Do I NEED a rooster?

[Chicky85254]

I have 7 bantam pullets (at least I think they are all pullets). I'm new to chickens and I've been reading lots of info here at BYC. It seems that roosters do a lot to protect their flock of hens....do I need one?

I will be keeping the hens at our ranchette, which is approximately 1 acre in size, with 6' block walls around the whole area. My two horses will also be there, but not sure if they will be of any protection to chickens? I am aware that there are racoons in the vicinity, probably hawks and owls too. We're setting up the extremely secure coop with auto door closer/opener for them so they will be safe at night. But do I need to worry about them during the day? Would a rooster really make much difference?

 

[miss_jayne]

nope. rooster not needed, unless you want more chickens without ordering them!

 

[speckledhen]

No, you dont need one unless you want fertile eggs to sell or hatch yourself. I like having one alot. They protect the ladies and are willing to sacrifice themselves for the flock.

 

[Chicky85254]

Will the hens "protect" themselves or watch for danger, or ???

I don't eat eggs, but my b/f does....so I don't care if they are fertile either way....although I wouldn't mind if more chicks "just appeared" one day!

 

[the1much]

hawks and eagles and dogs,cats,alot of animals hunt during the day.,, and myself,, i think a roo is 1 of the best pieces of protection you can have, specially if there is no net above ya girls. my roo's protect against every animal, humans, and birds. and most take REALLY good care of THEIR girls.

 

[Chicky85254]

Since I have bantys, could I get a Large rooster, or do I have to stick with a bantam rooster?

 

[the1much]

a larger roo would try to mate with them,, and that could be problems with him squishing them.

 

[rebecca10782]

I wouldn't get a large rooster,if he is to big, he might hurt the girls while mating.

 

[DTchickens]

just get you a GOOD livestock dog... if you dont care about fertile eggs or not.. Perhaps a great pyrenees.. a lot and myself can give you feedback on these amazing dogs


-Daniel

 

[gritsar]

Quote:
All that, plus they're a hoot to watch.