Anyone know anything about different breeds of hens?

[Violet_Crumble]

I know less than nothing, but I've been approached by the body corporate of the townhouse complex I'm in asking my permission for my neighbours to keep a few egg-laying hens that they claim won't make any noise. I'm worried because the front courtyard is pretty small and not far from my bedroom window and part of the reason I sold my old place and bought my townhouse was to get away from the Million Bird Aviary that was over my back fence and the noise from which woke me up without fail at 5am during summer.

So does anyone know whether hens make any noise? I don't mind low-level clucking or whatever they do during the day but if they wake me up as soon as the sun comes up, I'll be totally annoyed. Also, do they attract mice and rats and stuff? If there's little chance of me even noticing they're there, I'm going to say I've got no objections to a few hens, but if they're noisy party-hens who stink and invite the nearest rats over, then I'll have a problem with the plan...

on edit: forgot to mention the breed they are. Andalusion or something similar. I should have written it down when I was on the phone so I'd remember...

[Zoigal]

1. Our neighbor, who lives two houses away, has quite a few hens.

He often shares their eggs with us. Think there are several different breeds, but they seldom
make any noise. An occasional "cackle" after laying an egg, but nothing else. They eat insects, etc
but to my knowledge don't attract other critters. However, if their food is left out it might attract the attention of unwanted varmints. Hope this helps.....z

[Violet_Crumble]

2. Thanks, that's been a real help...

It's put my mind at rest a bit :)

[hippywife]

3. Ours do cackle loudly when they've laid an egg

and they can go on...loudly...for some time. However, that is only during the day. They are very quiet at night and for most of the day.

It can get a little smelly and attract rodents if the pen is not kept clean enough. There have been times when it has rained way too hard for days on end for the pen to be cleaned and, yes, it smelled.

It's really all about the individual owner of the birds. If they are well sheltered and cared for there should be no problem.

You might have better response on this question if you post it in Rural/Farm. :hi: