Rhode island Reds are a popular dual bird. Meaning they produce large brown quality eggs and a fine tasting meat. They are also one of the oldest breeds developed in America and make the perfect urban pet that can eventually be eaten, but doesn’t necessarily have to be. Many people find that raising chickens as pets is not only fun, they keep the insects away as well as fertilize their garden.
Rhode Island Red Chickens
Reds can survive in hot and cold weather which make them prime pickings across the nation for the urban chicken farmer. They are early to mature which means faster egg production for the family and if handled correctly from birth, they can be very calm birds. This is a must for the urban farmer who has some little helpers excited to learn about raising a small chicken flock. Male Reds are an average 8.5 lbw and females average 6.5 pounds.
Perfect for the smaller handlers in the family. Most Reds will continue to lay eggs throughout the winter whereas other breeds slow production during the cold months. There are many urban farmers adding Reds to their flocks. Check out thepioneerway.com and take a look at some new hatchlings and follow their progress on the farm. There are some great tips on hatching chickens and videos catching the chicks hatch from their eggs inside an incubator.
Rhode Island Reds, a favorite among chicken breeds
Reds produce exceptional large brown eggs to begin with. It’s no wonder they are so popular. But if cared for correctly, these chickens can provide a family with the best tasting eggs on the block! If fed a variety of hardy greens and are left to roam to eat grass and insects, the eggs produced will be hard to resist. Store bought eggs will never compare.
Getting started is easy. Just make sure the regulations in the local area allow for back yard coops. Picking a coop design is a personal choice. But all coops should help keep a flock protected from predators, provide shelter from the elements as well as decreasing the likelihood of injury and theft. There are many great resources and guides on the web as well as books published to help take on the task of keeping chickens in an urban setting. Take a look at www.keepchickens.info for just a taste of what these birds will provide to a family and what it takes to keep them safe and healthy with tips and videos to help a beginner get started.
References
- http://www.raising-chickens.org/rhode-island-reds.html
- http://bloslspoutlryfarm.tripod.com/id29.html
- http://www.keepchickens.info/getting-started/housing/
- http://thepioneerway.com/farming/hens-urban-farm/