Which breed(s) should we get?

[draye]

If your not picky and not wanting to raise/hatch out your own tyoe I would suggest you get a layer pack that is offered ny many of the hatcheries. If you're wanting specific breeds, then you may want to try the White Plymouth Rocks, I have some that my son wanted so we got some and they are really wonderful chickens, they are laying a large size egg. We also have the Easter Egger chicken they are fairly good layers, we'll see how good come spring time.
Good luck in finding what you are looking for.

 

[mae.wes]

Thanks, everyone, for your help!

I think we've decided to try a mix of an Australorp, a Buff Orp, a Sussex, and an Easter Egger.

 

[ginormous chicken]

The breeds you chose are all really good laying breeds. Of the ones you listed, I only have EEs. I do like Orpingtons though. They are calm and gentle, but they do get big. I love the color of Barred Rocks, they remind me of Dominickers. I have a friend who has a chicken ranch (commerical) he only does Australorps. He swears that they are the greatest dual birds. I would get a mix personally and see what you like.

Good luck!

_____________________________________________________
I lost a chicken, but now it is found!

 

[Judy]

mae.wes :

I think we've decided to try a mix of an Australorp, a Buff Orp, a Sussex, and an Easter Egger.

Good mix -- of course I chose the same. I chose EE for blue eggs for the grandkids; would not buy again as the eggs are medium size and the birds are standoffish. Friendliest is the Sussex, but the Australorps and Buff Orps have been mellow and easy to handle, as well as the most consistent layers.

Good luck.​

 

[dirtsaver]

mae.wes :

Thanks, everyone, for your help!

I think we've decided to try a mix of an Australorp, a Buff Orp, a Sussex, and an Easter Egger.

We have Australorps and Buff Orpingtons along with Silver Laced Wyandottes and Welsumers. Of then all,the Australorps are the best layers and the best personality. They follow us around when we work outside and talk to us all the time. The Buff Orps are good but they don't lay much in the winter and are a bit less tolerant of the other girls. I will not have any more of the SLWs, they are just not that friendly. Our three Welsumers were picked up almost grown in the fall and still have not started laying. Two of them are getting along but the other one is a "drama queen" and will find a new home soon,along with the SLWs.

I do want to try the Sussex this spring but otherwise I'll stick with my Aussies. They are the best! And they have done well in last summers heat and this years cold.

Larry​