New member desiring some advice!

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sigmachigirl

sigmachigirl

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Hi there! I'm new to this forum, but am in desperate need of some advice! We live in the Puget Sound area, have 2 kitties, and 2 dogs, and a sweet almost 6 year old little girl and we would like to get some chickens (probably just 3). I thought I knew what breed I wanted, (Brahmas originally), but in looking at what is locally available, I'm now flip flopping. Our desire is really just to enjoy the birds, and also take advantage of the fresh eggs, and will be allowing them to free range for much of the day. I am still in love with the looks and gentle temperament of the light brahmas (plus i think they are gorgeous). I would also love a buff orpington. I do however love the look of the mottled java, Dominique and barred rock. I'm not sure about the personalities though... Any thoughts? I want some nice friendly and affectionate girls who won't be aggressive towards each other. Also, trying to find a place who has those breeds so I can order them together to try and cut down on pecking order.
 
Welcome to BYC!!!
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Glad to have you aboard!!
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Hi and welcome to BYC from northern Michigan
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Google the Henderson Chicken Chart, it has useful information on different breeds including temperament, egg laying and weather tolerance.
 
Welcome to BYC! This is a fantastic site that has really helped me out when I've had any questions about my flock. :)

The only breeds you listed that I have experience with are buff orpingtons and barred rocks. Buff orpingtons are so ridiculously sweet and docile, I'd definitely recommend. Barred rocks...they have lots of personality. But all the barred rocks I've ever had have been a bit flighty and bossy to the other girls. Sweet, just flighty. :'D Though they are at least hardy! Not that mine acts like it of course, heh.
 
Greetings from Kansas, sigmachigirl, and
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! Pleased you joined us! The only breeds you listed with which I have first hand experience are the Buff Orp and Barred Rock - both of which I think are great choices. In think so much has to do with how they are raised that any number of breeds will fit the bill. Good luck to you!
 
Thanks! Well, now I have another question!! I do think we'll get the brahmas and orpingtons, *if* I can find them... One feed store has 3 brahmas that are at 4 weeks... They did also have some 4 week buffs, but apparently they got mixed with another type of hen and now they can't tell the difference! I'm sure as their big girl feathers come in it will be more obvious, but I think he said Rhode Island Red, and don't they have different temperaments?? We want calm, gentle, sweet and friendly little girls! If we did get all the one breed, is 4 weeks too late to really acclimate them to being handled and gently loved on? And what the heck would I do about the fact I was hoping to have a month to address the real coop? Anything we could do in a pinch for very short term?
 
I also have to say, I am equally excited and scared to death to raise chickens! My daughter and I have been wanting them for a few years, but only recently realized we may actually be able to get our wish because of new/adjusted regulations in our area.
 
sigmachigirl said:
Thanks! Well, now I have another question!! I do think we'll get the brahmas and orpingtons, *if* I can find them... One feed store has 3 brahmas that are at 4 weeks... They did also have some 4 week buffs, but apparently they got mixed with another type of hen and now they can't tell the difference! I'm sure as their big girl feathers come in it will be more obvious, but I think he said Rhode Island Red, and don't they have different temperaments?? We want calm, gentle, sweet and friendly little girls! If we did get all the one breed, is 4 weeks too late to really acclimate them to being handled and gently loved on? And what the heck would I do about the fact I was hoping to have a month to address the real coop? Anything we could do in a pinch for very short term?
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I think the Buffs will be a lot...well, Buff colored and the RIRs will be more reddish. At 4 weeks I think you should be able to tell. I do think Buffs are a more friendly and docile breed than RIRs...some will disagree. The younger the better for acclimating and taming...but calm voices, slow movements, and treats go a long way to taming down chickens. You can make a makeshift coop out of almost anything...a big washer or fridge box for instance. If they have to be outside just make sure you buy something in which to enclose them from predators - chicken wire is good for keeping them in but no so good about keeping out a determined predator. Also maybe accelerate your time line on the coop!
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sigmachigirl said:
I also have to say, I am equally excited and scared to death to raise chickens! My daughter and I have been wanting them for a few years, but only recently realized we may actually be able to get our wish because of new/adjusted regulations in our area.
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Go to the Learning Center link below. The various tabs within it give you the ins and outs of responsible poultry care....it really isn't that daunting. Proper food, water, and shelter. Do that and your more than half way home! You can do this!!

https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/
 

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