What do you think is best?

[Silkielove1944]

So, I'm wondering if any poultry breeds easily survive the wicked winters? I'm pretty sure, haha.
Any recommendations?

 

[sourland]

Generally any of the pea, cushion, or rose combed breeds - clean legged rather than feather legged.

 

[Klutch]

Game fowl. I have some feral's that spend the whole winter in trees. Norcal.

 

[Trevorusn]

Brahmas, Wyandottes, Faverolles, Chanteclers, and Cochins are some good cold weather go tos, as they have thick downy inner feathering, smaller combs and wattles, and good heavy bodies. My Faverolles and BLR Wyandottes will snow/ice walk without a care while my JGs, ISAs and Australorp roo chill inside their coop all day.

 

[Silkielove1944]

Really? So silkies are not always the best in those conditions?

 

[Silkielove1944]

I'll look into those other breeds you suggested.

 

[Trevorusn]

Really? So silkies are not always the best in those conditions?

Silkies have feathering that really isn't wet/wind resistant, though I do know of folks who do keep them up here and seem to do ok. Not "go play in the snow" stellar, but more "I'll survive" ok.

 

[GermanKennhuhn]

Silkies have feathering that really isn't wet/wind resistant, though I do know of folks who do keep them up here and seem to do ok. Not "go play in the snow" stellar, but more "I'll survive" ok.

Oh yeah

When it rains, they get soaked!!!

 

[Trevorusn]

Oh yeahView attachment 2025434
When it rains, they get soaked!!!

And then drying them is ridiculous!

 

[Folly's place]

Silkies and frizzled types don't manage cold or heat as well as 'normal' birds, and those cute Polish with topknots can get them wet and frozen.
Larger, fluffier, small combed birds do best.
Look up Henderson's Chicken Chart, it's very helpful too.
Mary