- Thread starter
- #221
TheYLWFlock
Crowing
Ok good to know, that at least the aren’t particularly susceptible.None of those are particularly susceptible to Marek's, but that doesn't of course mean that they will not get it.
You need to give some consideration to why you are getting more hens when you choose breed.... ie what your goal is? You will be exposing these new birds to risk and the new birds are also a risk to your existing flock, so it is important to think about why you are taking that risk.
Do you want lots of egg production? Different coloured birds or different coloured eggs, or birds that will go broody and raise you some chicks, or even "lap dog" pet chickens? Will you be free ranging or keeping them penned? These are all considerations when adding to your flock.
Out of those you mentioned the D'uccles are similar to pekins (bantam cochins) and will probably go broody and make good pets. Leghorns are flighty birds with quirky personalities and don't care to be touched but are usually the first to greet you and see what you have for them. They do better with more space but be prepared for an egg hunt if you free range! They lay very well and the brown ones are very pretty. I've only had exchequer Leghorns which don't lay as well but I like their black and white flecks. Of the sex links you mentioned, Black Stars will probably outlive ISA Browns which are sadly particularly prone to reproductive ailments once they get beyond 2 years old, but they are lovely friendly birds. I really liked the Black Stars that I have come across and I've even had them go broody and raise chicks on occasion. I haven't had any since I got Marek's though. I don't have any direct experience with EEs. I think they are a bit of an American "invention" and I'm not sure we have them here as such.
The reason we want more is probably for more egg production (we are only getting only like 5 eggs a week) along with variety of egg colour and we just love chickens. We have the space and two more chickens would complete the set. There was a time when we had six and I just really liked that, it just seems little with four. Obviously if there is just too much risk involved in getting more birds, we won’t do it.