Deciding to raise chickens is one thing, but figuring out which breeds will suit your needs is another--especially with hundreds of different types! Whether you're raising chickens for eggs, meat, companionship, or show, The Beginner's Guide to Chicken Breeds has all the information you need to get started. This easy-to-use reference book helps you assess your needs and guides you in making the best decisions for beginning or expanding your flock.

Get to know top-tier pure breeds and hybrids, optimal egg-layers and broilers, ideal chicken breeds for beginners, and more. For every category of chicken, you'll find an ultimate breed list that highlights the unique qualities and strengths of each, and breaks down the key considerations of owning them.

The Beginner's Guide to Chicken Breeds includes:

• Beginner-friendly guidance--Get started with expert insights, answers to commonly asked questions, lists of pros and cons, and a best-fit questionnaire to help you narrow down the right chicken breeds for you.
• Cost estimates--Plan for all the expenses associated with raising a backyard flock, including the chicken coop, food, veterinary bills, cleaning products, and other supplies.
• Chicken characteristics--Explore key breed-specific traits, including average weight and appearance, harvest age, egg production and color, temperament, climate hardiness, and more.