Rhode Island Reds

[notsooldmcdonald]

Is is difficult to find a heratige breeder who either ships chicks or eggs?

-Christian

 

[Promiselandfarm]

We have RIRs but our laying stock are hearty, did not come from a hatchery and are show quality for the most part(won at state and local levels). So having good stock may be the issue. My first ones that my husband got me for a gift three years ago are going strong and even in this hot/cold crazy weather are laying better than those who are supposed to lay in the cold. Also some diseases can live in the soil for a very long time. Some roosters can be very nice and sweet others I have heard can be mean again it goes back to the stock. We have one that is very nice to other roosters and one young one that is not mean but he is not the kindest in the bunch either.

 

[Laskaland]

Quote:

Boy I can relate!!

Did you get the two sets of early dying birds from the same source? I have to ask, but could they have been production reds instead of RIRs? I have heard their lifespan is significantly shorter...
Just not sure, but from all I know RIRs are really hardy
Christina

 

[ebonykawai]

Quote:
No, there are a decent number of excellent breeders out there. The Poultry Press is a very good resource. Gordie Sturnweis has particularly wonderful reds, even my roo from him is a sweetie. Duane Urch is good, too, as well as Joel Gilman.

 

[cmom]

I have RIR's and so far I lost one hen to a preditor and one pullet to illness. That was over a year apart. Looking for a home for a Young RIR Roo.

 

[Beekissed]

Never had a problem with RIRs to date. Good hardy layers, cold resistant, easy feeders and good longevity so far.

 

[corydonald]

RIRs are nice...