Need help with picking a breed

[jaimslee4u]

I have used breed choosers before but can't really find what I was looking for so I am asking the experts.

We currently have 4 hens and room for atleast 2 more. In the Spring I want to buy some new chicks to add to the flock.

I want to find a bird that will show well at local poultry shows, is friendly (I have young kids) & easy to handle, will winter well (southern Maine), produce eggs, and is pretty....

Currently I have two buff's and two rocks. Any ideas?

& where to find them that will ship two chicks? The local places don't sell all the special birds.

 

[muddipuppy]

My Pet Chicken, I believe, is the only place that will sell as few as 3 chicks. They need each other for warmth. You could always order more and then sell the ones you don't want.

 

[Chris09]

muddipuppy: They need each other for warmth.

I second that..

jaimslee4u: Currently I have two buff's and two rocks

When you say Buff's do mean Buff Orpingtons? Or something else?
( There is a lot of Buff breeds out there )

Are your Rocks Barred Rocks?

You might consider a different color of the same breed you all ready have...

Chris​

 

[ethingtonart]

I vote for a true Ameraucana. They are really pretty and sweet, they lay blue eggs (which will be a big hit with the kids) and they are cold hardy.

Check the Ameraucana breeders club for pictures and a listing of breeders near you.

edit to add... man, I sound like an advertisement

 

[muddipuppy]

Cochins and Brahmas are huggable and kid friendly as well. You could get bantams or standards.

 

[muddipuppy]

I would look at the breed list from mypetchicken.

http://www.mypetchicken.com/chicken-breeds/breed-list.aspx

there's a lot of good information there.



good luck!

 

[muddipuppy]

what about silkies?

 

[joletabey]

Meyer's Hatchery will also send as few as three.

 

[herechickchick]

I would say Speckled Sussex. Very pretty, good layer and tolerates the cold well.

 

[Eggzactly]

Speckled sussex