I have always wanted to get some Russian orloffs and was able to pick up three on an auction. They are friendly and inquisitive and I really, really like them. I am still keeping a mixed layer flock (without a rooster) for a pretty egg basket that will have cream legbars, one or two leghorns and EE's and a few marans and mixes. (about 8 in all). I want to breed the RO's and have chicks coming from a good source. I hate to say that the heritage RIR's that I had did nothing for me. I thought they were a bit boring. I have always wanted something with a beard and mottling/spangling so I am happy with these. I think I found what is going to interest me. And the orloff club is very nice on line and helpful too.
I have a couple of hatchery quality Russian Orloffs hens in my mixed flock. They are a fun breed. I think it is also interesting that they sound different than my other breeds. Here is Natasha when she was about 4 months old. And Natasha at 2 years old.
What lovely birds! I'd like to own them myself, but I have my hands full with other breeds at the moment. ...I wonder, are their eggs like nesting dolls? Open one, find another, and so on?