Newbie with questions

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Too Late Farm

Too Late Farm

Hatching
5 Years
Jul 18, 2014
3
0
7
Virginia
Hello all! My husband and I currently have 7 horses, 6 goats, 3 dogs and 2 cats. He has been pestering me for months to get chickens. I have concerns and need advice before I take the plunge. Predator control is my biggest fear. I've seen fox, bear and of course my own cats. I'd really like for them to have free range but not sure if that's doable. I have been reading tons of articles on this site and others about breeds. Since my husband will only eat brown eggs I've narrowed my choices to Orpington, Rhode Island, Welsummer and Plymouth Rock. These are also cold hardy which we need in the mountains of Virginia. Am I on track? Any suggestions would be appreciated!

Diane
 
Hello :frow and Welcome To BYC! Sounds like you have a nice farm! Check out the Predators forum for help with predator proofing your coop and dealing with the animals you have in your area www.backyardchickens.com/f/13/predators-and-pests As you mention, unfortunately with a lot of predators free ranging usually isn't possible, you might consider movable electric poultry netting. https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/732607/electric-poultry-fence You might like to check out your state thread for chicken keeping neighbors and what breeds they have had good luck with https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/270925/find-your-states-thread
 
Hello there and welcome to BYC!
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Yes, those are great breeds that lay brown eggs. I keep Black Australorps, which are Orpingtons as well, and they are so gentle, docile and super friendly. Great layers as well. I have some Barred Rock chicks in the flock now. Can't wait for them to start laying too! So I think you have picked some great breeds. The Rock and the Orps will be very cold hardy. My Orps have seen some very bitter sub zero temps and have done well.

Make yourself at home and if you have any other questions, that is what we are here for. Welcome to our flock!
 
Welcome to BYC! Please make yourself at home and we are here to help.

Buff orps are my favorite of all chicken breeds! They are affectionate, curious, very cold hardy, great layers, docile, lap hogs, etc. I love them and I'm sure you will too! You are right on track! Black australorps, speckled sussex and barred rocks are all great too.

Feel free to ask any questions!
 
I know black Australorps are highly recommended and understand they lay big, brown eggs. Actually I don't notice any difference in taste between brown/white eggs. Maybe you could just dip eggs in chocolate and please your husband
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