New Hampshire vs Rhode Island Red

[BonnieBlue]

Hi all! I will be adding to my flock in a couple of months, and I am trying to narrow down what breeds I want to add. At this time, I have two Easter Eggers. I was originally thinking Rhode Island Red, since that is what my father had, but the more I read about New Hampshire, it seems like a nice breed. Lots of eggs, nice temperament.

Does anyone have experience of having both, and can you tell me pros and cons you have seen? Everything I am reading says NH are more docile, but everyone I know with Rhodies loves them.

I will not be free ranging. I will have a 16x60 covered run. They will be strictly for eggs. No meat birds planned for the next few years. Will likely add a couple of Leghorns, and another couple of Easter Eggers and a Welsummer next year.

Thoughts?

 

[Hillbilly Hen]

I've had both but the New Hampshire were my favorite.

 

[BonnieBlue]

I've had both but the New Hampshire were my favorite.

Thanks. I really was leaning towards the RIR's, just because of my father, but the more I read about NH's, the more intriguing they become.

 

[Hillbilly Hen]

Thanks. I really was leaning towards the RIR's, just because of my father, but the more I read about NH's, the more intriguing they become

I can understand that. I always have to have some barred rocks in my flock because they remind me of my Ma. She always had barred rocks.
My avatar is the new Hampshire rooster I used to have. He was so friendly. The hens were friendly also. I didn't care so much for the RIR as they weren't very friendly. I also think the New Hampshire is a prettier chicken.

 

[MountainWoman73]

I agree. New Hampshire reds are my favorite. Prettier color, and nicer. I have one NH hen now named Pretty Ivy.

 

[AntiqueB]

I have an RIR. She is youngest, and lowest in pecking order. She is not friendly, but I fault myself for not spending a lot of time with her when she was young (I got her as a pullet).

She's been my star layer, though. She rarely skips a day, and didn't stop all through winter. None of my other girls ever did that!

She does appreciate free ranging a bit, but easily comes when called. I wouldn't say she's unhappy in the run, just prefers to be out.

 

[BonnieBlue]

Thank you all for the replies. Some really good info to make my decision on.

Are all of you with NH's happy with their egg production?

I really want friendly and docile breeds. I know the leghorns won't be, but I would like to have a couple of heavy white layers. But that won't be till the following years round.

 

[Hillbilly Hen]

If I recall correctly, they were really good layers.

 

[Hillbilly Hen]

The heritage German New Hampshire I used to have...