Your plan sounds good. :) Since you get cold winters, I'd suggest breeds with small combs--avoid Leghorns and the like, they can sometimes be susceptible to frostbite on their large combs. Most breeds get along well together (there is always going to be the occasional squabble), but in my experience sometimes Rhode Island Reds tend to 'pack up' like dogs do when kept in groups, and can be bullies. Wyandottes can be quite dominant, as well. mypetchicken.com has a fun 'breed selector' widget you might want to try: http://www.mypetchicken.com/breedQuestions.aspx Velvet ~:>

Thanks! Yes, we have a large population of wild turkeys in the area but I have never seen one in the yard. I guess due to their increasing numbers they are beginning to frequent urbanized areas...I'll be watching (so will the retriever!). Thanks again, hortster

Interesting! I've never seen a wild turkey by the Hudson but it's definitely possible. I figured they belonged to a raptor since I see so many hawks up there, but I really don't know. I found them on August 30, and they were most likely dropped at night- the place was occupied until 6 pm the night before, and I found them at 8ish the next morning. I should mention that they got a little worn in transit from the porch to the ruler, but they were worn to begin with, and the porch had lots of disturbed foliage like there had been some kind of animal-related event there. Thanks again for your help!

Thank you, actually my husband took this picture. This was taken at lake Gaston in NC. I grew up here, and love the area. It is a very magical place with lots of energy and family history. Everytime I photograph here my pictures turn out great. jvann