do i need a rooster???

[whitehousechix]

so I just bought a dozen pullets and made an awesome coop and run do I need a rooster?? I have no interest in breeding, just want some eggs and entertainment

 

[Domestic_goddess]

You don't need a rooster, you'll get beautiful eggs regardless!

 

[Illia]

No and yes.


To me, "entertainment" REQUIRES a rooster. Even if it is just a bantam, when you've got full sized hens. Bantam roosters are just the funniest!

Otherwise no, their main uses are for breeding, flock protection/watch, and some other opinionated uses. (show, flock balance, etc)

 

[sourland]

You only "need" a rooster if you want to hatch eggs. That being said there is a lot to be gained from having a good rooster in the flock. The problem lies in the fact that not all roosters are good, and the pain in the butt roosters can take a lot of the fun out of keeping chickens.

 

[whitehousechix]

that is exactly what I wanted to hear thanks, I LOVE this site you all are remarkable

 

[Snegurochka]

Having a rooster adds another level of difficulty to chicken keeping. I would stick with the hens for a while until you get the hang of things. I really regretted buying my rooster at first, when he pecked all my beautiful hens bald, and crowed at 3 a.m. But nowadays it's fun to watch him jump up to take chickweed from me and feed it to the hens. In short, it's fun to have a rooster but there are many things I miss from my all-girls flock.

 

[phasianidae]

Quote:
x2

 

[gritsar]

I won't have a flock without a rooster. Sure, PITA ones can be a downer, but good roos are worth their weight in gold.

 

[Dar]

yes you need a rooster... cause they are so perdy

but seriously no you dont...

 

[gritsar]

Quote:
But they are more than just purdy. I swear my rooster told one of my hens to go get her chicks when she left them outside tonight. He clucked at her and she turned right around and went out the door to retrieve the babies.