I have 3 Silver Laced Wyandottes, 2 Black Sex Links, and 2 Golden Sex Links (all hens, 2 years old). I am planning on getting another 6 hen chicks (out of a straight run), and would like to keep a rooster as well for future hatching. Can anyone give me suggestions as to breeds for the ne birds? I am keeping a flock mainly for eggs, but will use the spent hens and cockerels of future hatches for meat, so I like the dual-purpose breeds. I really need some suggestions on what breed the rooster should be.

I am partial to Barred Plymouth Rocks. They are dual purpose and are quite tame and not aggressive as many other breeds (usually.). I've had Rhode Island Reds, too...and they are very nice roosters. RIR hens are major egg-machines, too.

When getting a rooster, there are some things you must consider.
First off, size considerations. If you have bantams or medium hens, you don't want a giant like a brahma, because he will hurt the hens. However, if you have brahma hens, you don't want a banty rooster simply because he won't be able to reach her vent. I have had best luck with roosters smaller than hens.
Next, you must consider temperament. You want a nice rooster, even if you want to eat him, because a mean one will be annoying, and make it hard to feed the birds. Some breeds to avoid are: brahmas, fighting game cocks, barred plymouth rocks, and especially leghorns.
Finally, if you are raising for a pet, get the breed you like, color and appearance wise, and for gods sakes HAVE FUN WITH YOUR CHICKENS!!!

if u want ur bird 2 b nice, all u have 2 do is handle it a lot, exspecialy when it's young, it doesn't matter wut breed, it matter's on the person. u can change n e breed into a meat bird by feeding it cracked corn and meat builder feed from the day u get it. i do warn u though, they grow very fast on meat builder and shouldn't be used 4 breeding. if n e 1 wants 2 contact me, feel free 2 e-mail me!

Dana
I suggest if u are looking for good egg production and a good temperment you should look at an Australorp or New Hampshire as they are dual purpose and great looking.
Have fun Banty