You don't have to get a rooster, but I find they add a wonderful dimension to the flock and to disagree with NYReds (again, sorry Bill), they may be the first one eaten, but that may save the hens. It's the job of the rooster to get them to safety, even at the loss of his own life. Mine have done this over and over again and thankfully, they have never had to try to actually battle a canine predator, though they have warned us of them, but I know someone whose rooster has, more than once, and still lives today. You can read his stories here:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/521876/why-have-a-rooster-new-pg-10-video-pg-13
The small downside to having a rooster, especially a very aggressive breeder, is the feather loss on some of the hens. Even when you have enough for him, he'll still have favorites. They will not improve the egg laying situation and if they stress out the hens too much, they can limit egg production.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/521876/why-have-a-rooster-new-pg-10-video-pg-13
The small downside to having a rooster, especially a very aggressive breeder, is the feather loss on some of the hens. Even when you have enough for him, he'll still have favorites. They will not improve the egg laying situation and if they stress out the hens too much, they can limit egg production.
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