city or rural area, are you allowed a rooster....etc.
Buff Orpington pullets are a great starter bird. They're friendly and lay decent eggs. They can go broody but mine rarely do.
Speckled Sussex pullets are another great first time bird, also friendly and lay well.
Do some research on birds that fit your lifestyle and location, there are many breeds to choose from.
Good luck!

 

[Mrs. K]

I know where you are headed, but I would recommend a variety of birds. I do not know how many times, I was sure I would not like or would like this type of bird, only to be proven wrong. Try several different kinds of birds, it is better to just get started than to over think it.

Mrs K

 

[Pork Pie]

This link may be interesting - https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/category/chicken-breeds.16/
I agree with Mrs. K - starting with a variety will help you decide which breed(s) is right for you. It's also worth bearing in mind that not all birds will conform to their general breed characteristics.

 

[DesertBird]

I personally started with Plymouth Barred Rocks and they're great, but we fairly quickly expanded our flock with some other breeds. I agree with Mrs. K and Pork Pie - it's always fun to have some other breeds together and lets you get to know what you want more of, if you want to expand more.

 

[BullChick]

This video is about 15 minutes, and will tell you just about anything you might want to know about 20 popular breeds and their eggs.