Summer Shenanigans - VOTE NOW

[BantyChooks]

Raise production hybrids and investigate temperaments

I had RSL and BSL for a few years - the words I would use to describe them are not BYC-friendly.
I’ll add all of these ideas to the first post so I don’t lose track.

 

[Rock17]

Try bluebells. They are blue marans X RIR

 

[BantyChooks]

Try bluebells. They are blue marans X RIR

I’ll see if my local feed store has those.

 

[fluffycrow]

That would be interesting & certainly makes sense intuitively, but it’s going to be relatively cool in the area I’m staying - so I’m not sure I could provide a proper environment to test that. Still, I’ll make note of the idea.

Ah, that's understandable. This study would require quite warm temperatures to be done correctly, so you're right. At least you won't be having unbearable heat all summer!

 

[fluffycrow]

Raise production hybrids and investigate temperaments

Depends on what exactly you're investigating. Behaviour around chickens, or humans

Let's just say they're not the best with their fellow birds...

 

[wrathsfarm]

Very interesting thread and curious to see what you come up with.
I'd be super interested in seeing a rooster study also. Like some that are completely raised hands off and others raised with cuddles and hugs to see the difference in temperament/behavior outcome...

Marans in any of your decided projects would be a super bonus...

 

[notabitail]

I think you should do a rooster study. See if you can hatch one under a broody so that it will receive proper training from the mama. Hatch other chicks with it and make sure you have another coop to put him and the other chicks in once Mama Hen abandons them. I'd like to know how it would go with a small hatch of five eggs or something like that, since I've heard that's a more natural number for them.

 

[FamilyOfSeven]

Raise barred rocks! They are a great duel purpose breed.
Or raise bearded duccle bantams!

 

[ShrekDawg]

Raise barred rocks! They are a great duel purpose breed.

I loved my Barred Rocks!

 

[Debbie292d]

@Debbie292d @2ndTink @Kiki @muddy75
In case any of you are interested.

What about Swedish Flower Hens? That's what @2ndTink started raising after Marek's hit some of her silkies, as those are naturally resistant to Marek's.

How about a project that involves cross-breeding of hardy, disease-resistant breeds?