cockerel raising/fluffing up neck feathers but doesn't seem aggressive?

[loyalcrowlist]

Hi!

So I have a bantam cockerel, he was hatched at the end of Sept. I've had cockerels before but I've never seen this exact type of behavior and I wanted to make sure I'm not missing a sign that he's uncomfortable or aggressive/upset. I included a picture of the neck fluff and then his immediate behavior after. He was sitting in my lap the entire time, he likes to kind of lay on his side in the crook of my arm and wiggle before usually sleeping.

Is this just a young rooster behavior or is he upset or uncomfortable? (I'm asking because I really like this one and he might be the first one I can keep so I want to make sure I'm not missing anything and treating him right.)

 

[azygous]

When he raises his head and flares the neck feathers, by some chance is there a dog or cat entering the room? Or another chicken or a small child running in?

This particular behavior is usually a response to some perceived threat.

 

[thecatumbrella]

I have a pullet exactly like this. She both enjoys and is threatened by cuddles, and ended up becoming somewhat aggressive at point-of-lay. I would proceed with caution (based on my experience).