What's the best chicken to keep in a coop?
by Pat on 02/28/14
The answer depends on a few things. First of all, there are some breeds which don't like coops at all. These are the tree-loving high-roosting breeds. Typically lighter weight, slimmer birds, which seek the top of the barn, or any roost far above any ground-hugging predators. Chickens raised for meat are comfotable just hanging around in their coop. They are not foragers, and gain weight faster if they aren't running around getting tough. Egg layers are almost all bred for characteristics which lend to adaptability. They can easily thrive, either in or out of coops, but do best if protected when they are most vulnerable - at night. They do best if allowed to range, scratch, dust/sun bathe, and forage during part of the day. The breeds we find best suited to most environments are: Ameracaunas, (buff) Orpingtons, Plymouth rocks (we like the barred rocks), and Wyandottes of any type. We have found Rhode Island Reds to be more aggressive than many other breeds, and don't recommend them for families with kids.
