Which breeds to choose for small flock?

[sotelomary]

I think everyone will have a different opinion on their favorite backyard chicken. I have 5, 2 ameracauna/ee's, 1 glw, 1 slw, and 1 rir. I spent alot of time with them as chicks to socialize them. But it didn't seem to make a difference. None of them are friendly nor like to be picked up and petted. Oh well, they are beautiful birds and good layers. My rir is the smallest but the best layer of them all. I selected them based on "prettiness" and producing brown or colorful eggs. Whatever you select, I'm sure it will be right for you and you will be very happy!

Good Luck,
Mary

 

[looptloop]

I have 2 Welsummers and they are dolls! I think they fit into the middle of the pecking order, and will let me hold and pet them. Plus, they are beautiful girls!

 

[teach1rusl]

I have to say, I have a little mixed flock of five. I love the variety of their colors, body shapes, and personalities, so you might go for one of each of the breeds you most like. My little EE had become quite the cuddler since she started laying eggs. BA's are very docile and pretty too. It may just be my bird, but my gold laced wyandotte is my least friendly, although most of my friends/family think her coloring is the prettiest.

 

[sephiroth]

I like Welsummers too. They are beautiful chickens and lay a beautiful egg. I also Like Ameraucanas/EEs -- you can get them in almost any color and they lay some big colorful eggs too! If I were keeping just one breed, it'd prob be Welsummers.

I don't think you need to worry about weather-hardy birds too much in NC. They're all pretty hardy enough for that climate.