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Orpington

The Orpingtons are very sweet, and friendly, and are seldom bullies towards the other members of the flock. However, living in the desert where the temperatures reach well over 110 they have proven their tolerance for heat to be quite low. Especially considering they can be broody and won’t leave the coop where temperatures can be life-threatening. Every situation is different and they may be fine as free-range chickens with plenty of shade and water.
Details of the Buff Orpington:
Type:   Large Fowl & Bantam
Size:   7-8 pounds
Purpose:   Dual (meat or egg production)
Recognized Varieties:   Buff, Black, Blue, White, (buff is most common.)
Eggs:
Color:  Brown
Size:  Large
Frequency:  3-4 per week
Breed Features:
Feathered Legs: No
Crested: No
Comb Type: Single Comb
Number of Toes: 4
Character & Traits:
Accepts confinement well
Cold Hardy
Heat tolerant to 100 degrees
Docile, friendly
Broody / Setter
Good layers through the winter

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About Combs and Wattles, Chicken Anatomy

Both male and female chickens have fleshy appendages at the tops of their heads called combs.  Wattles are two oblong fleshy appendages that hang below their chin.

What Are They For?
They both have a very important function. Scientists suggest that blood is circulated between the comb and wattles to help keep the chicken cool in hot weather. This gives the comb its deep red color and allows the blood to be cooled by the air before traveling through the bird’s body.
In winter, however, the comb is prone to frostbite in some breeds. But, little Vaseline on the comb and wattles will protect them from harm.
Another important function of the comb is to help attract a mate. A large bright comb is a sign of health and vitality. The rooster is at the top of the pecking order and his comb is larger and brighter than a hen’s. But, even among hens, the brightness and size of a comb often decide who is boss.
Chicks will begin to grow a comb within the first few weeks of their life. The comb also indicates maturity in females or pullets. When it reaches a bright red, the pullet is usually at her point of lay.
Combs vary in size, shape, and color based on the sex, age, and breed of a chicken.
7 Most Common Combs:
Buttercup
Cushion
Rose
Pea
Strawberry
V-Shaped
Single

More Info on Chicken Combs
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Best Classroom Incubator and Brooder Kit

If you’re looking for the best COMPLETE kit for hatching baby chicks in the classroom, this is it. The key to an enjoyable experience is being prepared with the proper set-up. This incubator and brooder kit is from a reputable company that will stand by its product.
You can also expect a friendly and knowledgeable staff that will be happy to help you with any questions you might have along the way.
Order the kit first, then ask a Murray McMurray representative about how and when to order hatching eggs. It’s that easy!
Note: Make sure you’ve arranged a place for your chicks to go once they’ve hatched. Craig’s list in ‘Farm & Garden’ is the best place to re-home baby chicks. They’ll probably go fast if you price them at $3.00 ea. Remember what breed they are, that will be important to many chicken keepers.

Order at Murray McMurray $299

Everything you will need to incubate, hatch, and brood, plus a book and a poster are included in this kit.
You Will Receive:
Full View Picture Window Incubator
Includes:
Electronic thermostat, fan, and automatic egg turner.
The book Guide to Better Hatching.
Candling Device used to check the progress of development.
Brooder – After the birds are dry from hatching use the accompanying brooder to continue the healthy growth of chicks. This brooder is made of heavy galvanized wire mesh, wire floor, and approx. 1 1/2” to 2″ deep set-in plastic tray. There are clips on the side of the cage for easy removal and cleaning of the bottom pan. The brooder is to be used in a room that is approximately 70 degrees with no direct drafts.
The brooder holds 30 chicks for up to 10 days. It is easily assembled.
The Brooder Kit Includes:
Brooder Cage measuring 30” W x 18” L x 18” H.
Plastic poultry Waterer.
Snap-on Feeder.
5 lbs. of Chick Feed, 1 lb. Grit. and 4oz Quik Chik
Single Bulb Brooder Lamp with Infra-Red Heat Bulb
Brooder Thermometer

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