Backyard Fowl Keepers

Im getting six chicks this spring but cant decide between Buff Orpingtons and Black Australorps. I want friendly, heat-tolerant birds. Orpingtons are super sweet but struggle with heat, while Australorps are friendly and handle heat better. My boyfriend says to get three of each, but Id prefer just one breed. Which do you prefer and why?

It sounds like your setup is well-prepared for heat management, so Orpingtons could still work. They love attention and are great for families. However, Australorps are more resilient, lay more consistently, and require less special care in hot weather. Either breed will fit nicely in your flock, but if heat is a major concern, Australorps might be the safer choice.

Orpingtons will be your best bet for a cuddly, friendly flock. They do need some extra heat protection, but it sounds like you've already planned for that!

ChickWrangler wrote: Sun Feb 16, 2025 10:50 am Im getting six chicks this spring but cant decide between Buff Orpingtons and Black Australorps. I want friendly, heat-tolerant birds. Orpingtons are super sweet but struggle with heat, while Australorps are friendly and handle heat better. My boyfriend says to get three of each, but Id prefer just one breed. Which do you prefer and why?

If egg production is a top priority, Australorps tend to lay more consistently. They also handle heat well, so you might have fewer seasonal laying issues.

ChickWrangler wrote: Sun Feb 16, 2025 10:50 am Im getting six chicks this spring but cant decide between Buff Orpingtons and Black Australorps. I want friendly, heat-tolerant birds. Orpingtons are super sweet but struggle with heat, while Australorps are friendly and handle heat better. My boyfriend says to get three of each, but Id prefer just one breed. Which do you prefer and why?

Why not try three of each? You'll get the best of both worlds and can compare them yourself!

Australorps tend to be more active foragers, while Orpingtons are more laid-back. If you want a more hands-on experience with your flock, Orpingtons are perfect. If you prefer low-maintenance birds that still have good temperaments, Australorps win.

Black Australorps are fantastic layers and tolerate heat better than Orpingtons. They're friendly but not as clingy. If you want a low-maintenance, productive flock, they're a great choice. I've found they adjust well to different conditions and are generally hardy birds. If your summers get really hot, you may have fewer problems keeping Australorps comfortable compared to Orpingtons.

Buff Orpingtons are one of the friendliest breeds I've ever had. They love attention and follow me around like puppies. However, they do struggle in extreme heat. With plenty of shade, cool water, and frozen treats in summer, they should be fine. If you're looking for affectionate birds, Orpingtons are hard to beat. They also lay well and make excellent backyard pets.

If you want lap chickens, go Orpingtons. If you want hardy layers, Australorps. Your setup sounds great for either breed!

If I had to pick one, I'd go with Australorps. They're great layers, hardy in various climates, and still friendly enough to enjoy being around people.