Cockerels and boy related stuff !

[Lexia257]

Ive just seen a post about a rooster who doesn't protect the flock and runs away when a dog/fox/something that scares him appears amongst them. I feel the poster was rather too harsh on his cockrel, asking what use is he and calling him a coward !
A male's purpose, regardless of species is, in general, to procreate and protecting the flock /herd is an added necessity to that. Hens and cockrels all have personalitys and are intelligent creatures, despite what we humans may suggest. I have had cockrels who have completely protected the girls and have shown them where food is, standing back while they eat, before he eats. Others have been less generous in this respect, but usually due to inexperience or role models to learn from.
I love my hens and cockerels, regardless of their actions. There is always a reason why an animal / bird / human acts the way it does, often instinctive. Happy families, everyone ! Xx

 

[WunnySharbit]

Their other role is to distract preds away from flock--running will do that. Think killdeer (the birds)

 

[Lexia257]

Their other role is to distract preds away from flock--running will do that. Think killdeer (the birds)

Indeed !

 

[aart]

Ive just seen a post about a rooster who doesn't protect the flock and runs away when a dog/fox/something that scares him appears amongst them. I feel the poster was rather too harsh on his cockrel, asking what use is he and calling him a coward !

Maybe you missed the concept of tongue in cheek?
....and it doesn't really matter, some rooster are worthless cowards.
That thread has given a wide range of views and experiences from worthless to priceless.
It's a great thread, for those who would like to read it here is a link:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/just-how-useful-is-a-rooster-anyway.1292139/

 

[Mrs. K]

^^ I agree with AArt - some are great and some are not. Some are smart, and some are not. They are like any other life form.

I try and keep a harmonious flock, not all birds will work in my set up, and more than likely will not all work in yours. A happy flock is an ever changing flock.

 

[Keeperofmunchkins]

I think some people slightly misunderstand a rooster's role. His job isn't to fight with predators. Chickens are prey animals. Their survival depends on their ability to EVADE predators. This means having systems in place for watching for early warning signs and alerting each other to danger. This also means running/flying away.
Roosters are only equipped to fight each other for the right to breed the hens of the flock.
Therefore a good rooster is one who takes care of his girls, shows them the good food, shows them the good nest spots, isn't aggressive with mating, keeps the peace between hens, watches and alerts for all danger, and knows when it's best to scatter and flee.

 

[Alexandra33]

Though some are blessed with brave roos who fight predators one-on-one, I'm beginning to think this isn't the norm. Mine do absolutely nothing to divert, or protect. They're the first to dive for cover, and watch from safety as their hens are killed and eaten.

As heartbreaking as it is, I'm actually thankful these boys don't throw themselves in harm's way. My roos mean the world to me, since good ones are few and far between.

~Alex