My friend has a RIR cockerel. He is almost 5 months old. A few months ago, he was injured, and is lame in one leg. He has his own pad, still gets out to free range, and is her tamest roo. This guy is so sweet-loves to be with people. He hangs out with us when we're in the yard, and is very affectionate. I don't have any problems with him during the day. I say hi, give him loves, the usual stuff. Come evening, we lock him up ( just like we do everybody), and put his water and food in his enclosure. During the day, it's out so he can reach it easier. My problem is when I put his water in, he pecks the tar out of me! It really hurts! I've dealt with broody hens and my bratty roo Wilbur, who don't peck nearly this hard. What is going on? Why just me, and why only when I give him his water? Thanks for any insight you can give me on this. I'm at a complete loss, and really like this guy.
I couldn't tell you why he's doing this, but when he does it grab his beak and hold it for several seconds, he'll get the message that its unacceptable, it may take a few times for it to sink in.
My banty roo is the same way - wonderful and fine when he's in the pen, but in his in-the-garage-cage he is MEAN. Can't even put my hand in there to get the waterer. But that's just me...with my DD he is fine. She even takes him to Petsmart and he rides on the cart. I think it's just me.
Are you wearing rings? My chickens are great unless they can see my left hand. I have my wedding rings and 3 baby rings on the first joint of 3 fingers....they try to take my fingers off to get them.
Thanks for all the great advice. I will remember to grab his beak next time he tries this. No, I don't have any jewelry on my hands. Odd how they pick one person to not get along with. I'm not a softy or wimpy around him or anything either. Who knows, thanks for the replies and advice though.
No need to worry about it just being you!! He did it to me last night and I showed him who the boss was!! ( Yes I am the friend with the bratty spoiled roo)