Mixing up heritage breeds?

[SharChe]

My local hatchery offers a package of heritage breeds - Buff Orpington, Brahma, & Ameraucanas - I am thinking that I would like to start with this little group in the spring. BUT my plan was to have a small, self-sustaining flock, so I'm wondering if these birds will cross breed and whether or not that's a good thing?

 

[chickmama1662]

If there is a rooster in the batch, he will not care what breed the others are. This will only be a problem if you are going to hatch the eggs and want to keep the breeds pure. Then, of course, you would need a rooster to go with each breed of hen. If you are not going to hatch the eggs, then no problem. It will also not be a problem if you don't mind "barnyard mutts". Hope this helps.

 

[MamaBear46]

barnyard mutts are great starter birds as well and are usually pickedup for next door to nothing . just my opinion

they help you work out any issues( such as coop /predator problem) without investing lots of cash

 

[ChickensAreSweet]

Nothing wrong with barnyard mixes. The only thing I would avoid is the tiniest bantams with large fowl roosters (like Nankins and d'Uccles with large roos). They can kill the tiny hens through internal damage.

 

[SharChe]

Thanks for the advice. I've been doing more research on those specific breeds - I think I am going to ask the hatchery if I can get a mix of Orpingtons & Brahmas. Both embody the characteristics that we are looking for. We live in northern Ontario so we need a bird that is hardy and a good winter egg producer. There are just so many beautiful chickens available it is hard to decide. I just know that I am done with the quick growing cornish.

 

[ChickensAreSweet]

Thanks for the advice. I've been doing more research on those specific breeds - I think I am going to ask the hatchery if I can get a mix of Orpingtons & Brahmas. Both embody the characteristics that we are looking for. We live in northern Ontario so we need a bird that is hardy and a good winter egg producer. There are just so many beautiful chickens available it is hard to decide. I just know that I am done with the quick growing cornish.

Also Partridge Chanteclers come from Canada. Depends on what you like in a chicken's appearance, too.
http://www.feathersite.com/Poultry/CGA/Chant/BRKChanticler.html

Orpingtons have single combs (easier to freeze).

http://www.grit.com/multimedia/image-gallery.aspx?id=1344&seq=25