Mixing breeds

[Hrtofau2]

I am setting up my hen house as we speak, I have picked up 6 chicks, 2 buff orpingtons, 2 barred rocks and 2 rhode island reds all pullets. I had researched before buying my chicks, however I am now second guessing myself.

Is this a good mix? I have now heard that RIR can be very aggressive towards the other 2 breeds. How much truth is in that? I am getting them for eggs and for my daughter to show in 4H.

Also, nest boxes..how many nest boxes should I have and what size? Thank you for taking time to answer a noobs questions!

 

[Ridgerunner]

You should have a good mix. Any chicken can possibly be aggressive toward any other chicken. Some people have aggressive Buff Orps, some have aggressive Barred Rocks, and some have aggressive RIR’s. Many people have these breeds without any aggression issues. It’s just the luck of the draw. Don’t worry about it, you will probably be OK.

For 6 hens, I’d suggest going with two nests. That should be plenty. For those breeds, the minimum size should be 12” x 12”. I made mine 16” x 16”. That suited the spacing of the studs so framing was easy. Often, I find 2 or even 3 hens in the same nest. The extra room comes in handy. There is no perfect answer for this that suits everyone, just make them 12” or bigger.