A truly cool and interesting rare breed you could get into is Manx Rumpies. They are a rumpless breed from the middle east. They're very hardy, great layers and good broodies (although their fertility can be poor due to being rumpless), can allegedly live very well on just free range, have long lifespans, come in a wide range of colors, and many lay brown or colored eggs. I have two manx rumpy/barred rock mixes and they are awesome! One is rumpless, one is not. My two best layers, actually--I find one light green and one olive egg nearly every day regardless of the weather or season. There isn't a lot of information out there about them unfortunately but you can find little bits here and there. I highly recommend this breed, they are fascinating.
If I was more of a LF person I would probably breed them, but as it is I prefer to stick with bantams for the most part.
Do a lot of research first is my suggestion, and see what you fall in love with. I think when you find the breed you want to work with, you'll know it. I also recommend attending a larger poultry show if you can--it helps to see the birds in person and be able to talk to the breeders.
Do a lot of research first is my suggestion, and see what you fall in love with. I think when you find the breed you want to work with, you'll know it. I also recommend attending a larger poultry show if you can--it helps to see the birds in person and be able to talk to the breeders.
