Sooo much pooping

[hunkydoory]

I fancy a move into the world of Bantam keeping I have an eglu clasic, the run opens out into a WIR (not fox proof so locked into eglu at night) the additional space is about 2m x 1.5m with a shady shrub, miniture apple tree and perching logs. So I think I've plenty of room for 4 to 6 but happy for any advice about the nesting box capacity.

 

I would like easy going, easy to tame birds who are happy with people as I have 2 children who do like to get hands on. Any suggestions about potential breeds? And finally I live in Abingdon (just south of Oxford) anyone know of good local breeders?

[Daphne]

I'd have a look online, something like feathersite, or in a book or go to a sale or a breeder with different varieties to see what takes your fancy. Pekins are always popular, good with children. Sussex and wyandottes are usually quite tameable, orps are softies, leghorns can be flighty, but really there's a whole world out there depending on your taste! I should think you could have 6 bantams with that extra WIR space, depending on the breed. I have 5 bants in an eglu and nest box queues aren't bad - there's often 2 in the box at the same time!

[frizz]

I agree, do some research as there are a lot to choose from. I chose Pekins as they are very friendly, especially if you get them young and spend time with them, also whilst they still like to dig, they do not destroy your plants as the feathered feet stop them, they are also very placid and if they need to stay in the run for any length of time, they are very content little birds. However, it really does depend on your own needs. Good luck with your search and be sure to put pics on when you get your birds.

[hunkydoory]

Thanks. I'm thinking more along the lines of 4. Concerned that 6 might be too noisy. Although the neighbours on both sides love the eggs ands have no complaint

 

My priority is not to end up with very timid or flighty birds. I'm not too bothered about looks but more about temprement (although looks and temp are a good combo). My boys are 9 and 15, they understand about the needs of the chicken but are both still very keen to have the chicks as beloved pets.

 

Any clear direction about which breeds to start looking at appreciated.

[Daphne]

As I say - there are lots of breeds to choose from; its a very personal choice and you would do well to look at them to see what appeals to you. Pekins are pretty and good with children. So are orps, sussex and dottes. And brahmas.

[Griffin]

Seven Acre Nursery in Standford in the Vale sell chickens. I haven't been there for a while so I'm not sure what breeds they've got at the moment. The garden centre at Millets Farm has started to sell chickens too, they had some really cute Pekins & Japanese bantams last week.