Can a flock survive without a rooster?

[chixcoop]

We have 2 roosters and 6 hens. The 4 month alpha rooster is being aggressive, and I was wondering if the flock would be able to get along without the rooster(s)? If I remove the dominant rooster, (for mr freezer) i am afraid that the other rooster will be just the same! What do I do?

 

[SIMZ]

Two roosters is too many for only 6 hens, so getting rid of one is a good idea. Your flock will get a long fine without a rooster. Roosters can be great flock protectors, but lots of people keep only hens. Try your other rooster. He may be a nice one!

I think I also saw you were wondering where to get another rooster. Check your local craigslist. Everyone is getting rid of roosters this time of year. Good luck!

 

[junebuggena]

There is no reason you have to have a rooster in your flock.

 

[Blooie]

junebuggena is right, as she often is. No need for a rooster at all. I have lots of hens no roos, and the girls lay just fine without one. They don't even miss one! Now, if you WANT a rooster, then by all means, either hope your remaining roo remains calm and docile or look for another. Too many good roos out there who have no faults other than they aren't welcome in their neighborhoods by ordinances and such.

Good luck!

 

[chixcoop]

Thanks, Ill check my local craigslist!

 

[aart]

Remove one of the cockerels, then wait (up to a few weeks to a few months) and see how the other cockerel behaves.
If he's needs to be invited for dinner too, I'd wait until the pullets are all laying well before getting a nice mature rooster.

Tho..... 6 pullets might be too few for a rooster and could result in overmating,
and the risks of bringing pests and diseases in with an adult bird from another flock are not to be overlooked.

Think about if you really need a rooster.

 

[chixcoop]

We live right next to the woods, and there are the occasional bears and other pests in the woods. In addition, we do not have a dog, juts a bb gun!

 

[aart]

We live right next to the woods, and there are the occasional bears and other pests in the woods. In addition, we do not have a dog, juts a bb gun!

A rooster won't help against most predators, except maybe as a warning if you free range......
...... the best predator deterrent is a well meshed run, for bears I'd be installing hot wire around the run and coop.