Dumb Question, New to Chickens

I have 7 hens and 1 rooster - all about 4 months old.  The rooster has started crowing lately, and he's also started harassing the hens - primarily my RIRs. He jumps them, then there is terrible squawking and struggle from the poor hen, and he usually rips out a few of the hen's feathers. She runs off as fast as she can.  None of my hens are laying eggs yet.

Is this mating behavior? Is it normal to happen several times a day? (poor hens) Or is it some sort of aggression?

I think he's feeling his testosterone, but the hens aren't ready, or is this just behavior I should get used to?  I mean, I'm not looking to hatch chicks, so he's "ornamental" really.

I'm so obviously new to chickens.  

TIA

Thank you ChicKat - I'll do that.  Will it be better when they're ready to lay eggs?

Quote:

Originally Posted by NYREDS 

Better in what way? It sounds like normal mating behavior. Since both your male & your females are young his technique & their readiness may improve with time. Think of the fumbling of teenage boys. Some cockerels mate more aggressively than others but "normal" is a range not a point.

Thanks, I'd like it if his technique improved when all matured. That's what I meant by "better with time".  He's separated to give the pullets a break and I'll reintroduce him to the flock again when they're all older, larger and more mature. I'd like to hatch chicks, but eggs are the main goal, and since he's not necessary for egg production..........I just hope he develops a better opening line.

Quote:

Originally Posted by ChicKat 

My expertise is limited, but I think that a mature hen that is laying handles having a rooster around better than the pullet who isn't laying.  We have a rooster now who is very considerate and gentle with the hens.  Previously the guy (who was larger) caused the hens more distress---which I think was needless.  

 

The gentler rooster is younger... so I think that there is a spectrum of 'normal rooster behavior' and for my hens...I'm going to always hope for the sweet less aggressive roosters.   Believe it or not there is such a creature.  ;O)

Thanks ChicKat. I agree. While I understand "normal mating behavior" being a range of assertiveness to aggressiveness, this guy is in the very high aggression range - at least for me, and apparently my pullets, too. I'm hopeful they will calm down, and will give it a chance, but I'm not letting them be harrassed all day, every day. He's yanking out feathers in clumps every ten minutes. I see no reason for that, especially when there are plenty of fish in the sea.  If he doesn't ease up later, I have a nice recipe..... Too bad...he's a very handsome rooster, and he's very sweet to people, although that's all about the food.

Quote:

Originally Posted by devora 

Oh lordie, what an image. 

Too funny, devora.