Mixed or all the same?

[KaijuChickens]

This spring I am planning to get my first chicks. I am planning for 4 total, but can have up to 6 (hens only, no roosters allowed). In doing research for best breeds and characteristics that I prefer, I have narrowed down the list to a handful of ones I might want (Easter Eggers, Plymouth Barred Rocks, RI-Reds, Ameraucana, Australorp, Brahmas, and Orpington are all on the potential list).

Also during that research, I found conflicting notes about mixing breeds and why it is good or bad to do that. Some sources say mixing breeds is good because if a disease strikes it may only impact one and not the others. (Plus you get a nice variety to watch and interact with)

On the flip side, other sources said one breed may carry diseases that impacts other breeds and not to mix the flock. Other sources also indicate that some breeds dominate others (although all research so far indicates all the breeds I have on my list would mix well if I do mix them).

I am not sure if there is a right or wrong answer, but would like your thoughts... would it be better to get 4 different breeds or 4 of the same? (If I get 4 of the same, I would lean towards EEggers due to the variety of appearance and potential egg color differences).

As always, thanks for your advice!

 

[sourland]

As long as birds all come from the same source, chances are they have the same historical exposure to disease. The birds that you mention should do well together and provide you with an attractive flock. Understand that most hatchery Ameraucanas are Easter Eggers in reality.

 

[Plip]

I'll bet a significant majority of BYC members have mixed flocks. Certainly most of the photos and stories that get posted would indicate that. If you want different breeds, I wouldn't worry about it.

 

[Joeschooks]

I have a mixed flock. I like a bit of variation. Also each hen lays a different coloured egg so I have a nice colorful egg box!

 

[diamondsilkies]

I've always had a mixed flock and never had any problems related to mixing the breeds. I like the variety in my flock, and you'll get a lot of different egg colors!

 

[K813ZRA]

I have two mixed flocks and one non mixed. I don't really see a difference other than that a mixed flock is more colorful. Interestingly all of my birds free range and the three flocks do not intentionally interact but stick to their own flock, mostly.

 

[camochick96]

I have a mixed flock of one Easter Egger, one Barred Plymouth Rock, one Rhode Island Red and one Silver Laced Wyandotte! I love having a mixed flock so easy to tell them apart and each lays a different egg!

 

[Whit Roohens]

I have a mixed flock. I was careful to choose breeds with docile, friendly personalities so they all get along well. An avian vet I spoke with said that most people with backyard flocks aren't as susceptible to diseases breaking out if they aren't close to neighbors with chickens and are careful to quarantine any new birds brought in to the flock before allowing them to mix.