When it comes to getting your first (or your next) flock, there is an extremely important question to ask. What breed?
Do you want meat? Eggs? Both? Do you want to hatch the generation after them? Do you want pesticide control? Do you want family friendly birds? These are all big questions that are likely to float around the minds of any farmer (new or experienced) when they’re considering new birds
As far as meat chickens, a lot of birds that were bred for meat (big breasts, good meat, and whatnot) end up infertile. This means, the eggs they lay, can’t be hatched. Ever.
Chickens are desired for both meat and eggs and if you get the right breed, you can have a chicken that does both and lays hatch-able eggs Orpington Chickens. This breed is considered dual-purpose and while that term commonly makes people not want a breed, they are prolific egg-layers that can lay into the winter months if properly cared for and (speaking from experience) their meat tastes amazing. They’re good with people, easy to care for, and even the roosters are relatively not aggressive.
As far as pesticide control, one should consider ducks. Unlike chickens, ducks will not dig holes in the ground for sand baths which is preferred for vineyards, orchards, and gardens. Ducks also have great meat and lay eggs.
When considering a breed, the area live is important. Indian Runner Ducks, as the name implies, we’re bred in India. These birds do well in hot/warm climates and are great at foraging. However, they are not very cold hardy so in cooler climates, try their relative the Magpie duck. Muscovy ducks are also very cold hardy and incredible foragers and every year we’ve had them they’ve hatched their own nests. However, they will shake a vine until the grapes or fruits fall out so consider keeping them in their designated area when your fruits are ripe. Orpington Chickens are very cold hardy but require bedding, a good home, and ventilation.
These are important to keep in mind when considering birds!