What is the breed for me?

[ksagaral]

Hello,

I'm looking for a broody egg layer that will be cold and heat hardy (freezing temps in winter but not below freezing, and possibilities of high 90s F or mid 100's F during the summer). I would prefer a larger bodied bird but that's not as important as the fact that I would like it to be a docile breed. Any suggestions? Thanks!

Kristen

 

[Pyxis]

! I think brahmas would work well for you. They are large bird, are very docile, and they aren't too bad as layers, usually at least three or four eggs a week. Mine are very cold hardy, and the pea comb helps a lot with frostbite. They also do well for me in the heat - we occasionally get up into the 90s here and it doesn't seem to bother them much. They are also very broody.

 

[Michael OShay]

I would recommend going with Black Auistralorps. They are extremely hardy in both cold and heat. I've raised them where winter temperatures dropped to 30 F below zero, and where summer temperatures frequently reached 117-118 F, and in both climate extremes they went about their business like troopers. They are calm and gentle (my children and granddaughter made lap pets of them), and while they are excellent layers (5-6 eggs per week), they go broody often enough to keep your flock replenished with new chicks. Whatever breed you decide to get, good luck with your flock.