loubielou Posted April 7, 2009 Share Posted April 7, 2009 I've found a breeder who has a Faverolles and light sussex for me, but wants to know whether I want a RIR or a Maran to make the 3rd hen. Trouble is, I don't know! Anyone care to give me their opinion? (btw, I am a novice keeper, have a smallish garden and 2 small boys, if thats any help! ) Thanks Lou Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Redwing Posted April 7, 2009 Share Posted April 7, 2009 I don't think either of those are very flighty so I am not sure it would make a huge difference what you went for The RIR is a bird that has been crossed to produce the standard brown hybrid hen which tends to be a very good layer The Maran usually will produce a very dark brown egg which is a bit different Good luck with your choice! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
feemcg Posted April 7, 2009 Share Posted April 7, 2009 I am totally biased......love my Marans, very friendly and good layers. The RIR, if crossed with something like a Light Sussex is a hybrid (as in a Gingernut) and can be a good layer, but a pure RIR may not be such a good layer (like any pure bred hen). Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Egluntyne Posted April 8, 2009 Share Posted April 8, 2009 I'd go for the Maran, purely for the gorgeous chocolate coloured eggs. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
wiblick Posted April 8, 2009 Share Posted April 8, 2009 A vote here for Maran as well, such unusual eggs. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
loubielou Posted April 8, 2009 Author Share Posted April 8, 2009 Oooh, looks like the vote is swinging towards a Maran. Any more votes? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Falkor Posted April 8, 2009 Share Posted April 8, 2009 **holds arm up** Another vote for the maran here! I would love some of those dark brown eggs Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
chelsea Posted April 8, 2009 Share Posted April 8, 2009 me too for Marans - Our Maran was our cheapest hen (£14!) she's never been broody, never been ill (not even slightly) *touches wood* and is our most reliable layer. They are very hardy birds. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
