Mixed flock breed suggestions

[tsperry88]

Hi everybody. New member here. We had a few dozen chickens for a number of years growing up, but that was 20 years ago, so I'm pretty much a newbie.

I have a large secluded yard surrounded by woods, and would like a mixed flock of about 15 good free rangers.

Breeds I am looking at are Rhode Islands Reds, Speckled Sussex, Welsumer, and rose comb brown Leghorns. Are these compatable breeds for a mixed flock? Should I include another or remove a breed? If I only have one rooster, which breed would you pick?

My coop will be 8'x6.5' plus external nesting boxes. Sufficient?

I live in Virginia.


Thanks for your help!

 

[Tre3hugger]

Hello. I would say those are compatible, I have at least one of each(but my leghorns are white & flowery) and everyone gets along just fine. Will this flock be primarily for eggs? If so, those breeds would definitely fit the bill, and be beautiful. Here is a pic of my speckled sussex, welsummer, and 2 leghorns respectively.

 

[tsperry88]

Thank you. My flock will be for eggs only. White leghorns would add some color to the flock, but I thought brown would give them a better chance of not getting eaten.

 

[Tre3hugger]

Hm that is a sensible point, never thought of the camouflage apsect.

 

[tsperry88]

Having trouble choosing a rooster. Preferably a breed least likely to attack children. Jersey Giants seem to have a good reputation, but I'm worried their size may hurt the smaller hens.