what do you consider the ultimate free range breed

[MistyMountain]

And why?

 

[KeriT]

And why?

For meat? Eggs? Or DP?

 

[MistyMountain]

Oops, I added that as an edit but I guess it didn't take.

Dual purpose, but good egg layer. Heritage breed is a major plus.

 

[KeriT]

Oops, I added that as an edit but I guess it didn't take.

Dual purpose, but good egg layer. Heritage breed is a major plus.

I personally like the Barred Rocks as a DP. They are cold hearty, very healthy, great foragers, great layers, great mothers, great temperament, one of the largest carcass weights of DP breeds, and of course beautiful to look at

 

[MistyMountain]

I personally like the Barred Rocks as a DP. They are cold hearty, very healthy, great foragers, great layers, great mothers, great temperament, one of the largest carcass weights of DP breeds, and of course beautiful to look at

I really appreciate your input. I have done my research on a number of breeds (I am turning my focus from colorful flock of many breeds to a single heritage dp breed with a couple oddballs for fun). I was focused on the german line of NH, but have since been introduced to the world of the BR. My oh my, are they lovely when you find quality birds with clean lines. I would like to test the idea that the hawks struggle finding them because of the barring camouflage. My main predator out here is hawks.


I suppose I should start searching for NPIP breeders! I have a couple broody-prone ladies, and although we are currently getting 10+ inches of snow, spring is right around the corner…. right?