Baby Chicks: Barred Plymouth Rock Bantam

Barred Plymouth Rocks or "Barred Rocks", as they're called, are one of the most popular chickens on small farms today, and this bantam variety is as sweet as can be. The heritage of the breed is unclear with reports of different crosses, but what is clear is that they're very friendly, great layers of brown eggs and fairly cold hardy for a bantam. Though they tolerate confinement, they're most happy when they get to range freely. We recommend them as one of the best breeds for beginners.