Newbie, hello from va!

[ekalbach]

Hi all! This is our first time raising chicks. So far we have 3 Rhode Island reds and 2 barred rocks. I was thinking about getting a couple silkies. We already have our brooder and our coop set up. Any advice or suggestions is greatly appreciated!
Thanks!

 

[sunflour]

Glad you have joined us.

I don't have experience with Silkies, but aren't they all small chickens.

IMO, Silkies mixed in with RIR and BR would be at the bottom of the pecking order and I would be concerned about bullying.

There are so many with lots of experiences with mixed flocks on this site, if you don't get more opines here, then you should post the question on raising baby chicks or managing your flock.

 

[Yorkshire Coop]

Hi

Glad you could join the flock! I too would have to agree that silkies would maybe not do well with the larger breeds. Drop by the Silkie thread though for more expert opinions on mixing them from other silkie owners. Here is the link https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/297632/silkie-thread

Wishing you the very best of luck with your chicks. Enjoy BYC

 

[sumi]

Welcome to BYC

You got some good advice above. Enjoy the site!

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! I'm glad you joined us!

 

[drumstick diva]

Silkies and Polish tend to be bullied and feather plucked because they look so different from a regular chicken. Also they are docile breeds and have obscured vision from their big crests - so vulnerable to predators. They are worth the extra effort to protect them.

 

[Chicken Girl1]

Hello from a fellow Virginian

and Welcome to BYC!

Glad to have you join! Feel free to make yourself at home! x2 on all the great advice given to you!

 

[Wyandottes7]

Welcome!

I'm glad you joined our BYC "flock".

I don't think that Silkies would get along well in that flock. They are smaller than those breeds and more submissive generally, so could be picked on. Also, Silkies can't see as well because of their crests so can't escape attacks. Some people keep Silkies with other breeds successfully, but I wouldn't recommend it.

Good luck with your flock! Rhode Island Reds and Plymouth Rocks should be excellent layers for you.

 

[City farm]

Also, think of egg basket... Our silkie went broody 4x last year.. She hardly layed any egg's.. But we love her so much & she is a fabulous mom..

 

[Kelsie2290]

Hello and Welcome To BYC!