More questions on breed - should i go with a mixed flock or one breed

[toofoul]

Hi all,

OK, i have decided that I can fit four hens in my backyard (still have to make a coop). As a beginner, would it be ok to have a second breed in the coop? i was thinking of getting two Australorps and two Orpingtons. would this be a good flock? as per my first post, im after pets and layers.
Cheers
Adrian

 

[speckledhen]

That's fine. I like variety! You never know which you'll like best, so I think it's good to try more than one breed to start.

 

[Mahonri]

I've always preached that variety is the spice of life and I've gone through numerous varieties of chickens in the past two years... but now I've settled on Blue Wheaten Ameraucanas.

I'd start out with a variety and see what you like the most.

 

[embkm]

Austalorps and Orpingtons are great choices for first chickens. They are generally sweet and hardy and should get along well with each other.

The only thing I have noticed about my mixed flock... either get pairs of breeds so they each have a "buddy"... They do tend to stick with each other. OR get one of each... odd ones seem to get picked on, esp if they are at the bottom of the pecking order.

 

[TwilightMom]

I've only had my chickens for 2 months now...I have seven chicks and 6 breeds. My Orps stick together and seem to be co-bossy! My poor little cochin is at the bottom, she is so sweet but is always last to eat treats and gets the most pecks

So far I like having all the different breeds! But I do favor the Orps!

 

[buckaroo's wife]

Go with variety! I have one Buff and 3 easter eggers - and now one barred rock as of yesterday. My 4 original girls get along great. The buff is very sweet. Good luck, and keep us updated!!