fantasticjudyann Posted April 5, 2013 Share Posted April 5, 2013 I was planning to get 3 POL Orpingtons later this month to go with my Bluebelle and Speckledy. I decided on Orps because I wanted something docile that wouldn't mind being handled, so I could do thorough health checks on a regular basis and have plenty of cuddles. However I have just been reading that they like to free range a lot. I have a large WIR (5x4m) and because of foxes tend to keep my birds inside the run most of the time, although they will go out occasionally, in a covered netted area in the summer when we are in the garden. If I get Orps am I being unrealistic about keeping them in the WIR most of the time? I don't want them to be miserable Should I reconsider and get a different breed? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Daphne Posted April 5, 2013 Share Posted April 5, 2013 They will be fine Although all birds like to free range, orps really don't mind being confined, as long as there is enough space. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
miller30 Posted April 5, 2013 Share Posted April 5, 2013 I have orpingtons my chickens dont have a pen they just run but if your pen is large enough they should be fine the only thing i would think about is they do like to go broody and some can be quite vocal and just groan and moan all the time this doesnt bother me and they are lovely birds leanne Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Monty14 Posted April 6, 2013 Share Posted April 6, 2013 My Orp, Daisy, started off in a WIR but they now all free range. She was fine in there. I agree that they go broody at the drop of a hat - Daisy's record is 5 times in 1 year! She is very docile and easily handled and sounds like she's laughing at a joke most of the time. They do have a really long moult as well. Personally, I think Orps are lovely chickens and I'm glad I've got one. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
fantasticjudyann Posted April 6, 2013 Author Share Posted April 6, 2013 Thanks all Not too worried about my Orps going broody as I have two hybrids to keep the egg production going Having said that, my Speckledy was in and out of the broody cage in her first year like there was no tomorrow. She's two now and had laid ever since. Just didn't want the Orps to be miserable if confined, albeit in a large WIR. So I have high hopes. Wish me luck Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Daphne Posted April 6, 2013 Share Posted April 6, 2013 Good Luck Which colours are you interested in, or don't you mind? Not all LF go broody, so you might be lucky Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
