One of my sweetest hens is my easter egger. She can get picked on, but she never cowers and doesn't seem to care. She's like a person who is always positive and doesn't let other people get under their skin. She's also the smartest.
I've been wanting to add an olive eager to my clan of rescued chickens. We have an Isa an australorp cross maran, a maran, and a Plymouth rock, and they all get along. The Isa cries at the drop of a hat, her beak was de beaked, and the horror lives on in her and the others I have no idea what they have been through but they seem to be doing well. We get some eggs surprisingly, but they go to the chickens as I only want compost for my market garden which they do most of the work. We have a good deal going.
@jojozepofthejungle2655 aw thank you for rescuing your hens. Maybe someday I'll be able to do the same. Somehow, one of my hens went blind and it makes me so sad. She's doing well, but I'm such an empath that it's hard for me to see the positive instead of the sadness. I love these hens so much. 💛 Your poor little hen to lose her beak.
Our easter eggers have been the friendliest and we have many on this list! They are the most likely to come right to us, follow us around, and even cuddle. We had one that we said was like a dog in how friendly and interactive she was with us.
Love my Easter Eggers. I have a pair. From the beginning, it was yak-yak-yak. They talked all day, went everywhere, together, all day. Played all day. I call them the 'Magpies'. Heckle and Jeckle. You see one, the other is close by...yak-yak-yak.
Dont know why you included Rhode Island Reds in the docile chicken video. I had 2 hens that were terrors to other hens. Several chicken keepers around me have said they are an aggressive breed and would NOT keep any other breeds with them as they are usually the bullies in a mixed flock. There are exceptions, however, but most people I know who have had them either have to keep the RIR flock to itself and start a new mixed flock or have had to get rid of the RIRs to have other breeds of hens due to the RIRs being aggressive bullies.
I had two RIRs and they were the only hens that would let me pick them up. They were so sweet and got along with the rest of their mixed flock. I just added 2 more RIR chicks to the mix, I hope they turn out to be just as friendly.
Chicken newbies also should consider the climate they live in. Heavily feathered birds are better in colder climates, while less feathers with larger combs is good in the tropics. Our flock is Barred Rocks, Wyandottes, Rhodesia Island Reds, New Hampshires, Speckled Sussex and a bantam leghorn. We keep new chicks in a separate secure area until they are older and can forage for themselves. We hold our chickens, especially roosters. We separate for a couple months, letting the flocks see and smell each other. Good video.
@@jillolds4162 they’re doing fine down here in the tropics. And also consider which breeds are better confined or foraging free range. It’s a lot to take into consideration but worth it when it all comes together.
@@Bittagrit ah, you make some great points about researching each breed! My hens free-range with some supplements including available comm’l feed. They know exactly where all my berry bushes are 🤣🤣. I’m amazed at some of the critters hens catch and eat when foraging…..snakes, frogs, voles, etc.
I got some Wyandottes, Barred Rock, Cuckoo Marans, and Leghorns. I think the Wyandottes are nuts. Always posturing at the other chickens and fluffing their feathers like a mad dog. The leghorns act like the road runner. 13 weeks and I finally caught them for inspection. I’ve held them since they were a day old but once they reached pullet stage, they became as nasty as a teenager! But, at night, they all snuggle up like puppies.
Delightful video! I have 5 hens (3 breeds) that are free-ranging on my 1/2 acre. I got them at 2 days of age and they bonded quickly to me as well as to my dog. These hens are like puppies! They follow me around, come when they’re called and knock on my back door for treats. I’ve got 4 more young hens I’m about to integrate into the flick. Hens are amusing additions to your life! Thanks for some great tips. I’d add 1 lil tidbit to anyone considering chickens …. Those adorable sounds they make, constantly, are just so darn relaxing to the human ear!
My Rosie My RIR Walks Right Into My Door I Leave It Opened For Her She’s The Absolute Sweetest She’s Named After My Niece Rosie And Her Sister Is Named After My Niece Mia 🙏🏽❤️🥰
Thanks for the video. We did our research on friendliest birds that do well together. So far they are getting along really well but only 5 weeks old. We have had them since day 3 of life. We have Brahmas, Jersey Giants, Cochins, Marans, a Swedish Flower, Orpingtons, Olive eggers, Salmon Favorelles, Sussex, Polish, and an Australorp. All are very beautiful friendly and already bringing so much joy to our lives!
great list, we got two swedish flowers and they're definitely the sassiest of the bunch so far hahaha. I think if you raise chickens in a stress free environment with good interaction they will usually be friendly.
Super helpful, thank you! Loved the pics of the chickens too. Thank you for NO MUSIC!! Note: Most of the breeds you showed are cold weather birds, like the Buff Orpington. People should select for their weather first, then temperament so they rule out chickens who won't do well where they live. My favorite colors for hens are: Barnevelder, Welsummer, Leghorns, Barred Rock, Wyandotte, Copper Marans, Australorps. My favorite rooster colors are: Welsummer, Golden Cuckoo Duckwing Leghorns, Sussex, Black Croad Langhan. So hard to pick one or two roosters from this list. I'd like to have all of them. Such beauties!!!
I agree with you on most of these, but I have found the Rhode Island Reds---even the females can be bullies to other breeds. The RIR roosters can be aggressive to humans. I had the same problem with New Hampshire Reds. I have always had good luck with Ameraucanas and Easter Eggers---and they tend to be smarter than the average chicken too. They like to be cuddled.
I have 2 Ameraucanas- they stole my heart! Cute, friendly and curious. Eager to jump up on my deck chair to ask for treats. One is more animated and ready to run around exploring. The other is more timid and likely to be pecked by the others. Both of them stay right at my heels as I move thru my gardens. Good egg layers too! 👍🏻
I have 2 Wyandottes and 2 Jersey Giants that are young, along with a mixed, gentle rooster and 2 RIR's that are about 5 years old. I will never have RIR's again; one has been such a bully I have to keep her separate ☹️.
The Plymouth rock is my favourite chicken. Ive had one since she was only 6 weeks old and this chicken would stand her ground in the face of danger to let her sisters escape.
Currently, our only rooster in a mixed flock is a Plymouth Barred Rock. He is gentle to the hens, easy to handle, but also sturdy and strong. He protected the hens from another rooster that was not as smart or gentle. His offspring with other breeds all seem to be similarly sturdy, healthy, and mild-tempered.
@user-mi4du9rd1j They have better eggs, too. The yoke to white ratio is just right. The Isa brown has too much white in her eggs. I would love a rooster like your rooster, but we aren't allowed to have them in the outer suburbs.
Bielefielder chickens should 100% be on this list. I have bielefielders and they really bring the flock together. They actually prefer people over other chickens. They are quite unique birds. I've raised my rooster Bean-Bean since he was just an egg. He absolutely loves me and his girls. He is definitely a chicken pimp if I've ever seen one 😂. He also protects the girls from predators.
We have a mixed flock with some mentioned here and some random backyard mutts. Our sapphire gems are particularly sweet. I also have a cream legbar rooster who is sweet and friendly. We've found that the biggest help for a happy flock is adequate space. With 19 chickens, we have a 1200 sqft run with trees and shrubs for shade and quiet time, a huge coop with multiple roosts at the same height, and they get time to roam our acre property several times a week.
We always had Rhode Island reds and they were such great chickens. We had two roosters I think one came with the flock when we got them. He was so sweet. The younger one would flog you every time you went into the run or coop.
My barred rocks are the meanest birds in my flock, with the Australorp being a close second. My rhode island red hens are bullies, but my roo is an absolute sweetheart.
Dont forget the buckeyes they are great and get along with lots of other birds iv got buckeyes black australorps Plymouth barred rocks and Easter eggers altogether
I second that!! I would love to know more about these roosters: Welsummer, Golden Cuckoo Duckwing Leghorns, Sussex, Black Croad Langhan, Black Copper Marans. Such magnificent birds! Can I keep at least two different breed roosters from this list? How many hens each do I need to have minimum? Do you have to separate the boys if yard is large?
@@mjremy2605 We have a Welsummer rooster, and he's a character! He protects the flock, and he eats from our hands. He lets me pet him. He happily greets us and follows us around. He just loves attention.
I have 2 Rhode island however one ended up as a rooster, we have 2 barred rock, one olive egger, and one Americana. I love them all and even our rooster. The Americana is getting to be a problem in staying in their run. We got our first egg from one of the barred rock yesterday. They were all chicks when we got them.
My Cochin rooster was a magnificent mean bastard, he had to go as he was attacking everyone. I'm surprised Pekin Bantams were not listed they make great additions to a flock, RIR are normally seen as a rather aggressive breed.
The loveliest cockerel I ever had was a red/Brown araucana. He was soo sweet and gentle with the hens, always finding grubs and worms and then clucking for the hens to come over so he could gift them the treat. Always put himself between the hen and any perceived danger, but was never aggressive. And would even break up fights between his hens. I also had a pair of lavender araucana hens Astar the same time, and while never friendly with me they were always chill and never got into trouble with anyone. From my experience a very lovely breed. But the worst I ever had were black rocks. Ranged from careless brutes to vindictive bullies to just straight up stupid. Would avoid them at all costs
I bought 10 different baby chicks hoping for all girls. Three of them were boys. I was able to trade two of my boys for two other chickens but sadly one of them turned out to be a boy. So now I have two boys and eight girls. I separated them into two flocks once the roosters were old enough to start picking on each other. You don't always know if you're getting girls or boys when you start with chicks but I still say it's better to start with chicks!
You can obtain sexed chicks between 5-12 weeks old, depending on the breed. I have gotten a few between these ages, and they bond with you very readily. ie, you don't have to start with new hatchlings that have not been sexed.
2 roosters are good in my opinion in case one gets killed or dies for whatever reason. I woulda let the extra roos free range then ate them myself lol.
i buy from a nursery that offers sexed chicks. they're about 85% accurate so not bad. they also guarantee if you get more than 2 roosters in a batch of females ordered they will refund you. but i've not had a problem. i ordered 16 hens last spring and got one roo, but i'm happy to keep him as i didn't have a roo. so far he's a good roo and the girls like him, even the older girls that weren't raised with him. he's a plymouth barred rock and gorgeous!
Thank you for mentioning them. I have two and they are the sweetest, not aggressive at all. I find hardly no one mentions them. Big beautiful brown eggs too. 😊
I had an awesome clutch of Aracuna, Golden lace Wyandottes, and Jungle fowl rooster. Beautiful, productive and give them a guard goose!!! Seriously you want to keep the raptors away? Goose. :)
@@aprilblair6149 Ganders are very protective of their flock and I kept about 4 geese and 1 gander in a 20x20 fenced area with a 6 silver appleyard ducks and a mixed flock of about 12 hens (2 roosters). The gander (male) will take on anything that approaches day or night. It won't always win - we lost one to a large wild dog but hawks will avoid them.
My australorp hen is the most scared of the old flock... And my 2 new baby chicks seem to be the same way (spending a lot of time handfeeding them all, even with dried insects that is)
I've been raising chickens since the late 70's here in CT, I really like the Plymouth barred rocks as they are super docile and pretty quiet birds as well. They lay 200-250 eggs a year on average and are just sweet friendly birds. If you want the best laying hens, then ISA browns are by far the best layers ever and pretty docile as well. One of the flightiest high-strung birds are the white leghorns, they are superb layers of white eggs, but you need to keep them occupied as they are restless and love to just be in the yard scratching and looking for insects all day long.
We have Jersey Giants. They are calm for the most part unless startled. Our rooster only tried to peck at me once and the hens got after him. Haven't had any issues since.
That you. Very informative. I am working on raising chickens for the first time. We had chickens growing up but I was rather young at the time and didn't fully understand what it all involved.
Great tips. Thanks so miuch for sharing. I was wondering. I started with 2 chicken. I add another one and things were great. Then, I ended up losing 2 of those chicken. I only have 1 left, and I was looking for a way to add more without causing a lot of friction.
Barred Rock...Our 3 wouldn't make this list if you met them. LOL!!! Loud, (one likes to "gossip about the neighbors") one bullies the cat and Pit Bull, the other follows which ever sister she chooses at that time. Don't like pets, but when they free range, all I have to do is let them see me and holler... CHICKENS!!!! and they come running. Daily entertainment and eggs...WIN WIN!!! Great birds..still laying strong at 5 yrs old.
Thank you very much for pisting this video. I have just aquired a coup and seven chickens. This is very informative so I have subscribed to be a part of your community.
Wife and I are starting out, and we live in an urban area, and our city allows backyard chicken, not rooster, and that's OK with us. We are looking at a store bought coop and run that can hold up to 4, but we only want 2 for now. We are thinking of the Rhode Island and the Plymouth Rock given the heat here in South Florida. With just those 2 is that a good start for newbies? We do want egg producers. Would appreciate an help and or comment. Thanks
very unfortunate that my orpington was not what this video claimed they would be,, she was an extreme bully to my rhode island n since we just got her along w other chicks, we decided to just simply exchange her for a different breed rather than try to sort it out, quarantine, etc. She was very sweet when being held though and more friendly towards humans but to the flock she was a mean one. The store manager was also surprised when we returned her but I guess they can't all be friendly lol
My sister is having the same problem with her orpingtons. She got 6 rainbow dixies, and they were so sweet even though they were twice the size of the other chickens, but they all ended up being roos. She is going to try again and hope for some females. Her aggressive roo, we think he is a welsummer cross, was scared of them when they were introduced to the flock because of their size
You gave a lot of information. Can you slow down a little? I agree with most everything you said. Yes! about the Rhode Island Red breed. They can be mean! I combined some from a farmer who dropped them off, after we had separated them of course, but they are still mean and domineering to my barred rocks and other chickens. The previous generation raised a lot of Rhode Island red chickens, but now there are so many other breeds we can get. Thank you for the video. If you could slow down a little that would be good. I did change the speed on the playback, but then it was too slow.
Do you think buff Orpington’s,Americauna’s,leghorns,ones that kind of look like Cochins,and two that look like either Plymouth rocks or barred rocks with a Americauna rooster is a good mix and two that are a mixed breed of Amaricauna and leghorn
My beginning flock was composed of 8 hens, 2 each of white leghorns, Rhode Island reds, barred rocks, and lavender orpingtons. We have lost 3 of those (one each leghorn, RIR, barred rock) over the last 3 years. They were raised together from the beginning and get along well, though the RIRs are definitely the head hens and least pleasant to be around. I’ve had to correct them a few times for being a bit aggressive toward me! But overall I have enjoyed my flock and they are all great egg layers! We are getting Black Star chicks next week to start refreshing the flock. 🤍
It's also so much a problem of individual personality. I had chicken that were not a problem, just nice , and some other of the same breed are a pain in the neck or some of same breed are super friendly and others just aloof lol. But when I do have problematic individual chickens who pick on others constantly hit them or don't let them eat, I make them soup. I love a calm, friendly flock where everyone has a peaceful happy life.
Hello, was wondering if you ever had a flock that just wants to stay in coop? I have 6 (1 mo old) Australourps and for some reason they live to stay indoors. I actually have to pick them up and put them outside on perch etc in the run. Thoughts? Oh, btw - I’ve taken mealworms, other food items where they eat out of hands to help coax them out - but no luck ?? Ideas ??
I'm having the same issue with my 8 week old Sapphire Gems. They are sweet, affectionate and seem to listen and follow me, but they won't go outside unless I pick them up and carry them!
@@milliemrrobinson1074 it’s common for certain breeds to be less “adventurous” than others. Perhaps there is an external factor that is causing them to not leave the coop. For instance, if you have other animals around, this may cause your chickens, especially young ones, to not want to leave the safety of their coop. We slowly integrated our girls to the outdoors by letting them play in a run outdoors so they got used to the sounds and smells of the great outdoors. Once they were comfortable being outside, they would run right out whenever the door opened.
@@milliemrrobinson1074 I promise, that will definitely help! Just make sure they aren’t in direct sunlight, and that food and water are still available. If it’s possible, place the run in an area with grass/weeds so that they grasp the idea of snacking on these healthy food options. I have personally never had a Sapphire Gem, but I’ve had an Orpington, Leghorn, Brahmas, Jersey Giant, Silkies, Barred Rock, Rhode Island Red, Ameraucanas, Mystic Maran and a Wyandotte, and this method has had success with all of them.
We've had wonderful experiences with our Turkens. The ones with no feathering are double gene better breed standard but the single gene bow-tie neck variation is still a wonderful bird. Large brown eggs right one at 6 months daily. They follow me around like puppies. The roosters are protective but haven't attacked us. Always be cautious. My Cream Legbars do well in the heat too, pretty blue eggs BUT all 3 roosters are @sses.
“Plymouth Rock” is the chicken breed. They come in variations based on coloring. “Barred” coloring is stripes like on the Barred Owl or, in the case of this chicken breed, is the black and white striping. There are other colors of Plymouth Rocks like white, black and others. So a “Barred Plymouth Rock” or “White Plymouth Rock” etc… is a description based on combining the coloring and the breed
Thanks for asking that question. I wondered the same thing since when discussing the Plymouth Rock, the chicken shown in the video looked to me exactly like the Barred Rock.
You did not mention the New Hampshire breed? Are they good with other breeds or should I keep them separate? I learned about them and others on my list from a Hobby Farm magazine that my roommate gets and gives me once done with them…
Currently I have 2 white leghorns, and 2 rhode island reds (all hens) that I've raised since they were babies. So far they all get along fine, the only exception being that Karen, the largest hen, somewhat bullies the others and gets snippy with people. However not to an extent where there's been any injuries. The most she's ever done is shoo away the other hens if she wants to eat or drink alone, and she'll peck at feet if you're wearing open-toed shoes.
Here in Costa Rica there aren't many options in terms of breeds. So I started with some chickens from one of my neighbours. They were great for brooding their own eggs and pretty much care free. But they were small and erratic in their egg laying. And the roosters were constantly fighting. I'd sell the resulting offspring when I had more than a couple dozen, getting an occasional new hen to bring in new blood. I kept the roosters that were most chill and got rid of the trouble makers (including the occasional hen with behavioral traits I didn't like) and over the last 15 years or so I've got myself a pretty chill group of chickens always keeping 2 roosters that get into the occasional squabble but they live pretty much in peace with each other. My only problem is I've bred that good brooding instinct out of them as well, so I have to keep a couple "criollo" hens to brood eggs for me. But you can actually make some pretty substantial changes to chickens behavior over several generations just by only letting the ones who's behavior you like send their genetics forward.
We had a few Cochin roosters. One of them was real mean. He would get behind you and those spurs came out on the back of your legs. I used to walk around with a trash can lid to cover my legs to protect them….lol.
Orpington and barred rock roosters can be very calm. You have to handle them a bunch but mine have treated small kids very well. An aggressive rooster has NO place on the hobbiest's yard. 10-12 months is a long time to raise a stew bird. So spend time trying to handle the rooster before he comes into his breeding age.
My friend had a Black Star (sex link) female that was very curious and a good layer. Not sure if they can be handled unless you raise them from chicks.
Avoid breeds described as 'very alert', 'active', 'flighty', etc. As others have mentioned, some of the Rhode Island Reds can actually be aggressive/bossy.
Trying to find a breed of chicken that does well here in North Carolina and is easy to take care of but that the rooster doesn't crow too loudly so it doesn't disturb my neighbor. Plymouth rock and barred rock so far seem to be the best bet, any help would be appreciated
I have always raised Rhode Island Red's, from Texas to Arizona, Missouri, Montana and now Florida. Awesome dual purpose bird, hens usually friendly and prolific egg layers. Roosters, however, CAN be aggressive so we always monitor several young roosters to pick the most friendly ones for keeping. The more aggressive we seperate, raise to full size, then fire up the offset smoker. That being said, our hens have always been like playful little kids who love human interaction, including children.
I got my first batch of 4 pullets, and I thought that the coop was secure until a fox found a small gap under the egg box and some how bit a hole through it, all of them died, two were taken away and 2 were left with their heads ripped off
I know nothing about chickens so please excuse my question. Why would you want a mixed flock as opposed to picking a breed with the characteristics you want and raise a flock of them?
Depends on what you want a flock for. I’ve got many different breeds together because I like all the different egg colors. But if you want to raise and sell a certain breed, you’d pick one breed and work on improving them.
My wyandotte was named "Karen" for a reason. She was such a bully to my other girls. We lost her last year and the sad reality is, the rest of my flock has been so much more harmonious and chill without her, and nobody is missing feathers anymore. My Easter egger is extremely sweet. She's the flock mom who looks out for all the others.
I had a flock of four chickens, 2 wyandottes, 1 easter egger and 1 australorp. The 2 wyandottes were the most evil chickens on the face of the planet. They hated (and bullied) the other two chickens, who were sweet and docile. I swore i would NEVER own wyandottes ever agaib!
One of my sweetest hens is my easter egger. She can get picked on, but she never cowers and doesn't seem to care. She's like a person who is always positive and doesn't let other people get under their skin. She's also the smartest.
I have a buff orpington and barred Rock like that
I've been wanting to add an olive eager to my clan of rescued chickens. We have an Isa an australorp cross maran, a maran, and a Plymouth rock, and they all get along. The Isa cries at the drop of a hat, her beak was de beaked, and the horror lives on in her and the others I have no idea what they have been through but they seem to be doing well. We get some eggs surprisingly, but they go to the chickens as I only want compost for my market garden which they do most of the work. We have a good deal going.
@jojozepofthejungle2655 aw thank you for rescuing your hens. Maybe someday I'll be able to do the same. Somehow, one of my hens went blind and it makes me so sad. She's doing well, but I'm such an empath that it's hard for me to see the positive instead of the sadness. I love these hens so much. 💛 Your poor little hen to lose her beak.
Our easter eggers have been the friendliest and we have many on this list! They are the most likely to come right to us, follow us around, and even cuddle. We had one that we said was like a dog in how friendly and interactive she was with us.
Love my Easter Eggers. I have a pair. From the beginning, it was yak-yak-yak. They talked all day, went everywhere, together, all day. Played all day. I call them the 'Magpies'. Heckle and Jeckle. You see one, the other is close by...yak-yak-yak.
Dont know why you included Rhode Island Reds in the docile chicken video. I had 2 hens that were terrors to other hens. Several chicken keepers around me have said they are an aggressive breed and would NOT keep any other breeds with them as they are usually the bullies in a mixed flock. There are exceptions, however, but most people I know who have had them either have to keep the RIR flock to itself and start a new mixed flock or have had to get rid of the RIRs to have other breeds of hens due to the RIRs being aggressive bullies.
I have heard the RIR can be a bit aggressive, so I avoided getting one.
I had two RIRs and they were the only hens that would let me pick them up. They were so sweet and got along with the rest of their mixed flock. I just added 2 more RIR chicks to the mix, I hope they turn out to be just as friendly.
My sister's reds are the docile ones, and her orpingtons are the bullies. I guess it may depend on the breeder.
They are the best bird ever...
I have been very lucky with RIR’s awesome ones I have had over the years.
Chicken newbies also should consider the climate they live in. Heavily feathered birds are better in colder climates, while less feathers with larger combs is good in the tropics. Our flock is Barred Rocks, Wyandottes, Rhodesia Island Reds, New Hampshires, Speckled Sussex and a bantam leghorn.
We keep new chicks in a separate secure area until they are older and can forage for themselves. We hold our chickens, especially roosters. We separate for a couple months, letting the flocks see and smell each other.
Good video.
Agreed. Speckled Sussex are not cold hardy,
@@jillolds4162 they’re doing fine down here in the tropics. And also consider which breeds are better confined or foraging free range. It’s a lot to take into consideration but worth it when it all comes together.
@@Bittagrit ah, you make some great points about researching each breed! My hens free-range with some supplements including available comm’l feed. They know exactly where all my berry bushes are 🤣🤣. I’m amazed at some of the critters hens catch and eat when foraging…..snakes, frogs, voles, etc.
I got some Wyandottes, Barred Rock, Cuckoo Marans, and Leghorns. I think the Wyandottes are nuts. Always posturing at the other chickens and fluffing their feathers like a mad dog. The leghorns act like the road runner. 13 weeks and I finally caught them for inspection. I’ve held them since they were a day old but once they reached pullet stage, they became as nasty as a teenager! But, at night, they all snuggle up like puppies.
🤣🤣 I thoroughly enjoyed this tale! @@lrg613
Delightful video! I have 5 hens (3 breeds) that are free-ranging on my 1/2 acre. I got them at 2 days of age and they bonded quickly to me as well as to my dog. These hens are like puppies! They follow me around, come when they’re called and knock on my back door for treats. I’ve got 4 more young hens I’m about to integrate into the flick. Hens are amusing additions to your life! Thanks for some great tips. I’d add 1 lil tidbit to anyone considering chickens …. Those adorable sounds they make, constantly, are just so darn relaxing to the human ear!
My Rosie My RIR Walks Right Into My Door I Leave It Opened For Her She’s The Absolute Sweetest She’s Named After My Niece Rosie And Her Sister Is Named After My Niece Mia 🙏🏽❤️🥰
Thanks for the video. We did our research on friendliest birds that do well together. So far they are getting along really well but only 5 weeks old. We have had them since day 3 of life. We have Brahmas, Jersey Giants, Cochins, Marans, a Swedish Flower, Orpingtons, Olive eggers, Salmon Favorelles, Sussex, Polish, and an Australorp. All are very beautiful friendly and already bringing so much joy to our lives!
great list, we got two swedish flowers and they're definitely the sassiest of the bunch so far hahaha. I think if you raise chickens in a stress free environment with good interaction they will usually be friendly.
how’s it going ? i just bought Brahma chickens, 15 females and 1 male and i am
getting mixed messages online. thank you in advance
Super helpful, thank you! Loved the pics of the chickens too. Thank you for NO MUSIC!!
Note: Most of the breeds you showed are cold weather birds, like the Buff Orpington. People should select for their weather first, then temperament so they rule out chickens who won't do well where they live.
My favorite colors for hens are: Barnevelder, Welsummer, Leghorns, Barred Rock, Wyandotte, Copper Marans, Australorps.
My favorite rooster colors are: Welsummer, Golden Cuckoo Duckwing Leghorns, Sussex, Black Croad Langhan.
So hard to pick one or two roosters from this list. I'd like to have all of them. Such beauties!!!
I agree with you on most of these, but I have found the Rhode Island Reds---even the females can be bullies to other breeds. The RIR roosters can be aggressive to humans. I had the same problem with New Hampshire Reds. I have always had good luck with Ameraucanas and Easter Eggers---and they tend to be smarter than the average chicken too. They like to be cuddled.
I have 2 Ameraucanas- they stole my heart! Cute, friendly and curious. Eager to jump up on my deck chair to ask for treats. One is more animated and ready to run around exploring. The other is more timid and likely to be pecked by the others. Both of them stay right at my heels as I move thru my gardens. Good egg layers too! 👍🏻
I have 2 Wyandottes and 2 Jersey Giants that are young, along with a mixed, gentle rooster and 2 RIR's that are about 5 years old. I will never have RIR's again; one has been such a bully I have to keep her separate ☹️.
Every RIR rooster we've had have has been really mean.
my Golden Comets are the sweetest hens Ive ever owned.
The Plymouth rock is my favourite chicken. Ive had one since she was only 6 weeks old and this chicken would stand her ground in the face of danger to let her sisters escape.
Currently, our only rooster in a mixed flock is a Plymouth Barred Rock. He is gentle to the hens, easy to handle, but also sturdy and strong. He protected the hens from another rooster that was not as smart or gentle. His offspring with other breeds all seem to be similarly sturdy, healthy, and mild-tempered.
@user-mi4du9rd1j They have better eggs, too. The yoke to white ratio is just right. The Isa brown has too much white in her eggs. I would love a rooster like your rooster, but we aren't allowed to have them in the outer suburbs.
Plymouth planet
I love my rocks I call them huginn and muninn and they great and I absolutely love them
My Rhode Island, Easter eggers, and buffs get along great!
Bielefielder chickens should 100% be on this list. I have bielefielders and they really bring the flock together. They actually prefer people over other chickens. They are quite unique birds. I've raised my rooster Bean-Bean since he was just an egg. He absolutely loves me and his girls. He is definitely a chicken pimp if I've ever seen one 😂. He also protects the girls from predators.
I have amrocks. Hard to find barred rocks in my country, but amrock are quite popular.
They are also friendly.
I've had chickens for about nine years now. I love having a mixed flock.
We have a mixed flock with some mentioned here and some random backyard mutts. Our sapphire gems are particularly sweet. I also have a cream legbar rooster who is sweet and friendly. We've found that the biggest help for a happy flock is adequate space. With 19 chickens, we have a 1200 sqft run with trees and shrubs for shade and quiet time, a huge coop with multiple roosts at the same height, and they get time to roam our acre property several times a week.
I bet you don't have a single bug in your entire property! So nice.
What is a barnyard mutt?
We always had Rhode Island reds and they were such great chickens. We had two roosters I think one came with the flock when we got them. He was so sweet. The younger one would flog you every time you went into the run or coop.
My barred rocks are the meanest birds in my flock, with the Australorp being a close second. My rhode island red hens are bullies, but my roo is an absolute sweetheart.
It is probably because he is a sweet boy that the hens are henpecking him! 😂
very rare to see mean barred rocks
Wow. Mine usually nice
Dont forget the buckeyes they are great and get along with lots of other birds iv got buckeyes black australorps Plymouth barred rocks and Easter eggers altogether
My speckled Sussex are absolutely sweet as they can be! They follow me around like a dog.
Mine also! Super friendly and the only ones that will eat out of my hand, despite all being raised the same.
Would it be possible to have a video like this but strictly for roosters? Or maybe a video of some the statistically friendliest rooster breeds?
I second that!! I would love to know more about these roosters: Welsummer, Golden Cuckoo Duckwing Leghorns, Sussex, Black Croad Langhan, Black Copper Marans. Such magnificent birds! Can I keep at least two different breed roosters from this list? How many hens each do I need to have minimum? Do you have to separate the boys if yard is large?
@@mjremy2605 We have a Welsummer rooster, and he's a character! He protects the flock, and he eats from our hands. He lets me pet him. He happily greets us and follows us around. He just loves attention.
I have 2 Rhode island however one ended up as a rooster, we have 2 barred rock, one olive egger, and one Americana. I love them all and even our rooster. The Americana is getting to be a problem in staying in their run. We got our first egg from one of the barred rock yesterday. They were all chicks when we got them.
Thankyou .love the pictures .not a owner just love chickens wish I could but not the time .
Thankyou for this lesson on chicken s.
I would add Baranvelders. Easy going low key and heavy layers of brown eggs. Good foragers,
Medium sized, lay thru the winter
My Cochin rooster was a magnificent mean bastard, he had to go as he was attacking everyone. I'm surprised Pekin Bantams were not listed they make great additions to a flock, RIR are normally seen as a rather aggressive breed.
You had me until Rhode Island Reds - Even though I often hear how docile they are, I have had several and only had one that was pleasant.
I've had roughly 20 RI Reds. Only one was aggressive towards two of my ducks.
The loveliest cockerel I ever had was a red/Brown araucana. He was soo sweet and gentle with the hens, always finding grubs and worms and then clucking for the hens to come over so he could gift them the treat. Always put himself between the hen and any perceived danger, but was never aggressive. And would even break up fights between his hens. I also had a pair of lavender araucana hens Astar the same time, and while never friendly with me they were always chill and never got into trouble with anyone. From my experience a very lovely breed.
But the worst I ever had were black rocks. Ranged from careless brutes to vindictive bullies to just straight up stupid. Would avoid them at all costs
i also have a sweet chicken her name is cornie and she also doe not care if picked on
I bought 10 different baby chicks hoping for all girls. Three of them were boys. I was able to trade two of my boys for two other chickens but sadly one of them turned out to be a boy. So now I have two boys and eight girls. I separated them into two flocks once the roosters were old enough to start picking on each other. You don't always know if you're getting girls or boys when you start with chicks but I still say it's better to start with chicks!
You can obtain sexed chicks between 5-12 weeks old, depending on the breed. I have gotten a few between these ages, and they bond with you very readily. ie, you don't have to start with new hatchlings that have not been sexed.
2 roosters are good in my opinion in case one gets killed or dies for whatever reason. I woulda let the extra roos free range then ate them myself lol.
Only if you have enough hens to support two chickens. I only have six hens. So I need more girls if I'm going to keep both boys
Ya sounds like fun
i buy from a nursery that offers sexed chicks. they're about 85% accurate so not bad. they also guarantee if you get more than 2 roosters in a batch of females ordered they will refund you. but i've not had a problem. i ordered 16 hens last spring and got one roo, but i'm happy to keep him as i didn't have a roo. so far he's a good roo and the girls like him, even the older girls that weren't raised with him. he's a plymouth barred rock and gorgeous!
Road Island Reds, and Bared Rocks were my first chickens, and they are all very sweet! I now have 6 different breads, and they do just fine.
Still waiting for a video on Bielefelders. They would have been in this group of 15 breeds.
I agree I have four they are super sweet
Thank you for mentioning them. I have two and they are the sweetest, not aggressive at all. I find hardly no one mentions them. Big beautiful brown eggs too. 😊
I had an awesome clutch of Aracuna, Golden lace Wyandottes, and Jungle fowl rooster. Beautiful, productive and give them a guard goose!!! Seriously you want to keep the raptors away? Goose. :)
Interesting! Does it matter if it's a female or male goose?
@@aprilblair6149 Ganders are very protective of their flock and I kept about 4 geese and 1 gander in a 20x20 fenced area with a 6 silver appleyard ducks and a mixed flock of about 12 hens (2 roosters). The gander (male) will take on anything that approaches day or night. It won't always win - we lost one to a large wild dog but hawks will avoid them.
I have 3 roosters and it took some time and effort but they finally get along and no longer fight
My australorp hen is the most scared of the old flock... And my 2 new baby chicks seem to be the same way (spending a lot of time handfeeding them all, even with dried insects that is)
Thank you for the information. And especially emphasizing observation.
I am truly shocked you didn’t include the Ameraucana. Truly the sweetest and affectionate of all hens.
I have an easter egger that is the sweetest. I have 3 buff orpington chickens. 1 of the orpington hens is the biggest bully in my flock.
Thank you. Where can get them for my farm 👍💪👌🐓🐔🐥🤘🦾💪💓💓
My buff Brahma is shaping up to be a bully. She has picked the feathers off of3 different chickens. I’m thinking a time out is in order.
I've been raising chickens since the late 70's here in CT, I really like the Plymouth barred rocks as they are super docile and pretty quiet birds as well. They lay 200-250 eggs a year on average and are just sweet friendly birds. If you want the best laying hens, then ISA browns are by far the best layers ever and pretty docile as well. One of the flightiest high-strung birds are the white leghorns, they are superb layers of white eggs, but you need to keep them occupied as they are restless and love to just be in the yard scratching and looking for insects all day long.
We have Jersey Giants. They are calm for the most part unless startled. Our rooster only tried to peck at me once and the hens got after him. Haven't had any issues since.
Kiss those girls on the lips! 😂
We had silver dorkings and they were fantastic as young kid chickens, great breed!.
That you. Very informative. I am working on raising chickens for the first time. We had chickens growing up but I was rather young at the time and didn't fully understand what it all involved.
Turkens! Love these mellow, affectionate birds. Great layers too.
Isa Browns best laying friendly breed by far.. surprised not on this list
Real, my ISA Brown hen does flies in my shoulder and likes clucking to me, LOL
What about Marans? I have a lot of the breeds on your list, but I would like to add a Marans or two. Do they live well with other breeds?
Best chicken RUclips channel hands down
I have cornish cross and Brahma hens. The cornish are about 10 weeks and the brahmas 6 weeks. Will they mix well??
I adore my Golden Comets and Dominiques. ❤
Great tips. Thanks so miuch for sharing. I was wondering. I started with 2 chicken. I add another one and things were great. Then, I ended up losing 2 of those chicken. I only have 1 left, and I was looking for a way to add more without causing a lot of friction.
My Road Island Red is exactly how you described.
Barred Rock...Our 3 wouldn't make this list if you met them. LOL!!! Loud, (one likes to "gossip about the neighbors") one bullies the cat and Pit Bull, the other follows which ever sister she chooses at that time. Don't like pets, but when they free range, all I have to do is let them see me and holler... CHICKENS!!!! and they come running. Daily entertainment and eggs...WIN WIN!!! Great birds..still laying strong at 5 yrs old.
Thank you very much for pisting this video. I have just aquired a coup and seven chickens. This is very informative so I have subscribed to be a part of your community.
Wife and I are starting out, and we live in an urban area, and our city allows backyard chicken, not rooster, and that's OK with us. We are looking at a store bought coop and run that can hold up to 4, but we only want 2 for now. We are thinking of the Rhode Island and the Plymouth Rock given the heat here in South Florida. With just those 2 is that a good start for newbies? We do want egg producers. Would appreciate an help and or comment. Thanks
My chickens always run up when I turn over a board. They find sow bugs, snail eggs, and maybe earwigs. Soo satisfying to see that
I have all sorts and my favourites are leghorns as best layers but can be a bit flighty and aggressive towards others
Our Rhode Island reds are pretty sweet. Our Polish are so cute and, one has slept in my lap and trilled.
very unfortunate that my orpington was not what this video claimed they would be,, she was an extreme bully to my rhode island n since we just got her along w other chicks, we decided to just simply exchange her for a different breed rather than try to sort it out, quarantine, etc. She was very sweet when being held though and more friendly towards humans but to the flock she was a mean one. The store manager was also surprised when we returned her but I guess they can't all be friendly lol
My sister is having the same problem with her orpingtons. She got 6 rainbow dixies, and they were so sweet even though they were twice the size of the other chickens, but they all ended up being roos. She is going to try again and hope for some females.
Her aggressive roo, we think he is a welsummer cross, was scared of them when they were introduced to the flock because of their size
I'm shocked that the store manager took her back. That's an enormous bioecurity breach to future buyers' flocks.
You forgot Orpington’s! I agree with faverolles, Cochins, brahmas and Rhode Island reds definitely
Only rude hen i had was a Rhode Island Red, but she was great broody gal.
Almost all u listed were heavy breeds. 4 smaller like Polish & Silkies.
You gave a lot of information. Can you slow down a little? I agree with most everything you said. Yes! about the Rhode Island Red breed. They can be mean! I combined some from a farmer who dropped them off, after we had separated them of course, but they are still mean and domineering to my barred rocks and other chickens. The previous generation raised a lot of Rhode Island red chickens, but now there are so many other breeds we can get. Thank you for the video. If you could slow down a little that would be good. I did change the speed on the playback, but then it was too slow.
He was wrong a few times, made mistakes... Bad video.
Thanx for sharing your experience stay blessed 😊😊😊
LOVE the Plymouth Rock
Do you think buff Orpington’s,Americauna’s,leghorns,ones that kind of look like Cochins,and two that look like either Plymouth rocks or barred rocks with a Americauna rooster is a good mix and two that are a mixed breed of Amaricauna and leghorn
Why did you leave out Golden Comets? They are the most “in your pocket “ chickens!!! Best layers -350 eggs a year.
They're a cross, not a breed. Sex links and Easter Eggers are all crosses.
Oh my God YESS!! THEY ARE THE BEST!
My beginning flock was composed of 8 hens, 2 each of white leghorns, Rhode Island reds, barred rocks, and lavender orpingtons. We have lost 3 of those (one each leghorn, RIR, barred rock) over the last 3 years. They were raised together from the beginning and get along well, though the RIRs are definitely the head hens and least pleasant to be around. I’ve had to correct them a few times for being a bit aggressive toward me! But overall I have enjoyed my flock and they are all great egg layers! We are getting Black Star chicks next week to start refreshing the flock. 🤍
yes jersey giants are amazing i keep them with my arrucana and even a rooster they all get along
It's also so much a problem of individual personality. I had chicken that were not a problem, just nice , and some other of the same breed are a pain in the neck or some of same breed are super friendly and others just aloof lol.
But when I do have problematic individual chickens who pick on others constantly hit them or don't let them eat, I make them soup. I love a calm, friendly flock where everyone has a peaceful happy life.
The salmon fevorol(?) are like laurel and hardy in my flock. So funny but definitely at the bottom of the pecking order
Great video thank you. I could t find your link in the description.
Hello, was wondering if you ever had a flock that just wants to stay in coop? I have 6 (1 mo old) Australourps and for some reason they live to stay indoors. I actually have to pick them up and put them outside on perch etc in the run. Thoughts? Oh, btw - I’ve taken mealworms, other food items where they eat out of hands to help coax them out - but no luck ?? Ideas ??
I'm having the same issue with my 8 week old Sapphire Gems. They are sweet, affectionate and seem to listen and follow me, but they won't go outside unless I pick them up and carry them!
They'll work it out. I found if they have food in the coop they won't go far
@@milliemrrobinson1074 it’s common for certain breeds to be less “adventurous” than others. Perhaps there is an external factor that is causing them to not leave the coop. For instance, if you have other animals around, this may cause your chickens, especially young ones, to not want to leave the safety of their coop. We slowly integrated our girls to the outdoors by letting them play in a run outdoors so they got used to the sounds and smells of the great outdoors. Once they were comfortable being outside, they would run right out whenever the door opened.
@@KyleKaiser7 thank you! I'm planning on setting up a run for them in the next few days.
@@milliemrrobinson1074 I promise, that will definitely help! Just make sure they aren’t in direct sunlight, and that food and water are still available. If it’s possible, place the run in an area with grass/weeds so that they grasp the idea of snacking on these healthy food options. I have personally never had a Sapphire Gem, but I’ve had an Orpington, Leghorn, Brahmas, Jersey Giant, Silkies, Barred Rock, Rhode Island Red, Ameraucanas, Mystic Maran and a Wyandotte, and this method has had success with all of them.
Texas zone 8 here. Looking for a very friendly quiet docile breed for the backyard
Me too. Also worried about our heat !
@@aliciaspears7847 Bielefelder
We've had wonderful experiences with our Turkens. The ones with no feathering are double gene better breed standard but the single gene bow-tie neck variation is still a wonderful bird. Large brown eggs right one at 6 months daily. They follow me around like puppies. The roosters are protective but haven't attacked us. Always be cautious. My Cream Legbars do well in the heat too, pretty blue eggs BUT all 3 roosters are @sses.
I have a mixed flock of ISA browns, Starlight Green Eggers, and Lavender Orpingtons. My ISAs are the friendliest, the Orpingtons are the bullies 🤷🏼♀️
ISA?
Thanks for the video I've learn a lot
What is the main difference between Barred rocks and Plymouth rocks? Some people refer to them as being the same
“Plymouth Rock” is the chicken breed. They come in variations based on coloring. “Barred” coloring is stripes like on the Barred Owl or, in the case of this chicken breed, is the black and white striping. There are other colors of Plymouth Rocks like white, black and others. So a “Barred Plymouth Rock” or “White Plymouth Rock” etc… is a description based on combining the coloring and the breed
@@Alpha1Farms Thank you! Makes a lot more sense now 👌
Thanks for asking that question. I wondered the same thing since when discussing the Plymouth Rock, the chicken shown in the video looked to me exactly like the Barred Rock.
@@chellsgram Indeed, it was silly of the video to show the barred for a second time, particularly when there are other colours - like the white.
You did not mention the New Hampshire breed?
Are they good with other breeds or should I keep them separate?
I learned about them and others on my list from a Hobby Farm magazine that my roommate gets and gives me once done with them…
Excellent video. Thank you.
Glad it was helpful!
What’s difference in barred and Plymouth ???
Currently I have 2 white leghorns, and 2 rhode island reds (all hens) that I've raised since they were babies. So far they all get along fine, the only exception being that Karen, the largest hen, somewhat bullies the others and gets snippy with people. However not to an extent where there's been any injuries. The most she's ever done is shoo away the other hens if she wants to eat or drink alone, and she'll peck at feet if you're wearing open-toed shoes.
Here in Costa Rica there aren't many options in terms of breeds. So I started with some chickens from one of my neighbours. They were great for brooding their own eggs and pretty much care free. But they were small and erratic in their egg laying. And the roosters were constantly fighting. I'd sell the resulting offspring when I had more than a couple dozen, getting an occasional new hen to bring in new blood. I kept the roosters that were most chill and got rid of the trouble makers (including the occasional hen with behavioral traits I didn't like) and over the last 15 years or so I've got myself a pretty chill group of chickens always keeping 2 roosters that get into the occasional squabble but they live pretty much in peace with each other. My only problem is I've bred that good brooding instinct out of them as well, so I have to keep a couple "criollo" hens to brood eggs for me. But you can actually make some pretty substantial changes to chickens behavior over several generations just by only letting the ones who's behavior you like send their genetics forward.
What is the %protein needed in layer crumbles
We had a few Cochin roosters. One of them was real mean. He would get behind you and those spurs came out on the back of your legs. I used to walk around with a trash can lid to cover my legs to protect them….lol.
Do you know much about the cinnamon queen breed?
What about Dominiques?
They are my favorite! Very underrated great birds !!! My Agnes is so social and like a puppy. On my heels or in my lap.
Orpington and barred rock roosters can be very calm. You have to handle them a bunch but mine have treated small kids very well. An aggressive rooster has NO place on the hobbiest's yard. 10-12 months is a long time to raise a stew bird. So spend time trying to handle the rooster before he comes into his breeding age.
My friend had a Black Star (sex link) female that was very curious and a good layer. Not sure if they can be handled unless you raise them from chicks.
So which are the aggressive, no mix types??
Avoid breeds described as 'very alert', 'active', 'flighty', etc. As others have mentioned, some of the Rhode Island Reds can actually be aggressive/bossy.
Trying to find a breed of chicken that does well here in North Carolina and is easy to take care of but that the rooster doesn't crow too loudly so it doesn't disturb my neighbor. Plymouth rock and barred rock so far seem to be the best bet, any help would be appreciated
My barred rock rooster has the quietest crow I’ve ever heard!
Sapphire Gem is another pretty hen, with a two tone grey feather!
I have always raised Rhode Island Red's, from Texas to Arizona, Missouri, Montana and now Florida. Awesome dual purpose bird, hens usually friendly and prolific egg layers. Roosters, however, CAN be aggressive so we always monitor several young roosters to pick the most friendly ones for keeping. The more aggressive we seperate, raise to full size, then fire up the offset smoker. That being said, our hens have always been like playful little kids who love human interaction, including children.
Where did you order your chicks your chickens? What company?
i have one road island red bully and golden wyandot both bullies separated from flock
my rode island reds are very gentle
I love your vids i have 3 baby chicks
I got my first batch of 4 pullets, and I thought that the coop was secure until a fox found a small gap under the egg box and some how bit a hole through it, all of them died, two were taken away and 2 were left with their heads ripped off
I know nothing about chickens so please excuse my question. Why would you want a mixed flock as opposed to picking a breed with the characteristics you want and raise a flock of them?
Depends on what you want a flock for. I’ve got many different breeds together because I like all the different egg colors. But if you want to raise and sell a certain breed, you’d pick one breed and work on improving them.
My wyandotte was named "Karen" for a reason. She was such a bully to my other girls. We lost her last year and the sad reality is, the rest of my flock has been so much more harmonious and chill without her, and nobody is missing feathers anymore. My Easter egger is extremely sweet. She's the flock mom who looks out for all the others.
I had a flock of four chickens, 2 wyandottes, 1 easter egger and 1 australorp. The 2 wyandottes were the most evil chickens on the face of the planet. They hated (and bullied) the other two chickens, who were sweet and docile. I swore i would NEVER own wyandottes ever agaib!
We have two jersey giants in our flock
The best video
Friendly docile chickens are Easter Eggers, buff orpingtons, black australorps, Wyandotte
Who told you RI Reds were nice??? A flock had feather picking...and when the RI Reds died, the feather picking went away.
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