Mixed Flock - Question about Delawares

[Gritkicker]

Ok, I haven't had chickens in years. This year I just bought 11 chicks, 3 buffs, 2 Black Australorpes, 3 Bard rocks, and what I believe to be 3 delawares. I've had Australorps and Bard Rocks before and I was really happy with their demeanor and just the overall way they acted, even the Roosters were great. I had a Black Australorp Rooster who was amazing. This time around though, I decided to pick a Buff Orp Rooster. I hope he pans out well, I hear they can be great but have heard a few stories from customers at the feed store where I work that they can be a bit feisty. Any Rooster can though, I've had my share.

Anyways.. the delawares. I heard they were docile and good chickens, then I decided to check this site and it has mixed reviews. Some say they aren't good flock birds. Thoughts? They also say they're egg eaters.. I've had my chickens eat eggs in the past, but that was because I was an idiot and showed them how to do it (I was young) I won't be doing that this time around. So yeah, I'm just curious to see what people think about having delawares in a mixed flock. I don't want to be stuck with problem birds. I kind of doubt some of the bad reviews. I've never really had a problem with any hens at all before.

(Sorry if this is in the wrong forum thread)

 

[Michael OShay]

I've raised Delawares in the past and never had any problems with them. While I wouldn't put them quite on the same lap pet level as my Buff Orpingtons and Black Australorps, my Delawares were always docile and got along fine with my other breeds; and I never had any problem with them eating the eggs.

 

[Gritkicker]

Thanks Michael. I'm not too concerned with my Delawares being lap level pets, so that's fine. I'm going to try and buddy up with my Buff Rooster, that's about it, I've never had a problem with hens. This will be a first time for having Buffs, but I pretty much hear nothing but good things about them, I was just a bit worried about the Delawares after reading some stuff on this site. One article/review/whatever said they weren't good flock birds, but gave no explanation that's what prompted me to make this thread. I'm sure they'll be fine, thanks again.

 

[Michael OShay]

You're welcome; and good luck with your Delawares. )