Chicken Breed Selector

Check out the many chicken breeds available for your backyard flock!

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Ameraucana
Aseel
Austra White
Australorp
Barnevelder
Bielefelder
Black Cochin Standard Chicken
Brahma
Breed 1
Buckeye
Chantecler
Cinnamon Queen
Cochin
Cornish
Cubalaya
D`uccle
Delaware
Dominique
Easter Egger
Faverolles
Fayoumi
Hamburg
Houdan
Japanese Bantam
Jersey Giant
Jungle Fowl
Lakenvelder
Legbar
Leghorn
Light Brahma
Marans
New Hampshire
Old English Game
Olive Egger
Orpington
Phoenix
Plymouth Rock
Polish
Rhode Island
Rosecomb Bantam
Rouen
Sebright
Sex Link
Silkie
Spitzhauben
Sultan
Sumatra
Sussex
Welsummer
Wyandotte
Yokohama
Cornish Bantams (TEST) Cornish Bantams (TEST)
Cornish Bantams (TEST)
The Cornish Bantam is a docile yet stout bantam chicken with a muscular build, short, wide-set legs, and a broad breast. Ideal for both meat and exhibition, these bantams are also good broodies and come in 8 APA-recognized color varieties.
Docile
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Meat Bird
Broody
Ginger Red Old English Game Bantam Ginger Red Old English Game Bantam Ginger Red Old English Game Bantam
Ginger Red Old English Game Bantam
The Ginger Red Old English Bantam is a captivating and low-maintenance chicken breed, perfect for families and hobbyists alike. Renowned for its striking appearance and friendly demeanor, this Bantam requires minimal space and integrates well with other chickens. Whether you're...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Black Standard Old English
Black Standard Old English
The Black Old English Standard is an ancient breed with Victorian roots, known for its striking black feathers, hardiness, and excellent predator awareness, making it a perfect backyard addition. Bred by Chicken Coop Company for nearly 40 years, it’s a...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Multi-Colored Eggs
Bantam Breeds
Broody
Welsh Harlequin Ducks Welsh Harlequin Ducks
Welsh Harlequin Ducks
The Welsh Harlequin duck is a productive and friendly breed, known for its egg-laying abilities and foraging skills. Developed in Wales, this breed is excellent for backyard flocks and can lay up to 300 eggs per year, with sexing possible...
High Egg Production
Docile
Large Eggs
Cold Hardy
Egg / Meat Bird
Multi-Colored Eggs
Rare Breeds
Broody
Cornish Bantams Cornish Bantams
Cornish Bantams
The Cornish Bantam is a docile yet stout bantam chicken with a muscular build, short, wide-set legs, and a broad breast. Ideal for both meat and exhibition, these bantams are also good broodies and come in 8 APA-recognized color varieties.
Docile
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Meat Bird
Broody
Splash Rosecomb Bantam Splash Rosecomb Bantam
Splash Rosecomb Bantam
The Splash Rosecomb Bantam is a rare, true miniature chicken with a striking white and black feather pattern. Known for its beauty and gentle nature, this bantam is an ideal choice for shows and adds a unique touch to any...
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Rare Breeds
Multi-Colored Eggs
Blue Rosecomb Bantam Blue Rosecomb Bantam Blue Rosecomb Bantam
Blue Rosecomb Bantam
The Blue Rosecomb Bantam is a stunning true miniature chicken with blue feathers and large white earlobes. Recognized for its elegance and show-worthy qualities, this bantam is a spirited, proud bird perfect for poultry enthusiasts.
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Rare Breeds
Multi-Colored Eggs
Black Rosecomb Bantam Black Rosecomb Bantam
Black Rosecomb Bantam
The Black Rosecomb Bantam is a true miniature chicken with striking black feathers, a red rose comb, and white earlobes. Gentle yet proud, this bantam is ideal for shows and enjoys flying, making it a standout addition to any flock.
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Rare Breeds
Multi-Colored Eggs
Dominique Bantam Dominique Bantam
Dominique Bantam
The Dominique Bantam is a calm, friendly bantam chicken with a rose comb and attractive barred feathers, similar to its standard-sized counterpart. Recognized in 1960, it’s perfect for backyard flocks, laying plenty of eggs and thriving as a show or...
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Brown Eggs
Rare Breeds
Buff Orpington Bantam Buff Orpington Bantam
Buff Orpington Bantam
The Buff Orpington Bantam is a small, friendly chicken known for its egg production and adaptability. With a gentle temperament and cold-weather resilience, this bantam is a great addition to any backyard flock, whether free-range or in confinement.
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Brown Eggs
High Egg Production
Easter Egger™ Bantam Easter Egger™ Bantam
Easter Egger™ Bantam
The Silver Sebright Bantam is a rare, true bantam breed with unique feathering and no standard-sized counterpart. Developed by John Sebright in the early 1800s and recognized in 1874, this beautiful bird is known for its lack of sickle feathers...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Multi-Colored Eggs
Silver Sebright Bantam Silver Sebright Bantam
Silver Sebright Bantam
The Silver Sebright Bantam is a rare, true bantam breed with unique feathering and no standard-sized counterpart. Developed by John Sebright in the early 1800s and recognized in 1874, this beautiful bird is known for its lack of sickle feathers...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Multi-Colored Eggs
Golden Sebright Bantam Golden Sebright Bantam
Golden Sebright Bantam
The Golden Sebright Bantam is a striking miniature chicken, recognized for its unique lack of sickle feathers in males and lively personality. Perfect as a show bird, this breed was first developed in England and recognized in 1874, bringing elegance...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
White Old English Game Bantam White Old English Game Bantam
White Old English Game Bantam
The White Old English Bantam is a beautiful, miniature game chicken with pure white feathers and classic Old English traits. Perfect for both pets and shows, these bantams are easy to care for and require minimal space, making them ideal...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Wheaten Old English Game Bantam Wheaten Old English Game Bantam
Wheaten Old English Game Bantam
The Wheaten Old English Bantam is a popular miniature breed with beautiful brown and black feathers. Recognized by the American Standard of Perfection, this tame and easy-to-care-for bantam is perfect for showing or as a friendly addition to any small...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Spangled Old English Game Bantam Spangled Old English Game Bantam
Spangled Old English Game Bantam
The Spangled Old English Bantam is a beautiful, show-quality bantam with a mix of striking feather colors. Recognized by the American Standard of Perfection, this breed makes an ideal show bird or pet due to its friendly nature and manageable...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Silver Duckwing Old English Game Bantam Silver Duckwing Old English Game Bantam
Silver Duckwing Old English Game Bantam
The Silver Duckwing Old English Bantam is a beautiful, spirited bantam chicken with an elegant feather pattern. Known for its tame nature, this breed is ideal for families, shows, or as a charming pet in small flocks.
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Self Blue Old English Game Bantam Self Blue Old English Game Bantam Self Blue Old English Game Bantam
Self Blue Old English Game Bantam
The Self Blue Old English Bantam is a beautiful, tame bantam chicken with striking blue feathers. Requiring minimal space and feed, this easy-care breed is popular at poultry shows and is a great choice for families or small flocks.
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Red Pyle Old English Game Bantam
Red Pyle Old English Game Bantam
The Red Pyle Old English Bantam is a docile and beautiful miniature chicken with red and white feathers. Known for its friendly temperament, this bantam makes a great pet and an impressive show bird, adding charm to any flock.
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Crele Old English Game Bantam Crele Old English Game Bantam
Crele Old English Game Bantam
The Crele Old English Bantam is a small, colorful chicken known for its gentle nature and unique feather pattern. This bantam variety requires little space and feed, making it an excellent choice for show, as a pet, or as part...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Brown Red Old English Game Bantam Brown Red Old English Game Bantam
Brown Red Old English Game Bantam
The Brown Red Old English Bantam is a beautiful, tame bantam chicken with stunning feathers, recognized by the American Standard of Perfection. Requiring little feed and space, this gentle bird is ideal for pets, small flocks, or show purposes.
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Brassy Back Old English Game Bantam Brassy Back Old English Game Bantam Brassy Back Old English Game Bantam
Brassy Back Old English Game Bantam
The Brassy Back Old English Bantam is a miniature breed with striking black and gold feathers, known for its friendly nature and low space requirements. Ideal for shows and as pets, these bantams make a charming addition to any flock.
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Blue Old English Game Bantam
Blue Old English Game Bantam
The Blue Old English Bantam is a beautiful, calm Bantam chicken with blue-tinted feathers, perfect for families and great for exhibitions. Recognized in the American Standard of Perfection, this breed is a stunning and friendly addition to any flock.
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Black Old English Game Bantam Black Old English Game Bantam
Black Old English Game Bantam
The Black Old English Bantam is a miniaturized, show-quality chicken with sleek black feathers, known for its gentle temperament and suitability as a family-friendly pet. Recognized in the American Standard of Perfection, this bantam is easy to handle and a...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Barred Old English Game Bantam Barred Old English Game Bantam Barred Old English Game Bantam
Barred Old English Game Bantam
The Barred Old English Game Bantam is a compact, low-maintenance bantam chicken with beautiful black and white spotted feathers. Known for their calm nature and easy care, they’re perfect for small spaces and make wonderful pets.
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Black Breasted Red Old English Game Bantam Black Breasted Red Old English Game Bantam
Black Breasted Red Old English Game Bantam
The Black Breasted Red Old English Bantam is a beautiful, small-sized breed with red and black feathers and a calm temperament. Ideal for shows or as pets, this bantam is a perfect addition to any flock.
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Japanese Bantam Special Japanese Bantam Special Japanese Bantam Special Japanese Bantam Special Japanese Bantam Special Japanese Bantam Special Japanese Bantam Special Japanese Bantam Special
Japanese Bantam Special
The Japanese Bantams Special Package includes a unique mix of small, colorful bantams in varieties like Black, Black Tailed Buff, Gray, and more. Each package offers a delightful surprise assortment, perfect for adding charm and variety to your flock.
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
White Japanese Bantam White Japanese Bantam White Japanese Bantam
White Japanese Bantam
The White Japanese Bantam is a charming, miniature breed known for its pure white feathers and prominent large comb. With origins in 1700s Japan, this bantam has been a recognized and beloved breed for over a century.
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Black Tailed White Japanese Bantam Black Tailed White Japanese Bantam
Black Tailed White Japanese Bantam
The Black-Tailed White Japanese Bantam is a petite, elegant breed from Japan with arched black tail feathers and ground-touching wings. Ideal as pets or show birds, they are easy to care for and thrive in small spaces.
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Black Tailed Buff Japanese Bantam
Black Tailed Buff Japanese Bantam
The Black Tailed Buff Japanese Bantam is a beautiful, historic bantam breed with arched tail feathers and short legs. Known for its friendly personality and striking appearance, this bantam is ideal for both pet and show purposes.
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Black Japanese Bantam Black Japanese Bantam
Black Japanese Bantam
The Black Japanese Bantam is a miniature breed with striking all-black feathers, large wings, and short legs. Ideal for both shows and as a friendly pet, this “must-have” bantam is available as baby chicks, ready to join your flock.
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Mottled Japanese Bantam Mottled Japanese Bantam
Mottled Japanese Bantam
The Mottled Japanese Bantam is a beautiful, historic breed with black feathers, a large comb, and distinctive ground-touching wings. Ideal as a pet or show bird, this bantam brings a touch of elegance and heritage to any flock.
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Gray Japanese Bantam Gray Japanese Bantam
Gray Japanese Bantam
The Gray Japanese Bantam is a small, charming chicken with gray and black feathering, short legs, and a prominent comb. Known for being low-maintenance and friendly, this bantam is a perfect choice for small spaces and makes a delightful pet.
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Wheaten Cubalaya Bantam Wheaten Cubalaya Bantam
Wheaten Cubalaya Bantam
The Wheaten Cubalaya Bantam is a rare, Cuban-origin bantam breed with a distinctive low-carried tail. Available only as baby chicks, these birds are a prized, hard-to-find addition to any flock.
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Black Breasted Red Cubalaya Bantam Black Breasted Red Cubalaya Bantam
Black Breasted Red Cubalaya Bantam
The Black Breasted Red Cubalaya Bantam is a rare, show-quality bantam with black and red feathers, a pea comb, and a low-carried tail—recognized in 1960 for its unique look.
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Silkie Bantam Special Silkie Bantam Special
Silkie Bantam Special
The Silkie Bantam Surplus Package offers a selection of charming Silkie Bantams in a variety of potential colors, including White, Black, Blue, Buff, and Splash. Known for their gentle nature, Silkies make a unique and beautiful addition to any flock,...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
White Silkie Bantam
White Silkie Bantam
The Splash Bearded Silkie Bantam is a rare, gentle bantam with pale plumage and dark patches, ideal for shows and as a family-friendly pet. Known for its brooding skills, this Silkie can even raise chicks from other breeds, making it...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Splash Silkie Bantam
Splash Silkie Bantam
The Splash Bearded Silkie Bantam is a rare, gentle bantam with pale plumage and dark patches, ideal for shows and as a family-friendly pet. Known for its brooding skills, this Silkie can even raise chicks from other breeds, making it...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Buff Silkie Bantam Buff Silkie Bantam
Buff Silkie Bantam
The Blue Silkie Bantam is a lovable and gentle bantam with soft, fluffy feathers that feel like fur. Known for their affectionate nature and calm, soothing sounds, Silkies make excellent family pets and come in a variety of colors, including...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Blue Silkie Bantam
Blue Silkie Bantam
The Blue Silkie Bantam is a lovable and gentle bantam with soft, fluffy feathers that feel like fur. Known for their affectionate nature and calm, soothing sounds, Silkies make excellent family pets and come in a variety of colors, including...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Black Silkie Bantam Black Silkie Bantam
Black Silkie Bantam
The Black Bearded Silkie Bantam is a rare, affectionate bantam breed with soft, fur-like feathers, turquoise earlobes, and a deep purple comb. Known for their gentle temperament, these Silkies make excellent pets and are exceptional at brooding, often hatching and...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Porcelain d’Uccles Bantam Porcelain d’Uccles Bantam
Porcelain d’Uccles Bantam
The Porcelain d’Uccle Bantam is a rare and elegant true bantam with feathered legs, muffs, and a full beard. Known for its gentle temperament and show-quality looks, this bantam is perfect for both exhibitions and as a delightful addition to...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
Mille Fleur d’Uccles Bantam Mille Fleur d’Uccles Bantam
Mille Fleur d’Uccles Bantam
The Mille Fleur d’Uccle Bantam is a unique and beautiful true bantam breed with booted legs and a full beard. Known for its gentle temperament and stunning feather pattern, this bantam is perfect for enthusiasts and families alike, adding charm...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
White Cochin Bantam White Cochin Bantam
White Cochin Bantam
The White Cochin Bantam is a small, gentle chicken with fluffy white feathers that cover its body and legs. Known for its show quality and friendly nature, this bantam is ideal for families, exhibitions, and as a brooding mother in...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Brown Eggs
Silver Penciled Cochin Bantam Silver Penciled Cochin Bantam Silver Penciled Cochin Bantam
Silver Penciled Cochin Bantam
The Silver Penciled Cochin Bantam is a calm and friendly chicken with beautiful black and silver feathering, perfect for pets, brooders, or show birds. Known for their fluffy appearance and gentle nature, they’re an ideal addition to any flock.
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Brown Eggs
Red Cochin Bantam Red Cochin Bantam Red Cochin Bantam
Red Cochin Bantam
The Red Cochin Bantam is a small, friendly chicken with striking red feathers on its body, legs, and feet. Known for its docile temperament and excellent brooding skills, this bantam makes a perfect addition to any backyard flock, providing both...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Brown Eggs
Partridge Cochin Bantam Partridge Cochin Bantam Partridge Cochin Bantam
Partridge Cochin Bantam
The Partridge Cochin Bantam is a charming, miniature chicken with a beautifully intricate feather pattern from head to feet. Known for its gentle temperament, it makes a perfect pet and show bird and is a wonderful mother for raising chicks...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Brown Eggs
Black Cochin Bantams Black Cochin Bantams
Black Cochin Bantams
The Black Cochin Bantam from Chicken Coop Company is a gentle, kid-friendly bantam chicken with beautiful black feathers. Known for its calm temperament and excellent brooding abilities, this bantam is perfect for families and a great choice for those looking...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Brown Eggs
Buff Cochin Bantam Buff Cochin Bantam Buff Cochin Bantam
Buff Cochin Bantam
The Buff Cochin Bantam is a small, friendly chicken known for its fluffy feathering and beautiful buff coloring. With its gentle nature and feathered legs, this miniature Cochin is ideal as a pet or a brooding hen, adding both beauty...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Brown Eggs
Splash Cochin Bantam Splash Cochin Bantam
Splash Cochin Bantam
The Splash Cochin Bantam is a beautiful, small-sized chicken with distinctive white and black feathering. Known for its docile and friendly temperament, this bantam variety is perfect for families, hobbyists, and anyone looking to add a tame, low-maintenance bird to...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Brown Eggs
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High Egg Production

Bantams are small, cute, and come in all different breeds and colors! They are a fun addition to any backyard flock and their small size means they eat less, poop less, and require less space than a standard size chicken. However, it’s best to learn all about raising and caring for these mini chickens before deciding to add them to your backyard flock.

Brown Eggs

Brown egg-laying chickens, like the popular Rhode Island Red and Barred Plymouth Rock, are a favorite among backyard poultry enthusiasts and commercial farmers alike. These breeds are known not just for their rich, brown eggs but also for their hardy nature and amiable personalities. Brown egg layers often boast a gentle temperament, making them a joy to raise, especially for families with children. Whether you're an aspiring urban homesteader or an experienced farmer, these chickens offer a delightful blend of productivity and companionship.

White Eggs

White egg-laying chickens, known for their prolific egg production, are a staple in many backyard coops. Breeds like the Leghorn are particularly admired for their efficiency, often producing up to 280-320 eggs annually. These birds are not only valued for their productivity but also for their relatively low feed consumption, making them an economical choice for small and large-scale egg producers alike. With their sleek white feathers and active demeanor, they adapt well to various environments, from free-range setups to more confined spaces. For those passionate about sustainable farming or just looking to enjoy fresh eggs daily, white egg layers offer a reliable and rewarding experience.

Multi-Colored Eggs

Colored egg layers are fun to have as you never know quite what color of beautiful eggs you will get. These unique breeds, like the Ameraucana, Marans, and Easter Egger, are known for their vibrant egg shells that range from shades of blue and green to deep chocolate brown. Not only do these eggs add a splash of color to your breakfast table, but they also indicate the genetic diversity and health of the hens themselves. Imagine collecting a rainbow of eggs straight from your backyard coop—each egg a delightful surprise. These extraordinary chickens make for lively conversation starters and add a whimsical touch to any homestead. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or a curious newbie, colorful egg layers will bring joy and variety to your flock.

Large Eggs

If you’re a backyard chicken family looking to maximize your egg production with larger eggs, consider adding breeds like the Australorp, Sussex, or Rhode Island Red to your flock. These hens are known for consistently laying large, delicious eggs that make breakfast a delight and baking a breeze. Not only do these breeds excel in egg size and quantity, but they are also hardy and adaptable, making them ideal for various climates and care levels. Whether you're new to raising chickens or a seasoned pro, these large egg layers will bring both joy and productivity to your backyard flock.

Meat Bird

Raising chickens for meat, also known as broilers, can be an incredibly rewarding experience for backyard farmers. Unlike their egg-laying counterparts, broilers are specifically bred for rapid growth and a higher meat yield. Typically, these chickens reach market weight in just 6-8 weeks. Popular breeds like Cornish Cross and Red Rangers offer different advantages, from faster growth rates to more robust health. Providing them with a well-balanced diet, ample space to roam, and proper care will ensure they thrive and produce tender, flavorful meat. Whether you're interested in sustainable living or simply want to enjoy homegrown poultry, raising meat chickens allows you to take control of your food source and savor the fruits of your labor.

Egg / Meat Bird

Dual-purpose chicken breeds are often referred to as “BBQ Special” chickens which are prized for their versatility in both egg production and meat quality. Breeds such as the Cornish, New Hampshire or Norfolk Grey would be three examples. How great is it to get eggs and then be able to have chicken for dinner? Bon appetit!

Cold Hardy

If you live in a cold climate cold-hardy chickens are your best bet! These resilient birds, like the Buff Orpington and Rhode Island Red, thrive in chilly climates, thanks to their thick plumage and robust health. Not only do they keep laying eggs when temperatures drop (not as quickly mind you), but they're also known for their friendly and docile nature, making them ideal for having as backyard chickens.

Broody

When a hen goes broody, she instinctively wants to sit on eggs and hatch them, which can be a natural way to expand your flock without needing an incubator. Watch out as she becomes aggressive in defending the eggs. It’s fascinating to watch her dedicatedly turn the eggs and cluck softly to them. However, a broody hen can sometimes become territorial and may stop laying new eggs, focusing solely on her current brood. To manage a broody hen, ensure she has a comfortable, safe nesting area and consider separating her from other chickens to reduce stress.

Docile

A docile chicken is one that's calm, friendly, and easy to handle, making it perfect for backyard flocks. These chickens are known for their gentle nature, which makes them great companions for families and novice chicken owners. Breeds like the Buff Orpington, Silkie, and Australorp are renowned for their docile temperament. Not only do they provide a steady supply of fresh eggs, but their easygoing personalities also make them a joy to watch and interact with in your backyard.

Top Picks

These are our top picks for backyard chicken owners. They have the best combination of egg production, temperament, and hardiness to make your backyard chicken-raising adventures thrive.

Small Chickens

Raising small chickens can be a ton of fun for backyard chicken farmers. These miniature cluckers, often referred to as bantams, are perfect for small spaces, offering the charm and productivity of larger breeds without the need for large coops or runs. They're not only easier to handle due to their size, but they also lay adorable, small eggs that are just as delicious. With their vibrant personalities and diverse feather patterns, small chickens add a unique touch to any backyard chicken-raising adventure, making them both a practical and aesthetically pleasing choice.

Large Chickens

Large chickens can be a wonderful addition to your backyard flock! These gentle giants, such as Brahmas and Orpingtons, are known not only for their impressive size but also for their friendly and docile nature. Their larger bodies mean they tend to lay bigger eggs, providing you with a more substantial breakfast. Plus, with their fluffy feathers and calm demeanor, they make great pets for families and can easily become the centerpiece of your chicken coop.

Bantam Breeds

Bantam breeds are perfect for backyard chicken owners looking to add a touch of charm to their flocks. These miniature chickens, which are about half the size of standard breeds, boast a variety of vibrant feather patterns and friendly personalities. Not only do they require less space and feed, but their smaller eggs are also a delightful addition to any breakfast table. Whether you're a seasoned backyard chicken owner or just starting, bantams can provide a unique and rewarding experience.

Rare Breeds

If you're a backyard chicken owner looking to add a unique touch to your flock, consider rare chicken breeds. The Ayam Cemani, known for its striking all-black appearance, not only looks exotic but also carries a mystical allure. Meanwhile, the Swedish Flower Hen offers a burst of color with its naturally vibrant plumage, making your coop look like a living bouquet. And let's not forget the charming Cream Legbar, famous for laying beautiful blue eggs and being incredibly friendly. These rare breeds not only enhance the visual appeal of your backyard but also contribute to the genetic diversity of your flock. Ready to explore more? Discover how these fascinating birds can make your chicken-keeping experience truly extraordinary!