I am ordering 5 pullets of each of the following: Australorps, EE's, Dominiques, Buff Orps, Salmon Faverolles. They will be housed together in a common pen. Egg production and 'fun' only. I would like to have one rooster (maybe 2?). What would be the best breed to choose to have a rooster in? And are these breeds compatible? Do I need 2 roosters for a 25 hen flock or just one? If two should they be the same breed? The same size? Thanks for the input.
I recommend roosters of the same size, so one of them isn't at a disadvantage. However, on the subject of which breed, I'm at a total loss; I've only ever kept silkie roos
I think it's just up to personal taste, really. If you raise two roosters together, they can share twenty-five hens peacefully most likely. Of the breeds you're getting, I believe salmon faverolles are the calmest so that's one thing to take into account if you want a friendly rooster. EE roosters are often quite gorgeous, too, so that's another thing to think about. Don't worry, you likely won't have any issues with those breeds mixing together. Most breeds can share a coop peacefully, even with huge differences in size.
Thanks for the input. I know I want a Salmon Faverolles rooster because they are just plain cool looking! I just can't decided which of the others. Or course I might get a surprise rooster in my order and probably don't need to order another.
I'd say, if you were ordering 25 pullets then the decision might be made for you - no need to choose. I got an EE roo in with my order of 25 pullets..errr, 24 pullets. Meaning chicks, of course. He is a really nice rooster and does a great job watching over the girls. My neighbor's buff orp roo is huge and quite a looker. I have no experience with the other breeds as far as roos go. Your choices sound like they will make a very pretty little flock!
I got an EE roo with my order of pullets. Let me just say...he is precious. sweet, tame, handsome and already taking his "job" very seriously at 10 wks. old. wish you were closer. i can't keep him. no roos in San Antonio.
