Barnevelder rooster

[beggas82]

Hey does anyone know at approx what age a barnevelder rooster will start mating? Have one about 4 mths old and was wondering when I might expect fertile eggs?

 

[QueenMisha]

It depends on the cockerel. Some might start attempting to mate at 4 months
and some as late as 10. The average is 5-6 but even then he won't be very good at mounting and balancing. I'd say expect consistently fertile eggs when he is between 8-10 months of age.

 

[Happy Chooks]

Breeding stock or hatchery stock?

Breeding stock - Around 6 months. I have a few cockerels that try a bit earlier, but the pullets generally don't start laying until 7-8 months.

I don't know on hatchery stock, I haven't ever had hatchery Barnevelders. I would expect it to be earlier though.

 

[aart]

As soon as he figures out how(usually around 4-6 months)....
.....and the pullets are willing to let him(when they are near point of lay).

Breed or origin doesn't really matter, tho specific lines might.

Learn to look at yolks for fertility when breaking eggs to eat:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/16008/how-to-tell-a-fertile-vs-infertile-egg-pictures