Mini-Farm Ideas: Animals

For a while now, I've been researching what I would like on my mini-farm and trying to talk hubby into it. I've been thinking about a small herd of cows, chickens, guineas, ducks (maybe), and not sure if we are going to get anything else.

Cows

Cows I have narrowed down to the Dexter breed. They are milk and meat cows that are also a cute short height. I think the smaller cows would be great for the kids. They also are good in colder weather (which is important since we are thinking about moving northwest). Are these not the cutest little cows you've seen???

Chickens

DD#1 asked begged us to buy her chickens for a year and a half now. She's even picked out the coop she wants to get for them.

Here's the coop she wants. Her favorite color is purple.

I've kinda decided on Orpingtons because they are good meat and egg birds that are also good winter layers. They are also a heavy bird with lots of plumage so they will stay warmer in the winter. They also have a great temperament. They are quiet, docile, friendly birds.

They also come in several different colors.

Guinea Fowl

Think of them as the "watchdogs" of the bird world. They will alert you to predators and people on your property. They kill snakes (supposedly), ticks, insects, and small rodents. They will also help protect your chicken flock from predators.