Best Chicken Breeds For Beginners (And My Flock Expansion!)

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Raising hens from baby chicks is one of the most rewarding experiences you can have as an urban homesteader...so much so that I couldn't resist adding to the flock! In this video I break down every breed I currently keep and tease the new breeds I'll be introducing very soon on the channel!
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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 - Intro
01:12 - Orpington
03:03 - Cream Legbar
04:41 - Rhode Island Red
05:46 - Wyandotte
07:58 - Help Me Name The Next Breeds
08:32 - Black Australorp
09:37 - Buff Brahma
11:09 - Jubilee Orpington
11:44 - Splash Laced Wyandotte
13:50 - Conclusion
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[@lisahuber9329]

for the Buff Brahma I'd go with "Drahma", those feathers look super dramatic 😄

[@HillTopRooted]

Nice. I was thinking Big Mama but the one word ruled nix’d it! Drahma. Good call! 💜

[@Live.life.simple.9832]

I was thinking Dharma!

[@christophera-realone9834]

Brahma too big, don’t live long

[@NathanHentz]

Obrahma

[@eliseville]

@@christophera-realone9834 Big, but amazing calm needed in any flock! My Light Brahma, M’Lady protects the lowest-ranking. Making sure doorways & nests are big enough is the main issue with these docile & towering ladies❤️

[@Chet_Thornbushel]

Some name ideas for you straight off the dome as you listed the breeds: Black australorp: Onyx Buff Brahma: Mondo Jubilee Orp: Queeny Splash Lace: Pinecone For your entertainment these are our current chicken names, mostly curated by my kids. Feel free to steal any of them 😆 Baseball Rusty Meatball Peep Coal Poppy Molly Rosie Onward Tootsie Bulldozer

[@ashleyhansen9009]

Oh hey! I thought of Queenie too! Though spelled differently obviously.

[@DoctorMeatDoesHousecalls]

Ayyyy. We’re 2/4. Didn’t even look at the comments before I posted mine 🤙🏼

[@HillTopRooted]

I yelled out Onyx as soon as I saw him. 😂

[@rosensidhe3267]

Pinecone is very cute. :D

[@ReggieM188]

Cool i thought of Coal for the black australorp! and tbh i loooove when animals are called meatball or something like that lol

[@justjason7662]

I'm a rookie at raising my pullets. I went with Buff Orpies and Black Sex Links. I have to say, I love how relaxed and easy going the Orpies are, but the Blacks have some crazy hilarious personality! Two of my 9 Blacks RUSH to my hand to be picked up like it's a race to be first. The Orpies don't seem to rush for anything except maybe treats lol. I'm really enjoying watching them grow into their personalities. We're 2 1/2 weeks in so far and they grow CRAZY FAST! It's like every day I'm shocked to see how much they grew over night!

[@rosewood9839]

I took 3 chicks that a friend didn’t want. Two were cockerels that had to be re-homed. Then I found a breeder. I’m the proud mom of one hen from the friend, an Easter egger that looks like a chipmunk, and my favorite, a Lavender Orpington! I am going to buy one more Lavender because she is so sweet! I never thought I’d pay $20 for a chick!

[@bspevans7940]

For the black hen...you could go all Edgar Allen Poe on it and name it Raven, Nevermore, or Poe. For the Buff Brahma, looks so golden, so Goldie or Biggums. The Jubilee Orp: Queenie Weyendotte: Lacey

[@kaceystotesbery3041]

The cream legbar does lay blue eggs. If you are getting a light brown with blueish tint then she is likely an olive egger- a cross between a cream legbar and another breed, usually a copper marans. I have Both and they look very similar

[@cgoodloe]

My cream legbar screamed all day every day. Got rid of her fast.

[@TheTenacioustony]

I have a cream legbar, even though when I got it from TSC it was label a Easter egger, and she definitely lays blue eggs. Glad I watched this and have a breed to label her

[@cgoodloe]

Cream legbar has a mohawk on top of its head and usually a creamy brown/beige feather set all over. Yours might be an Easter egger if it doesn't have that mohawk.

[@eliseville]

@@cgoodloe My Crested Cream Legbar, “Melody”, chatters sweetly soto voce, other than her vibrant egg-songs! She is my only gal who regularly jumps the fence into our chicken-safe backyard, so I still don’t clip her wing. Luckily, no one else follows her.

[@hannesofie6071]

I totally agree! 👍👍 My CLs also are really curious and personable and loves attention! They are quite active though......

[@jessicasjoberg4950]

We are getting our very first chickens in just a couple of days, and my daughter wanted a black chicken to name Wednesday, so for your black australorp I suggest Wednesday as her name 😊

[@surgicaltechcrafter2169]

We named our Mystic Black Maran Elvira

[@michaelannscecina7080]

For breeds that are listed as laying cream/blue/green eggs. That BREED may lay those colors, but each singular chicken of that breed only lays one of the colors. So you could have an olive egger mix or just a cream legbar that lays creamy eggs.

[@montanaliving4769]

Awe, our 3 barred rock hens are almost a year old now and we love them like pets. I was gone for 2 weeks and when I got back they all wanted held and hugged. Mine are named Rose, Iris and lily. I grow a mean garden but no flowers, thats how they got flower names. They have my garden beds perfectly prepped now and ready to plant. Just love chickens! 3 eggs a day is nice as well!

[@christopherbaby3842]

Good to see the Barred Rock Gang represented in the comments. If he ends up getting more hens after this batch (doubtful just based on run size) and he doesn't get a barred rock then we riot. 🔱

[@montanaliving4769]

@@christopherbaby3842 They are the best! Never met a sweeter or calmer chicken and I would have never known how smart they were if I hadn't got them. Grew up with Rhode Island reds, they were mean! The barred rocks were the only type left when we went to purchase chicks so thats how we ended up with them, I wouldn't have any other breed now.

[@myurbangarden7695]

Barred Rock is our main choice.

[@barbd8047]

I've just gotten 2 Barred Rocks and they are older independent girls hence I've named them Maggie Smith and Judi Dencha aka a couple of old dames! They are laying well, tho.

[@SpecificSprout]

The black Australorp definitely could be named Duchess, they have that regal iridescence that could really suit such a fancy name. Also idk why but the splash laced kind of remind me of a coyote in colour, which could also be a fun name!

[@melynda5414]

duchess is a good one

[@angelinaparker3308]

What a wonderful flock! I always loved by Buff Orpington, Daisy, who was such a sweet girl who'd sit in my lap for hours. But my favorite breed has been my Easter Eggers...although technically a mix, they have such great personalities. I had one Easter Egger, Chipmunk, who was best buds with my pit bull. They'd play bow to each other, chase each other (gently) around, and then would lay down and take naps together. I also adore their tufts and beards, and they do very well in hot climates. And on top of that, they give you the most beautiful egg colors.

[@catlinhollow]

Easter Eggers are my fave, too!

[@siamstation]

We have 2 black australorp chickens and when the sun shines on them, their feathers are a mixture of what seems like mixed colours. Mine are called Opal as they remind me of Australian Opal. I would be honoured if you called your new black australorp...."Opal" Blessings from Australia 🐓🐔🧡🐤🐥

[@matthysloedolff]

I really liked the chill vibe of this video. As for naming the new chickens I can only think of two names for the Australorp - Wombat or Emu. These are Australian animals and the picture you showed of the black australorp reminded me slightly of a wombat.

[@MB-co6qj]

I like Dingo too!

[@patevans3709]

For the Australorp, what about "Pinkie"? Because of the Australia connection, I am thinking of Olivia Newton John, the singer-actress from the movie "Grease" who played Sandy. The female gang she joined was called the Pink Ladies, thus "Pinkie". In the picture you posted, her comb is a lighter red--more pinkish in color.

[@appalachiabrauchfrau]

I would suggest Sheila, just because I can only hear that word in my head in Steve Erwin's voice.

[@jenae_ned]

i only thought of names for the first two but for the first one i was thinking the name Charcoal and the one after that Toffee i thought they were cute names that would fit in the flock you created :)

[@crazydaisyminds3597]

I had a buff orpington who went broody and raised 3 chicks but she was attacked along with one of her pullets and passed away. She had a sweet bossy attitude and made a great mama. The brahama was sorta agressive towards my husband and very protective of her sisters. She passed after a move back to Florida. We had a black star Sussex and she was one of my favorites. Now we have a bunch of small chickens. Super fun looking chickens but I’m always sad to lose our old chickens. Getting new chicks helps fill holes from the losses we had.

[@trudiclayton2479]

Being an Aussie and having had Australorp, I think it will become a favourite! They are very long lived and are super friendly and calm. Good names are Digger (that’s what we call our armed soldiers), or Mate/Matey for obvious reasons :) or possible Blue because they have a bluey green sheen to them in the sunlight.

[@Donna_G]

Your hens are so pretty. The Rhode Island Red might by plain; but, I love the red color. When I had chickens, I named them after gemstones. I think that for a black hen, I would call it Galena or Shungite; maybe, even Morion. These are types of black gemstones which are pretty in their own way and can be worked up into jewelry.

[@rayneorshine]

Every time we've gotten a batch of chicks we've gotten wyandottes. We have seen the same thing with the wyandottes not wanting to be held so much. But we have a chick right now that has been a lot more friendly than the other three we've had. We've definitely noticed the buff orpington chicks we have right now are extremely snuggly also.

[@agwats85]

I'm a big fan of barred rocks. I live in Kentucky so the cold tolerance is a little more important to me than it is in SD but they are good producers at over 200 eggs a year and the roosters are a good dinner size. Also they cross well with my silver laced wyandotte rooster. Supposedly they will produce black hens and barred roosters which is super convenient for deciding which ones end up in the freezer

[@theotherway0]

I've actually tried this theory, it worked . But you need a solid coloured rooster , and barred hens. I used a black silkie rooster ,and barred rock hens. The male offspring was barred , and had the cutest tuft of feathers on their head avd the hens were pure black , with the same hairstlye 😊

[@edim108]

We have Bielefelders- German breed developed from Plymouth Rock- and we had Rocks for many years. Can't recommend them enough! Absolutely beautiful birds that lay lots of eggs and grow large with a lot of meat, they forage well and are easy to handle.

[@sarahdore7884]

I have a dark Brahma and a buff Brahma. Love them both! I’ve had many breeds of chickens but the Brahmas are awesome. My dark Brahma Chili is absolutely gorgeous and the sweetest chicken I’ve ever had. I also love my Polish and Sultan chickens. Such funny personalities

[@harrisonbergeron9764]

Chickens are by far the easiest "Farm" animal to raise. Give them secure shelter (easier said then done at times depending on where you live), food, water, socialization and they will pretty much take care of themselves. Don't know if you have Black Snakes in your area but the 1" welded wire panels you have will not keep them out as the can climb.

[@SurprisedPikacheesecake]

eek, that's scary! Mind if i ask what area you're in? Contemplating chickens down the road when it makes sense for my life, so who knows if i'll still be living where i am now by the time i get them, but I'm in eastern MA, USA these days.

[@thebeardedhamm]

We have two Black Australorps and we love them! As a homage to their Aussie heritage, I would recommend either Brekky ( their term for breakfast) or Chili, the mom from Bluey! Best of luck to you and thanks for all of the great videos! We name all of ours after female chefs, as we love cooking shows and our two Australorps are Padma and Maneet.

[@heatherhorton2547]

Don’t forget the Ameraucana. During the end of our Lacey’s life and covid she sat with my great niece during her kindergarten online school. Our’s was really sweet. Make sure also that you get a good Avian vet in case something happens.

[@stickerscat]

My favorites are anything that lays a fancy egg! Black copper marans for dark chocolate, Ameraucana and whiting true blue for the best blues, olive eggers, welsummers for speckles. Also, American Bresse, for great dual purpose breed is a must on a homestead.

[@sharon_rn2066]

I absolutely loved my Speckled Sussex. Very curious and friendly. She would run to my car and jump in the trunk to see what I bought. Once a UPS driver had to bring her home because she had jumped into the back of his truck and he didn’t notice until his next stop! 😳 Cochins are sweet and loving too. I’m not good at naming chickens until I see their personality. Good luck! I’ve got three chicks coming next week and eight coming in early July but my Carolina Coop is coming on Friday! I call this Chicken Life, Chapter Two. Haven’t had them for about 10 years.

[@HeyWatchMeGo]

Did you get your 3 chicks? Were they Speckled Sussex? I have a fairly large flock/free range. I started with 54 unsexed chicks. After the rooster cull I ended up with (a couple) of Copper Marans, 4 Jersey G's, a doz Orps, 2 EE's, and a bunch of Brahmas. The Brahmas are my very best birds, super friendly and docile...but my favorite (just one) is an kinda scrawny little Easter Egger with a bit of a beard and a neck like a giraffe. Lays an occasional pink egg, haha, but she knows exactly where I am 100% of the time. lol Doesn't want to be picked up, but very happy to follow me around and eat out of my hand. She definitely knows her name... Pinky/cause of the pink eggs. :)

[@Amberleighhxx]

We pick up our first set of ladies next weekend and I’m beyond excited! We’re going with herb/floral names so my husband has already decided to name our Brahma Big Thyme

[@danielomaha3733]

The buckeye is an endangered super cold hardy and friendly bird. They are beautiful and blend right in with forests. They forage and turn compost aswell.

[@susanpharr6809]

An unusual breed I have raised is Swedish Flower hens. Blommehonas. They come in a variety of colors. Coveted golden and white tip ‘petaled’ feathered ones can be found. Luck of the draw. They are not big layers. They are sweet natured. Light brown flecked eggs. I found them not as hardy as my Black Aussies and others. Although they are said to be winter hardy. Being more passive, they may end up lower on the pecking order - as it goes for others of similar nature! Names: Swish for a pretty Jubilee…Moma for the Big Brahma! Pick the friendliest and prettiest one and call her Lunita - after our recent full May Flower Moon! Of course you gotta take the time and names will come…

[@jts8053]

I'm thinking of getting two Orpingtons and two Australorps myself. For your new birds' names, I suggest "Inky" for the new Australorp, "Yami" for the Brahma (It's technically a name, but it's a Hindu Goddess' name), "Cherry" for the Jubilee Orpington, and "Doily" for the Wyandotte.

[@JuleJette]

I absolutely love my two barnevelder chickens! They are absolutely gorgeous kinda like the Wyandots. They are big and cuddly and so sweet.

[@livclementine6373]

We have a flock of 14 Brahmas, two Ameraucanas, and one Easter egger. We love our Brahmas, they lay great, good mothers, and are very cold tolerant (we are in Northern British Columbia). I have to say my favourite is our Easter Egger, she is so curious and tends to just follow me around during morning and evening chores. She lets me handle her and lays really beautiful blues green eggs (about 5 a week!). I think you’ll love having Brahmas, they are really great chickens and if you have enough forage for them the feed cost balances out, we have about an acre for our birds and they foraged for the majority of their food when snow is off the ground.

[@HeyWatchMeGo]

Same here, with the Brahmas, and the EE that follows me around! I only have the one EE, in a fairly big flock, but your comment makes me want to get another! lol

[@audreyvann5336]

I love our black Australorps. They are Sheila, Midnight, and Patsy. They are very easy going. One of them does get broody. We had almost a whole month of 100 degree weather, and they all did fine. They had shade and plenty of water.

[@csherma22]

Isa Browns, amber stars, and black stars are amazing backyard egg laying hens.

[@TechnoRain421]

For the Black Australorp, I'd like to play off of the 2nd half of the breed name and go with "Gloorp" as a name! For Buff Brahma, maybe Sandy For the Jubilee Orpington, perhaps Snow? (I think this one explains its self) For the Splashed Laced Wyandotte, maybe Autumn? (It's pattern just reminds me of beautiful autumn leaves)

[@jenstockslager5216]

Thank you for the comforting feeling we have 1 Rhode Island Red Petunia is her name and we lost all of our flock but her. This year I have brought in Cochin, Australops, Barred Rock and Buff Orphington. I was afraid of how our elder Rhodie would do but I think she will adapt nicely.

[@JoyoftheGardenandHome]

Lav is my favorite, she's so plump🥰 I only got Buffy for the buff. Great names already mentioned.

[@BirdsongCrochet]

They are sooo freakin' cute and I love all the different personalities!! Some name suggestions for the new hens: Black Australope = Astro or Eggplant Buff Brahma = Oatmeal Jubilee Orpington = Espresso Splash Laced Wyandotte = Chantilly .. Looking forward to seeing the new gals!

[@alfredoordonez1505]

I've been raising chickens for years, and the best bread I've had the pleasure to raise is the salmon faverolles. They are docile, a decent egg layer, and just a majestic bird to look at. Because of there gentle demeanor they tend to get bullied a lot. I always make sure I always have faverolles in my flock. If you haven't got any, it's a chicken you won't regret adding to the flock.

[@ellencox8415]

I have been researching hens for years and I've just come to the conclusion I have analysis paralysis. Do you have recommendations for QUIET resilient breeds? I would like 5 heavy egg producers with 5 larger meat producers. I plan on adding a rooster once the hens have established themselves.Thanks!

[@HeyWatchMeGo]

@@ellencox8415 BRAHMAS! Mine lay a lot of eggs... As far as the meat birds, just go with the standard meat varieties that don't move/just eat/ and the ones that people butcher at 6-8 wks. The Heritage types aren't worth it. Been there... ;)

[@ellencox8415]

@@HeyWatchMeGo THANK YOU!!! I am currently building the hen house with a separate mobile run so your comment came just in time 🤗.

[@troxycat]

Two of my favorites over time have been Easter Eggers, and the Russian Orloff. They both tend to have very small combs, like the Wyandottes, which makes them a great choice for colder climates. Fantastic temperaments and solid layers, and the orloffs are known for continuing laying during the winter when other breeds slow down. And, of course, you get those beautiful blue/green eggs with the EE's. Have to give a shout out to Plymouth rocks too...I've gotten the most gorgeous barnyard crosses from my blue rock, and I'm absolutely blown away by just how friendly my white rock roosters are. And they're HUGE! I'd say right up there with brahmas!

[@reneekh3599]

I had 1 Jersey Giant, 2 plain-faced Easter Eggers, 1 bearded Easter Egger, & 1 plain-faced Olive Egger. I'm now down to 2 EE (1 bearded, 1 not), & my 1 OE. ALL of my chickens have had fabulous personalities & lay a good # of eggs. My bearded EE loves being cuddled & just absolyteky loves people. All the other chickens love hanging out with people, too. They all will let you pick them up & are very easy to handle when you do, but won't cuddled like Bearded Lady. I miss the Jeesey Giant terribly...😔. She loved hanging with us the entire time we were outside & loved to "chatter" to us the entire while & watch what we were doing. She also was our best producer, laying a sometimes 70g+ king-sized egg almost every day! ("king-sized" is not an American measurement - it is used in Australia!). Unfortunately, a stray dog scaled our fence & killed her 😔. I would LOVE to have one of every JG hen color again. GREAT chickens! And I absolutely love my sweet Easter & Olive Eggers.

[@clszabo1s]

Since I have small children, I'm definitely looking into the Orpingtons (for their personality) and Easter Eggers (for their egg colors). The only good name I can think of is Queenie for your Jubilee Orpington. Queenie was a popular nickname for women named Victoria throughout her reign and into the 20's. Not sure if that breaks the "not an actual name" rule since it's a nickname, but I thought it would be perfect for the new Orpington. Love your content! It has really helped me to have a greener thumb! Thanks!

[@MikeJones-wp2mw]

One of my legbars looks like yours, but my other two have way darker feathers. I lucked out and was the first one at the feed store the day they came in so I picked the darkest the lightest and one in the middle. Oddly enough I have lavender Orpingtons that don't like being held as much as my legbars. The orps are very curious and friendly they just don't want to be picked up.

[@nikioliver14]

I love to see the flock expanding! Name ideas are 1. eightball 2. mallow 3. you break the rule of no human names for the royal Diana lol 4. just looks like elvis

[@debbiesmith3003]

your chickens seem a lot like mine! my favorite breeds that I have found are the americanas and easter eggers they have the best little personalities and the most adorable faces!

[@serenas5658]

I love my hens too! I would like to get more in a few years . Black australorp- Raven /Jade Splash Wyandotte- Luna Jubilee orp- Pearl Brahma- biscotti / hazel(like the nut)

[@baubojan4862]

When you said you felt sick I thought you might mention eating chicken soup. 😮 Suggestions for names - Jet, Drama, Sparks, Dot🐤

[@HillTopRooted]

As usual, fantastic video full of great info! I hope you feel better as well. 💜 I live in a HOA area but was recently given the best idea to get around the red tape. I’m going to register my chics as support animals! 🥰 In truth they really would be in more ways than one. You sitting there introducing everyone, one by one, just solidifies that point. I felt all the calmness, warmth and love while watching! And what a way to get the conversation moving in the chat! I enjoyed reading all the suggestions just as much as I did watching the video! Great job all around! 💜. Now on to narrowing down my selection for my very on squad! I did think it interesting that you didn’t mention Easter Eggers or Copper Marans. They seem to be the ones most talk about! 💜🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@Wildstorm1997]

Honestly I love road island reds, but then again my flock consists of Road island reds, Cinnamon queens and Golden Comets. Currently trying to hatch some Back Australorps, and we have 3 new chicks..but i forgot their breed lol. I understand completely about getting to many eggs..had to start selling them to coworkers, but considering the price of eggs in stores now of days it works out. Your flock is so pretty though! Hope you get some good name suggestions.

[@sarahinnerst-peterson2245]

I’d love to hear more when it comes time to introduce the new birds to the flock: what method you choose and why and how it goes. Thanks!

[@arhodes2866]

Enjoyed seeing your girls. Would love a couple. Look forward to seeing your new additions to flock. A few name suggestions Ebony (such an amazing colour), Ginger (colour again); Lady (cause she will be); Bobbin. (Used for lace making) thanks for sharing.

[@dawnpleasant2319]

Stormy for the Australorp, Bruiser or Empress for the Brahma. Nothing comes to mind yet for the others yet. Butta is so adorable! Love seeing the chickens.

[@pattyclarkson3]

Australorp: Licorice Brahma: Gorgeous Wyandotte: just name her Splash Orpington: Jewel I've got 5 new chickies all named after a spice... the spice chicks 😉 Autralorp is Licorice 😊 Speckled Sussex is Saffron Welsummer is Paprika Wyandotte is Nutmeg Olive egger is Poppy (like poppy seeds. Not sure if that's really considered a spice but close enough for me). Gotta love chickens and their antics!!

[@makkachin9614]

Thistle would be a cute name for any of the hens! Thistle or " Bogáncs" is actually a popular dog name in Hungary, because you know, your pet will stick to you like a thistle for (hopefully) all of their lives :)

[@kh628]

Aw, what a sweet reason to name a pet after! I think the closest equivalent name in the US is "Shadow", for a pet that will follow you around everywhere like your shadow does. But I think "Thistle" seems more cute!

[@asteraceae2042]

Hope it's not too late to drop some names! How about Ziggy for the Splash Laced Wyandotte, Freckle for the orpington, Oolong for the australorp, and Gyro for the brahma :)?

[@ashleymckee1140]

Black aus = bondi (like the Australian beach) Buff brahma = latte (because of the color) Jubilee orp = queenie (in honor of queen victoria) Wyandotte = splash (it's basic lol) Have fun with your new ladies! Can't wait to see them and hear their names.

[@tericamcginnis5848]

The new group could all be named as a group. Like flowers - rose, viola, snapdragon, tulip..... Or jewels - emerald, jasmine , jade, pearl, .... Any category. Or, wait till you get them and pick something based upon the personality. You have already had a lot of good ideas mentioned. Good content thanks!

[@erintannehill]

I love my Rhode Island Reds. I've had many breeds over the years, and I keep coming back to the RIR breed when I am on the hunt for new chickens. I picked up a few more today, which included a Rhode Island Red and Buff Brahma mixed hen who is really pretty and calm. I'm curious to see how she will be as she settles in compared to my pure bred RIRs.

[@out2lunch110]

Love your channels! You are crushing the name game already with Rufio and lobster! I think for the black australorp if consider Vader or Pearl (like the black Pearl lol). For the buff Brahma: Beauty. Jubilee Orpington: Princess Splash laced Wyandotte: Glam I’m surprised you don’t have any silkies! Those are my fav

[@billybeaver8716]

I have a Black Star named Pearl, so of course I like that name, but I think it's too much of a proper name for what he wants. She is the gem of my group, though.

[@KK-FL]

You're going to love the Austrolorp in the sunshine. They're almost iridescent. I'd probably name her Diamond, which would be funny because diamonds are clear and Austrolorps are blacker than black, but they shine the same in the sun to me. I have always wanted a lavender orpington! My favorite chicken I ever had was a barred rock and she also happened to be my first chicken. She knew her name, would let me hold her and laid the best eggs. I have a couple of leghorns for their production but they're not the nicest. My most interesting hen right now is a naked neck. Her name is Richard and I will let you figure out why that is 😂

[@SunshineCountryChickens]

I started with Rhode Island Reds and Im so glad I did! They have been an excellent base for my ever expanding flocks!

[@BrillantBoNeHeAd]

Beautiful birds aside, I absolutely LOVE the camera work and editing. Really brings some extra fun to your videos (not that you need it)!

[@klewis4362]

This video makes me so happy ^_^. I have already been doing a lot of research into what chickens I'd like and it's good to see how well they get along in this video. I will also be getting Orpinton's and Wynadotte's and a Brahma. His preference for names is like me too, in that I don't care for human names or pun names. I believe I've already seen some of the names I'll share below, but feel free to use if you like any of them (there are clear themes behind a few of these names :-P ) Fern Piper Nova Ronin Ivy Rayne Poppy Zara Onyx Jade Sage Saffron River Sesame Pumpkin Onyx Cayenne Chicory Paprika Chia Cashew Pistachio Lapis Opal Peanut

[@cherylburton829]

All of your hens are beautiful!! Thank you for the info on each one!!

[@HGrimes]

My swedish flower hens are a lesser known breed, but my favorites and perfect for beginners. They are cuddly kittens who make me breakfast in the morning. And they’re stunning. My barred rocks are sweet to me, but the flock bullies. I really wish I had gone with a different breed to start off because they make chickenkeeping a constant challenge and not the fun kind…

[@danfarkas5375]

With 10 hens you're about to have like 2,000 eggs a year 😂

[@doubles1545]

Not a bad problem to have.

[@ravenpineshomestead]

Pickled eggs are pretty easy to make

[@pnwfarmdog4090]

@@ravenpineshomestead and so good to eat!

[@dalepetrush4121]

Kind of the point Karen.

[@Edgar-gx6yn]

Ten hens is nothing depending who you ask. Not uncommon to have flock of over 20

[@wonka6848]

Nice introduction. You can have a look at Sundheimer, the oldest double purpose chickens in Germany. Good amount of eggs (180 - 220), good meat quality, and they are very relaxed.

[@helenmcclellan452]

How interesting! I had no idea there were so many different varieties and colorful hens. Amazing!

[@nivak11]

Are there any anticipated problems or protocols for introducing new hens to an existing clutch of chickens?

[@loverlyredhead]

Yes. They have to reestablish pecking order. So if you introduce too few, the old hens can bully the new ones to death. It can also happen if the new hens are too small/too young compared to the old flock. You generally want to keep them nearby to get used to each other's looks, then slowly integrate them during the day (with separate sleeping areas) with a safe zone for smaller/younger hens to run away to, and then once the squabbling has stopped, you're probably okay to leave them together. It's a whole process.

[@doubles1545]

Yes. Do some research. There are good ways and bad ways to mix flocks.

[@fluffymims9772]

Don’t introduce one or two birds at a time. That will get ugly! Introduce a larger group so they can stick together for safety. Begin with the flocks side by side with small guage fencing between them so they can see and get to know each other but can’t fight through the fence. When they ignore each other you can proceed with introduction. Introduce them in a large area NOT COMMON TO EITHER FLOCK! Disperse feed in many areas so no one gets bullied until they work out their pecking order. I only ever had 2 hens that fought savagely and never resolved their issues so I did have to rehome them. Hope this helps!❤🐓

[@fluffymims9772]

PS- Wait until all birds are grown so that the new flock is not smaller and weaker! 🐓❤️🐓❤️🐓❤️🐓

[@dreacero9116]

Your flock is gorgeous! Name suggestions: Australorp - Onyx; Jubilee Orpington - Confetti; Brahma - Satin or Caramel; not sure about the new Wyandotte though. I hope you start feeling better soon!

[@Crunchyblonde]

Thanks for sharing all of this info. Loving my new flock of chicks! We grabbed 4 RIR and so far they have been awesome little babies! Also have 4 Black Sexlink and 4 Isa Brown. My parents just nabbed nearly 20 Black Australorp, so I’m excited to see the differences between all of them!

[@Heidi-ir3yo]

As far as chicken breeds are concerned, I recently added a blue-laced red Wyandotte and a speckled Sussex chicken to my flock and really love the addition. Australorps (black, blue-laced or splash) are fantastic birds and layers; you’ll love yours.

[@debbiependleton8507]

Tilly, Scarlet, Honey, Tiki, Ribbon, Maui, Blossom, Rosie, Sweetie, Sage, Melody, or Pepper. Your hens are all beautiful. I'm knew to raising chickens and learning a lot from youtubers educating me. Thank you!

[@janescheibe4742]

Iridescent Australorp sounds like Opal to me! I love that name. Old fashioned and very dignified!! For any other hen, I love the names Helen and Frances. They just conjure classy old dames!! Good luck with your new chickies 🐣🐣🐣🐣

[@chiknfriends]

I have a black australorp named Betsy and she is the absolute sweetheart of my flock. Extremely gentle, not super broody (she'll sit a little on the nest but never peck or scream, just chill a little bit and cluck then calmly leave), loves to spend time with me an accept scritches. She is our most dependable layer of large light brown eggs. Love her so much!

[@UsmanFaraz854]

Nice video with good knowledge and experience, love the way you express and make it easy for us to understand

[@EmilyElizabethMusic]

Loved this rundown!

[@clintjoshuaorilla]

The common breed of chickens we keep here in the Philippines is our native breed of chicken which we call "bisayang manok". They are a descendants of the red junglefowl which is the wild bird found in our jungles and is also the primary wild ancestors of the modern chicken. So being a primative breed of chicken they are a little bit hard to work with but can be very fun and active little chickens.

[@MickyBellRoberts]

I have five Orpingtons. I love them, started keeping chickens six days ago, a lot to learn. Thank you so much for posting this video. I have subscribed to be part of your community.

[@juliewhite6887]

Love this video about chicken breeds. Also love your podcast with great information. I just got my seeds from Botanical Garden and am super excited. You never stop, so get some much earned R & R!!

[@barsboozebullets4079]

I'd be interested in seeing how you incorporate the new chickens in with your existing flock. I've seen different opinions on this but would enjoy hearing your take. Also, we just got 12 chickens yesterday, first of our "homestead" and your videos really helped give us the information to be confident taking that step. 4 Rhode Island Red, 4 Black Sex Link, and 4 Wyandotte (I'm glad you have them because I was curious on the pronunciation)

[@amaillem6299]

Hey Kevin! Loved this so much, my name suggestions are Onyx for your Black Australorp . Buff Brahma, Milan. Jubilee Orpington, Royale and Wyandotte, Spark. Thanks for your channel ❤

[@nicholausjamesjay83]

Sometimes colored layers will lay brown, white, or cream colored eggs. That can happen with Legbar, Arucana, Bluebells... Etc. I have 2 Americanas that lay cream eggs and I have a Sapphire Olive Egger that's lays a brown egg. It's pretty common.

[@jenniferreynolds7082]

Starlight is a great name for your black australorp. They can sometimes have tiny bits of white on the tips of their wings like mine does and it reminds me of stars against a black sky. The breed I am wanting is Easter Egger because of their small comb and colored eggs.

[@JulianJP21]

Excellent choice Kevin, the Australorps are really beautiful and productive!!🤙💪Great vid as always!!

[@Angelaisabellaful]

Hi Kevin! We watch your channel all the time and love your tips on gardening. This was a great video, and we thought of some names. Maybe Bahama for the Buff Brahma? When I saw what the jubilee looked like, it’s definitely one I’d name Jubilee. Thank you for sharing, Kevin!

[@GenevievesDesignStudio]

Great timing, getting chicks tomorrow 🐣 Thanks for the amazing video!

[@how2house]

Hope you're feeling better! Bone broth helps. A couple days vacation is a good idea too 😊

[@lostinspace2780]

Great video! I have 3 black austrlorps and they are quiet and great egg layers. Also, their color helps prevent hawk attacks since they appear to be crows to the hawks.

[@aliwawa620]

I’ve had two Black Australorp . The one named Cocoa went broody once so I snuck a few duck eggs in her nest and she hatched two beautiful ducklings for me! She took excellent care of them even after they terrified her by jumping in the water and swimming around 😂😂😂 The other was named Boo, another beautiful sweet bird. Always happy, healthy, unproblematic. They are greatly missed.

[@adyscript]

Your chicken videos bring me so much joy 😂😊 i hope you feel better soon. We need to rest sometimes. A couple name suggestions in order of appearance: -Onyx or Midnight (my MIL’s black cat is named Sir Onyx so she can’t name her black hens Onyx too lol) -Savanna or Sahara -Jubilee -Opal Lots of other great suggestions here in the comments too!

[@carolpbarbalho]

My name suggestions: Black Australop - Nyx, (goddess of mysteries and the night), Luna, Noir… Buff Brahma - Beer (because it kind fits with butter, because of the color and because Brahma is a famous beer brand where I live lol) Jubilee Orpington - Polka (from Polka dots) Splash Lace W. - Scales

[@motogem1408]

I have some Easter Eggers which I just love and was excited to see what colors they would be and lay. Peaches, Khaleesi, Koko, and Belle. All have beautiful coloring which changes drastically from chick to hen. Then I have my Rhode Island Ruby Star. She has this iridescent blue and a deep red. My gorgeous Black Stars (Diamond and Gypsy). I also have a lavender Orpington (Pearl) that is just as beautiful as yours. Then my 3 Wyandotte's (Dyna, Matilda, and Vanè) 2 of them are very friendly and if you are just in their flight range they will be on your shoulders. My top layers are (1) Rhode Island and Black Star (2) Easter Eggers and (3) my Wyandotte's. Not always the best layers but do come through in the later parts of winter.

[@judyreynolds305]

Names for new chickens….Lovage, Minty, Umami, Flower! Love your hens along with gardening! Both my favorites for 64 years!

[@ephjay6t87]

I completely agree. I definitely recommend a variety. I've grown attached to Leghorns. They are fierce spider hunters and goofy. I didn't expect them to be so personable.

[@elizabethw696]

You have several breeds that I love! My uncle raises several different breeds, and my favorite chickens that he had when I was a kid were a black Australorp and a buff Orpington. Some name suggestions: 1) Soot for the black Austrolorp 2) Whopper for the Buff Brahma 3) Cosmos for the Royal Jubilee Wyandotte 4) Pinto for the Splash-Laced Wyandotte

[@spoonnwithsunshinehomestead]

Great looking flock 🥰 love their names

[@chrisfaller7422]

We are newbies but have 4 black australorps in our flock and they are by far the most shy of the flock. They really dont like to be held, however we have 2 blue australorps and a few buffs and a few leghorns and they are all super friendly and want to climb and perch on us. Enjoy! Enjoyed your video.

[@inelouw]

I'm looking into getting a couple of Welsumers, although I'm also trying to learn about local breeds that may not be well known. The main problem for me is that my chickens need to be able to weather very hot summers as well as cold winters! That poses a few challenges, both to the breeds I'm interested in and the design of the coop.

[@fluffymims9772]

Fans help for summer heat and a couple of heat lamps help in the cold. Insulate the coop- but keep some airflow. Deep bedding worked best for me and by far the easiest to maintain!

[@ondineteschen901]

Beautiful birds. We have both the Australorps and Cream Leg Bars. Our Australorps are just super friendly and we have to watch where we walk in the coop because they will walk right among our feet. Our Cream Leg Bar does lay beautiful blue eggs.

[@jacqibelle]

Love your hens! Particularly your laced girls! We have a Blue Andalusian, a black jersey giant, and a couple Easter eggers :)