Breed tips for a new chicken keeper

[grouchyoscar]

My mate wants to keep a couple of chickens. As pets TBH, she feels they will be soothing and relaxing.

She doesn't know what breed to get. She says she wants a bird that isn't too skittish and will tolerate being petted

I suggested the Buff Orpington as I hear they are pretty and fairly mellow, but I have no experience at all.

Also what other factors should she consider? Does she have to register with DEFRA or anything?

TIA

Normal old warrens are good, ( get point - of -lay about 13 weeks old) we have some having tried some other breeds and they are less trouble (quiet, tame, good egg layers etc) But, if she wants something different Pekin bantams are lovely, have fluffy feet, full of character and friendly. Ours were a bit squawky so they were re-homed in case they annoyed the neighbours. Don't have to tell DEFRA unless she's getting hundreds, but might need to check lease if she has one in case chicken keeping is not allowed. A good book is 'Keeping a few hens in your garden' by Francine Raymond and Keeping Chickens by Katie Thear. They are addictive and she will probably end up with more than two! We have just got a couple of ex- battery hens and integrated them with our others. Nice to do, but not always straight forward. Also need to give some thought to housing, a run etc. Lots of people buy egloos which are easy to keep clean and have a run attached, good size for just two birds but no more.

Sorry, that's Starting with chickens by Katie Thear.