it seems there is hardly any fans of the rhode island red on here

[denahli]

I think some people shy away from RIR because of so many reports about them being 'overbred' and no longer as docile and personable as they once were. even some hatcheries will recommend the friendlier off-shoot, the New Hampshire red.

i think a lot of a birds temperment relies upon its handler as well, though I can say I do notice a difference in the overall temperment of the modern RIR compared to the RIR 20-25 years ago. but thats just my personal observations.

Wiki says this about the RIR, but as i said above a lot of it has to do with the owner so keep your chin up and if you love the RIR keep on keepin' on...

"Although usually friendly, Rhode Island Red roosters, and sometimes hens, can be quite aggressive towards young children and adults. Most roosters will also attack strangers (humans or animals) if they feel nervous or have never seen the intruder. They are usually friendlier with familiar people, such as those responsible for feeding. Both hens and roosters are known to be aggressive with other chickens, especially in confinement."

 

[sbluvinit]

I love my red bird also, she gave up her first egg at 4 months old. She is very vocal and I even taught her some tricks, She will sit for cheese and jump high for cheese. She is my most vocal bird too.

here she is my beautiful red bird

 

[a2ms4chickens]

I love my RIRs!

I have 1 RIR roo & 2 banty hens, 1 RIR cockeral & 3 pullets (teens), & 3 banty cockerals(?).

My banty hens have found that they like to go broody, and they are good mamas. They often do this together.

My banty RIR is in charge of the flock, right now, and he does a great job. We'll see how it goes when the RIR cockeral gets a little older.

 

[EllyMae]

I have a RIR/BR cross. She is my best egg layer and is the most animated of my chickens. The rest of my chickens are barred rock so she is the "odd ball", lol.

 

[Davaroo]

Quote:
Youre kidding right? RIR's are like the best sort of wife - not real flashy, but really good to live with.

Ill take them any time... and just might before long.

 

[BearSwampChick]

Love my Reds! They're so inquisitive and friendly.

 

[HorseFeathers]

I

RIRs.

anyone who doesn't

 

[speckledhen]

Thought I'd add pics of some of my four dark RIR pullets, out of Julie's stock (BamaChicken). They are 16 weeks old.

 

[DouglasPeeps]

I have 16 RIR's, so half of my flock is made up of them. I choose them mostly because of their egg production. I couldn't be happier. They do not shy away like some of my other breeds.

They continue to be a favorite year after year.

 

[josh_bigler]

good looking dark rir's you got there speckledhen, they appear to be around the same age as mine! mine turned 4 months old today!! cant wait untill they start laying