Raising chickens can be a fun and rewarding journey, especially for those who love the idea of fresh eggs and friendly feathered friends. If you’re new to poultry keeping, picking the right breed from the start will help ensure a positive and enjoyable experience.
Some chicken breeds are perfect for beginners thanks to their gentle temperament, hardiness, and easy-care needs. Exploring these beginner-friendly options helps new chicken keepers find the right additions for their backyard flock, setting the stage for a smooth and enjoyable poultry-keeping experience.
1. Cornish Giants
These birds are known for their excellent feed-to-meat ratio—about 1 pound of meat per 2 pounds of feed. Hens develop breast meat quickly, while roosters focus on growing bone structure first and then filling out. Either way, they both provide high-quality meat and are specifically bred for the table (so they’re not ideal layers).
Feeding Recommendations:
For feeding, start them on a 20–23% protein chick starter (medicated unless they’ve been vaccinated against coccidiosis) from day one to week three. After that, transition them to a 16–18% chick grower, mixing the two feeds gradually over a week. You can switch to a finisher or homemade mix for the last two weeks before processing—just be sure they’re off any medications for those final two weeks.
2. Miller Brown
These hybrid layers are known for producing around 320 eggs within a 52-week period. They’re calm, docile birds that lay large, rich-brown eggs with sturdy shells. Hens typically have red plumage and can reach about 4 pounds in live weight, while roosters are mostly white to buff and can grow to around 5½ pounds. Roosters also serve as a decent meat option—just be sure to butcher them by 16 weeks to avoid tough meat.
Feeding Recommendations:
For best results, provide a chick starter for the first 8 full weeks, then transition to a grower feed until the hens lay their first egg. After that, switch to an 18% protein layer ration to help prevent egg eating and cannibalism. This feeding regimen ensures the birds stay healthy and productive.
3. White Leghorn
These are North America’s most popular hybrid layers of white eggs, known for their exceptional shell quality and productive laying ability—whether raised in cages or on the floor. With the best feed conversion in the industry, White Leghorns are a highly efficient choice for egg production. Despite their reputation, this particular strain is surprisingly calm.
Feeding Recommendations:
From day one to about eight weeks, feed a high-protein (20–22%) chick starter to support rapid growth. Gradually transition to a grower feed (16–18% protein) until they begin laying, usually around 16–18 weeks of age. After that, switch to a quality layer ration (approximately 16% protein) and consider offering free-choice oyster shell to support strong eggshell production. Remember to provide fresh water at all times for optimal health.
4. Miller Red Sussex Cross
This heavy-breed cross offers hybrid vigor, early maturity, reliable egg production, and a large body size. Expect lighter brown, medium-sized eggs, and a quiet, pleasant temperament—hens resemble Rhode Island Reds, while cockerels look similar to Columbian Rocks with a touch of red. Cockerels often exceed 6½ pounds and hens around 5½ pounds. For tender meat, plan to butcher by 16 weeks, before they reach maturity. Overall, Miller’s Red Sussex Cross birds are docile, hardy, and easy to care for.
Feeding Recommendations:
- Chick Stage (0–8 weeks): Provide a high-protein chick starter (20–22% protein).
- Grower Stage (8 weeks until laying or butchering): Transition to a 16–18% grower feed.
- For Egg Production: Once hens begin laying, switch to a quality layer ration (approximately 16% protein).
- For Meat Production: If raising cockerels for meat, keep them on grower or a finisher feed until about 16 weeks, ensuring they are medication-free for at least two weeks before processing.
Always ensure access to clean water and consider free-choice grit or oyster shell for laying birds.
5. Rhode Island Red
With their rich, brown plumage and calm temperament, Rhode Island Reds are wonderful dual-purpose birds, prized for both meat and eggs. Hens are notably hardy and continue to lay a good number of dark brown eggs even through winter, while roosters offer tasty, lean meat.
Feeding Recommendations:
- Chick Stage (0–8 weeks): Offer a high-protein (20–22%) chick starter.
- Grower Stage (8 weeks until laying or butchering): Transition to a 16–18% grower feed.
- For Egg Production: Once hens begin laying, move to a quality layer ration (about 16% protein) and offer supplemental calcium (e.g., oyster shell) for strong eggshells.
- For Meat Production: If raising roosters for the table, continue them on grower or a finishing feed until processing, making sure to follow any medication withdrawal times.
- Additional Tips: Always provide fresh water and, if needed, free-choice grit for proper digestion.
Importance Of Breed Selection
Choosing the right breed for your backyard flock isn’t just about picking the prettiest bird—your decision can impact everything from egg production to meat quality, feeding requirements, and overall enjoyment. Some breeds are bred primarily for table fare, boasting fast growth and efficient feed conversion, while others are reliable egg producers with calm, friendly dispositions. There are also well-rounded, dual-purpose breeds that offer a balance of both meat and eggs.
By understanding each breed’s temperament, climate tolerance, growth rate, and nutritional needs, you’ll be better equipped to select birds that fit your goals—whether that’s filling egg cartons, putting homegrown meat on the table, or simply enjoying the companionship of a friendly flock. Investing the time to choose breeds wisely sets the stage for a successful, stress-free poultry-keeping experience.
Have More Questions? See Below Or Reach Out To The Team At Purity Feed!
How many chickens should I start with?
A good starting number is three to six hens, as they are social birds that thrive in small flocks. This range gives you enough eggs for a typical family, while keeping the workload manageable.
Do I need a rooster for my hens to lay eggs?
No. Hens lay eggs whether or not a rooster is present. Roosters are only necessary if you want fertilized eggs for hatching.
What’s the best way to feed different age groups in one flock?
Ideally, house young chicks separately until they can transition to the same feed as adult birds. If mixing ages can’t be avoided, provide a grower feed suitable for younger birds and supply adult hens with supplemental calcium (like oyster shell) in a separate dish.
How soon can I let my chicks outside?
Typically, chicks need to be fully feathered (around 6–8 weeks) before being exposed to outdoor temperatures. Gradually introduce them to the coop and the outdoors on mild days to help them acclimate.
What if I’m raising meat birds and egg layers together?
Meat birds typically require a higher protein diet for rapid growth, while layers need a balanced layer ration to support egg production. If raised together, feed a higher-protein grower feed and supplement layers with free-choice calcium. Be mindful of different finishing times: meat birds are usually processed earlier than layers start laying.
Can I raise chickens in a cold climate?
Many breeds are hardy in colder climates, especially heavy or dual-purpose breeds. Ensure the coop is well-insulated, free from drafts, and provides adequate ventilation. Use a safe heat source only if absolutely necessary, and keep water from freezing with heated waterers or frequent checks.
When should I butcher my meat birds for the best taste and texture?
Most meat-specific or dual-purpose cockerels should be processed by 16 weeks to avoid tough meat. Check breed guidelines—some slower-growing heritage breeds may benefit from slightly longer grow-out times, but going too long can lead to tougher meat.
How do I store or handle eggs safely?
Collect eggs daily and wipe them clean if needed (avoid washing if possible, to preserve the bloom). Keep them in the refrigerator, or in a cool location if refrigeration isn’t available. Always use good hygiene practices, washing your hands after handling eggs or chickens.