We raise ducks and quail, and are considering adding a small to medium chicken to our yard. We specifically want a chicken that will brood for us, but we'd also like a bird that makes a friendly, sweet, cuddly pet (ducks and quail are just not that cuddly). Good laying ability is nice, but not critical--we get plenty of eggs from the ducks and quail, and chicken eggs don't sell well, so we're not overly concerned about it. Mothering ability is crucial, though.
Also, CUTE is excellent.
So, we've kind of narrowed it down to silkies or cochins. I'd love to hear from owners what they would recommend, and why. Which is the better mother? Does the smallness of the silkie make it hard to brood large eggs (like duck eggs)? And how many eggs can you incubate under a hen of each breed? Which breed is friendlier?
Thanks--I can't wait to hear what everyone has to say.
Edited to add: I'm also curious what everyone thinks of frizzle cochins. I think they are awesome looking and think it would be cool to have a frizzle roo but regular cochin hens. Any thoughts?
Also, CUTE is excellent.
So, we've kind of narrowed it down to silkies or cochins. I'd love to hear from owners what they would recommend, and why. Which is the better mother? Does the smallness of the silkie make it hard to brood large eggs (like duck eggs)? And how many eggs can you incubate under a hen of each breed? Which breed is friendlier?
Thanks--I can't wait to hear what everyone has to say.
Edited to add: I'm also curious what everyone thinks of frizzle cochins. I think they are awesome looking and think it would be cool to have a frizzle roo but regular cochin hens. Any thoughts?
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