[DelaWhere]

I would suggest Buff Orpingtons - I have them and not only are they a larger bird, but they are very family friendly.

Mine are averaging 80% laying an egg a day right now - and increasing as we approach spring.

Oh, Central Texas does get colder in the winter too - they can handle it.

You might be interested in a couple of FR threads on this type of subject, including gardening, chickens, goats, recipes, and lots and lots more...

http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/chat/1990507/posts?page=1

http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/chat/2181392/posts?q=1&;page=1

[Marie]

Thank you!

I was leaning toward the Australorps already. I’ll look into the Buff Orpingtons.