I live in Connecticut so of course I wanted to make a blog dedicated to selecting the ideal chickens for this region. I’ve chosen breeds that thrive in New England’s variable climate, doing well in both cold winters and hot summers. Ten years ago, I probably would have recommended breeds better suited for colder climates and milder summers, but the summers in Connecticut have been sweltering in recent years which has led me to adjust my recommendations. It’s a safer bet especially if you are a beginner to have chickens that will not struggle with huge variations in the weather. I don’t have pictures for all of them, but I will update as soon as I get them. My favorites on this list are the Easter Egger, Plymouth Rock and Swedish Flower Hen. They are hardy, so sweet, and their colors are very pretty. Here is my Connecticut list:
- Ameraucana
The Ameraucana is an American chicken breed known for being friendly, docile and curious. They are generally good-natured and enjoy human interaction which makes them great for families and backyard flocks.
- Eggs per year: 200-250
- Egg color: Blue
- Noise level: Quiet
- Colors: Black, Blue, Blue Wheaten, Brown Red, Buff, Silver, Wheaten, White.
2. Ameribella
This is a newer breed known for being friendly, calm and easy to handle. They adapt well to different environments and can be good around children.
- Eggs per year: about 250
- Egg color: Cream tinted
- Noise Level: Quiet
- Color: Black with some hints of red
3.Bielefelder
Bielefelders are a German breed of chickens. They are calm, friendly, and gentle. They are excellent foragers and good with children, making them a great option for families.
- Eggs per year: 230-280
- Egg color: Brown
- Noise level: Quiet
- Colors: Cream, Brown, Barred
4. Easter Egger
The Easter Egger is known for being friendly, hardy, and curious. They are often social and enjoy interacting with humans and other chickens. The one I had was so nosey and goofy. She would follow us around to see what we were doing. We all loved her.
- Eggs per year: 200-280
- Egg color: Blue, Green, Pink, Brown (varied)
- Noise level: Quiet
- Colors: Very wide variety due to hybrid nature
5. Legbar
Legbars are active, curious, and friendly. They are great foragers and can be quiet social. They enjoy human interaction and exploring their surroundings.
- Eggs per year: 180-200
- Egg color: Blue
- Noise level: Quiet
- Colors: Cream, Brown, Barred (the Cream Legbar is the most common)
6. Olive Egger
The Olive Egger chicken is friendly, curious, and generally docile. Their personality can vary because they are a hybrid breed. They are often good with families and other chickens.
- Eggs per year: 150-200
- Egg color: Olive green
- Noise level: quiet
- Colors: Wide variety due to hybrid nature
7. Plymouth Rock
Plymouth Rocks are an American breed of chicken first seen in Massachusetts. They are very calm, friendly, and hardy. They are excellent layers and good with children, making them a popular choice for backyard flocks. I have two Barred Plymouth Rocks who are about ten years old. They are so sweet and make the cutest noises.
- Eggs per year: 200-280
- Egg color: Brown
- Noise level: Quiet
- Colors: Barred, White, Buff, Blue, Partridge, Silver Penciled
8. Red Star
The Red Star chicken is friendly, docile, and easy to handle. They are known for their prolific egg laying, and they are generally good-natured and adaptable to various environments. I have a Red Star and she is very friendly and will nibble at your toes if you are wearing sandals.
- Eggs per year: 250-300
- Egg color: Brown
- Noise level: Quiet
- Colors: Red, Gold
9. Rhode Island Red
Rhode Island Reds are an active, hardy, and assertive breed of American chickens. They can be more dominant in mixed flocks but are great layers and can be friendly with proper handling. I wouldn’t get Rhode Island Reds again with a mixed flock. Mine bullied the less assertive hens. They were super friendly with people though and they were the leaders of the flock and would sound the alarm if there were any potential threats.
- Eggs per year: 250-300
- Egg color: Brown
- Noise level: Loud
- Colors: Dark Red, Mahogany,
10. Sumatra
The Sumatra originated from the island of Sumatra in Indonesia. It is active, alert, and somewhat flighty. They are more of an ornamental breed and can be less docile, preferring to free-range and roost in trees.
- Eggs per year: 100-120
- Egg color: White or Tinted
- Noise level: Quiet
- Colors: Black (with green sheen), Blue, White
11. Swedish Flower Hen (Blommehona)
This Swedish chicken was almost extinct at one point. Its recovery has grown slowly in Sweden and now in the U.S. It is friendly, hardy and adaptable. They are known for their gentle nature and ability to thrive in various climates, making them a good choice for diverse environments.
- Eggs per year: 150-200
- Egg color: Brown
- Noise level: quiet
- Colors: Speckled, Various colors (Mottled with white, black, red, blue)
12. Welsummer
This is a Dutch breed originating from the Netherlands. Welsummers are friendly, intelligent, and active. They are good foragers and are generally easy to handle, making them a good choice for backyard flocks and families.
- Eggs per year: 160-200
- Egg color: Dark Brown, Speckled
- Noise level: Quiet
- Colors: Red Partridge