What is a good breed combo for a beginner??

[neecy331]

Hi everyone!
I am just starting out in this venture and everything I know about chickens I've learned on this site. My question is, what would be a good breed combo to start with? I want chickens that are friendly, easy to keep and are good egg-layers.
After looking at the breed chart here, I came up with: Brahma, Delaware, Easter Eggers, Java, Leghorns, and Orpingtons. Am I way off the mark on any of these? Are any of them very expensive/rare breeds?

I am basically looking for the golden retrievers of chickens! I want to start out with 3 or 4 and would like as many different breeds so that I can see how I like the differences.

Thank you!!

Denise

 

[Urban Chaos]

Hey, welcome to the group. I dont know that much being relatively new myself, but I do know from my experience that the Brahma, and Orpingtons are good chics to have.

 

[urbanolive]

I would say for a beginner get yourself a barred rock-they are so personable and funny/curious. Easter eggers are great,too. But if I had to compare a chicken to a dog it would be the BRs , mine have always been the most pet-like.

 

[easttxchick]

I THINK the Javas are pretty rare.
I agree, though, if you want the "golden retriever" of chickens, I would go with the Barred Rocks. We love them so much we have 10.

 

[schellie69]

I love my EE's I would also say barred rocks, Buff orphingtons, I have heard that leg horns are a little flighty but that is just what I heard, I also like sex link, I would say get a few of each and see what you like.

 

[backyardmenagerie]

I, too, would vote EE, Plymouth Rocks, and Orpingtons. EEs and Orpingtons should be very easy to come by. Javas are relatively rare, and I also agree about Leghorns being somewhat flighty. See what you can find, and try getting two of each. That should give you a fairly good idea of which you like.
Keep in mind, the friendliness of your chickens will be influenced just as much, if not more, by how they are raised.

 

[Eireitalia]

I would get an EasterEgger or two, a Rhode Island Red, and a couple Orpingtons. Enjoy!

 

[Yay Chicks!]

From what I've read, you really don't want a Leghorn if you are looking for the "Golden retriever of chickens."

I think my Barred Rock is a really good bird. She's easy to handle and is a great layer. I love my Buff Orpington as well, (she's so pretty) although I'm a bit miffed at her lately. My Easter Eggers are cool and I love their green eggs. However, one is very friendly and one is skittish. My neighbors have Rhode Island Reds and they seem like really nice birds as well.

 

[Deanner03]

If you're in a colder climate...I'm partial to Dominiques. They're beautiful, dual purpose, docile, and good foragers. Ours are REALLY friendly!

 

[luvchicks8]

Buff orpingtons and EE my boys 10 and 6 LOVE the EE chickens and we normally get an egg a day from them