Hen stomping and squatting when I approach

[rosemarythyme]

But I like to discourage people to buy the laying hybrids if they want to enjoy having chickens.

Its always best to do a little homework before buying. There are so much differences in chicken breeds, mixes, and even laying hybrids. Its good to know a little of what you can expect in advance.

Personally I agree with this but I also have the caveat that I wanted pets first, eggs second (at this point it's almost eggs third... the compost is now second). So I deliberately choose decorative breeds or breeds that are known for slower maturation or lower laying rates.

But I also understand that some folks are in this for eggs, so that means looking for birds that fit that need.