What breed

[girgenti]

I've been reading about different breeds that are available for me to buy locally. I'm really intrigued by Brahma and Wyandotte. This is because they're broody, good mothers and dual purpose, eggs and meat. However I'm concerned because everybody seems to agree that they're better in cold climates than warm. In Malta, temperatures of 39C are quite common in summer. Will this be a problem?

 

[Egghead_Jr]

Curious why you wouldn't go with a Mediterranean breed?

If people are raising Wyandotte and Brahma locally I'd assume they do OK. I'd provide plenty of shade.

 

[girgenti]

Most Mediterranean breeds seem to be light birds and good flyers. That means they'll fly out of my property! Also, I wouldn't like them to roost in the olive trees as their droppings may cause contamination of the olive oil.

 

[JedJackson]

I know Brahmas are raised in Southern US states that get hot, so they might be worth trying. Personally I would go with local breeds or breeds known to do well in your areas.

 

[Egghead_Jr]

MINORCA​

Hens average 7.5 lbs, Cocks 9 lbs. 3.2 and 4.1 Kg respectively.

That's the same standard weight for Wyandotte.

 

[3KillerBs]

Brahmas can be weirdly heat-tolerant, but there's a limit. My Wyandottes don't do as well as my Australorps in 95F+ (35C+), temperatures.

Flight can be controlled by either clipping the flight feathers on one wing or by keeping the birds in a pen covered with a roof or with netting.