new to chickens

[ohiodad]

My family and I were just given a very nice coop and run. We are wanting to raise layers to help support our family (just for food) and others we associate with. Can you help me on what the best breed is (for year round brown eggs). Since we are new to this advice on all aspects of raising layers are helpful.

 

[The Zoo]

I adore my barred plymouth rocks - lovely brown eggs, pretty 'chickeny' looking hens and nice dispositions (come running when I open the back door, can be picked up and handled and ADORE treats).

 

[tasymo]

Are you in a zone where you get harsh winters? Some breeds are suitable for cold Winters, some are not. I've got two Isa Browns that are said to be excellent layers of brown eggs and can handle Michigan Winters. Lucy and Alice are beautiful "strawberry blonds" with great personalities. Lucy has just started laying for me.

 

[jurisdobes]

We have Black Stars and love them. They laid their first eggs at 18 weeks old and we have gotten 3 eggs a day from 3 hens since then. Nice big brown eggs. They have wonderful personalities, friendly and not flighty.

 

[ohiodad]

I live in central Ohio.

 

[jen5680]

If you are in Ohio then would get the hardy ones that can take the cold. If you want chickens for meat and eggs and have nice tempemants than I would go with the barrd rocks, orpingtons, and australorps.
They are all really nice and good layers and if you want to eat them they are good for that too.