chicks and roosters

[zebraffe4231]

I have two hens and one rooster now and i was thinking of getting four pullets. Im planning on having their brooder in the coop. My only concern is what will happen with the rooster when they are finally allowed to mingle with the existing flock. Would he try to mate with them when they are still small? Let me know your experiences with this and what methods of introduction work best!! thank you!

 

[nchls school]

I have two hens and one rooster now and i was thinking of getting four pullets. Im planning on having their brooder in the coop. My only concern is what will happen with the rooster when they are finally allowed to mingle with the existing flock. Would he try to mate with them when they are still small? Let me know your experiences with this and what methods of introduction work best!! thank you!

I have bantams. The whole flock shares the same space and ages range from a few days to eight years old. Yes. The rooster does attempt to mate with the younger pullets. They struggle away and then run. And no harm is done. With the smallest of chicks, they are often running around and under the rooster. I have one rooster that actively help rear the chicks.

My advice-try it, but observe very closely for that first hour or so. If there is a problem it will be right way. If there is plenty of room, I doubt you'd have any serious problem.

 

[dekel18042]

I have two hens and one rooster now and i was thinking of getting four pullets. Im planning on having their brooder in the coop. My only concern is what will happen with the rooster when they are finally allowed to mingle with the existing flock. Would he try to mate with them when they are still small? Let me know your experiences with this and what methods of introduction work best!! thank you!

I've never had a problem with roosters and chicks, especially since they have hens of their own. They're very accepting of the chicks.
Often a young cockerel feels his oats and tries to get it on with pullets his own age who aren't interested. This doesn't seem to happen as often if other age birds are in the flock or at that time I make sure the young cockerels go in with the laying hens or if I have a rooster pad (which I don't always have, they go them.
They learn manners in a hurry.