Is it OK to have all different breeds in a small flock of 6?

[keeweekid]

I had a friend tell me that getting a flock of all different breeds was not a good idea, but I don't think she told me why. Is this true? Is there any reason not to mix n match breeds? I want 6 hens, and I would like 4-6 different breeds. Also, we have a fair amount of hawks...is there any reason they would go for the white hens any more than other colors (I would think movement on the ground is what catches their eye...not necessarily color). But I'm not a hawk specialist. Any advice is appreciated.

 

[bugglesmommy]

I have a large number of different breeds of chickens in perfect harmony, including white sultans. If you raise them together you have a much better chance of harmony but my flock accepts new birds fairly easily. You are going to need to watch out for those hawks no matter what breeds you choose, and it would be best to provide some sort of sky protecting like netting over the pen.

 

[MuranoFarms]

I had several breeds in 1 coop for maybe 2 years and they did fine. She might have been thinking of size differences, or temperament differences. That could be an issue, but all flocks work out the pecking order in their own way. I don't see any reason not to keep different breeds in the same flock unless your trying to breed.....but with all hens, go for it!

 

[trapperred]

As for the hawk issue white stands out at even greater distances as opposd to blending in thats why albinos dont do well in the wild I concur unless ur breeding a mixed flocks is a good thing