Integrating a rooster into a flock?

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wordgirl

wordgirl

One of the Shire-folk
15 Years
Apr 14, 2009
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I'm thinking about getting a "proven" rooster for my new flock - one that's already grown up and has shown himself to nice to humans. If I did this, when would be the optimum time to put him into the flock? After they're all mature and laying? Before then? I would like it if he would be able to be there as a very accepted leader (I know this would depend on his own personality, as well) and be able to take care of pecking order squabbles and stuff and I don't know when the best time would be for him to become part of the flock. Would it be bad if I put him with them before they start to lay? Or would he not see such young birds as part of his flock?

Thanks!

If I put this in the wrong place, please let me know (or just tell a moderator).
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I wish I could answer your question but I am actually very curious myself as I am looking at acquring an absolutely gorgeous rooster from a friend and not sure how to do it either. Hope you don't mind me jumping on!!!
 
I added my rooster after I Had my hens. My rooster was younger when I got him, He did not stay in his quarantine jail he escaped but he did okay he was accepted by some of the girls right off the girls in that where lower in the pecking order. Then he kept moving up now he takes care of all the girls and breaks up fights and is a great rooster. Just know that if you do get a teenager he might show some issues with humans. Good luck
 
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Glad to have you.
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What breed is the rooster?

I don't know. I know that sounds crazy but I thought once I got him I would post a pic and get everyone's opinion. I just think he is gorgeous. He is older though so hope he don't attack my kids. If he does I guess him and the water hose will have to meet.
 
No matter how old he is, it's a good idea to introduce him to your girls at night. If you put him up on the roost at night among your ladies, the girls will be more likely to accept him. They wake up in the morning and THERE HE IS. It's kinda like the hens say, 'oh you've been here all along, I just didn't notice you'.
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LOL
 
I tried a young rooster - didn't work for my girls or me (they were @6 mo.). Months later, like you, we tried an older, proven rooster, and the girls accepted him within 5 minutes. I kept him separated from the girls with chicken wire so that they could see one another for just over two weeks. I formally introduced them during the day. My lead hen, followed by my 2nd in command chest butted him, and it was a done deal. Personally, I'd wait until your girls were laying to introduce him, but that's JMO.
 
Thanks, everybody! So if I introduced an adult rooster to the pullets just after they begin to lay, would that be a good time?
 

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