Should I get a BA or a Jersey Giant?

[ErinG]

I'm not too picky, I'd just like a black bird for variety, but I'd like to hear people's preferences. I would like a friendly chicken. I'd also like lighter colored eggs, and may be leaning toward the BA for that reason and the fact that they lay better. But I also like the idea of having a giant! What do you prefer?

 

[Illia]

If you're getting from a hatchery, feedstore, or local neighbor/backyard breeder - It honestly doesn't matter. The Jersey Giant may possibly lay less or later, but hatcheries breed both to the point that they both look the same, lay great, and are the same size anyway.

Otherwise, if you're looking for more true type birds - Australorps are indeed a heavy layer, on the world record in fact, but Jersey Giants lay a very nice, light, almost pale pink colored egg, and mine lay just as well as the rest of my breeds. It is going into winter, raining like crazy, and I still get some JG eggs.

Also, the fact that true type Jersey Giants are rare and a very large, docile bird (and I mean LARGE) also adds to the pros.

 

[ErinG]

I wish I had room for both - I'm learning to build big! I think I am always going to want more chickens!

 

[ErinG]

Thank you for your reply.

 

[Happy Chooks]

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