New to chicken. Need advice on pullets/breed.

[Diggidy]

Hello,

I live in Tucson, Az where it is hot and dry. I hope to get 3 chickens here shortly for eggs and pets. Ideally I want at least one that is a friendly breed that my wife can enjoy, hold, pet and all 3 need to be quiet because I live in town. From what I have read the Rhode Island Red and Barred Rock are a good place to start. Also, pullets are cheap and plentiful right now (15-16wks). Is there a disadvantage to pullets? Are they wild from sitting in the coop at the feed lot?

Thanks in advance!

 

[drumstick diva]

If your wife wants a pet chicken, I suggest a silkie- I think pretty much any chicken can be tamed thru food/treats but it could take a lot of time and patience.

 

[redsoxs]

Greetings from Kansas, diggity, and

! Pleased to have you with us! If you can get pullets at 15-16 weeks on the cheap I sure would - they are about a month or so from laying age and you didn't have to raise them. And yes, RIRs and BRs are great breeds and will take the heat alright (provide lots of fresh and cool water, lots of shade, and breeze when possible). Some folks use misters on their garden hose to keep their birds cool). In terms of taming they down...at the 15-16 weeks, if they haven't been held or had much human contact they will be flighty and jumpy. They can be tamed down with patience, a soft voice, slow movement, and bribery in the form of treats. They will come around and become friendly. Good luck to you and have fun!

 

[Scrambled8]

I would say silkies. You can really priss them up

 

[Mr MKK FARMS]

Welcome to BYC! Glad you joined us!

 

[liz9910]

Welcome to BYC! Silkies are very cute and tame.

 

[Diggidy]

I don't like how they look but she might. Are they heat tolerant? Looks kike thoae feathers would be a disadvantage

 

[annewandering]

I have found the red sex linked to be surprisingly friendly. Any of my five will jump up on my knee before any of the others we have and enjoy being petted. I dont even feed them treats. They are very curious and adventerous. Mine are from McMurrays if that makes a difference.