Do I want this rooster? Update: He killed a hen Update: Sunday

[DDRanch]

Quote:
No, he killed just one yesterday. I updated the title to be more clear.

Thank you for your good thoughts.

 

[DDRanch]

Quote:
I did change the title. Thank you. I do not really know the neighbors, we are out in the country and seperated by several fences and a road. I don't know how they will react to his absence. I don't think they care.

 

[EweSheep]

Any roo that killed a hen or young pullet, they will be gone. I can not have any aggressive roosters in the flock, immature or not.

He looks like a game bird as well. Beautiful one that is! But unfortunately he has to go if your girls would have any peace. There are plenty of gentle roos out there. If you seriously want a roo, get one that is older and gentle.

 

[DDRanch]

Saturday morning update:

I am overwhelmed with the support , the kindness and the posts of this forum. You have all been instramental
in teaching me and helping me since I inherited my first chickens some years ago. I thank you from the bottom
of my heart.

My sweet little Del was one of my younger hens and as I mentioned, they are the most passive and docile in the flock.
All the hens were upset and anxious well into the evening as they witnessed the death as well. One of the other Delawares
looked like she was going to intervene, as she started back down the hill, but I scooped her up quickly out of harms way. I sat with
for quite a while, gave them treats and pats and belly scratches. I know they will bounce back and reorganize. I bought a
watermelon for them yesterday and will provide today.

The rooster is not coming back. He did not get a second chance.

Thank you my friends for your comfort, your kindness, your counsel and your hearts.

Anne and the Girls

 

[Serrin]

Quote:
Quite possibly one of the most endearing qualities of chickens is their incredible resiliency in the face of all adversity. Yes, it always affects the mood and outlook of a flock to loose a member, especially when the loss happens in such dramatic fashion. But bless their wonderful souls, within hours, days at the very most, they are right back to their tranquil ways of life.

My prayer for you and the girls Anne, is that it takes only hours for the return to tranquility to take place. Give all of those wonderful ladies a cuddle for me too.

 

[Cetawin]

I am so glad you grabbed the other Dellie...if they are anythign like mine, she would have intervened without a doubt. My two are are very very close and when one yells the other is right there. The are such sweet loving things.

 

[BarkerChickens]

I am so sorry for your loss!!

 

[suebee]

What did you do with the rooster? So sorry to hear about this heartbreaking outcome.

 

[DDRanch]

Sunday update:

I think we are all getting back to normal. I spent most of the day on Saturday with the girls. They got watermelon and
their absolute favorite, rummaging through new hay bales. The 3 remaining Delawares appear a bit "off" as they were
all quite close. But that may be my imagination.

Mary Alice, my older black australorpe, has taken back the lead position with the flock. There was a bit of confusion Friday as to
where everyone should roost as Mary Grace was the one in the middle of the other Dels. They did work it out though and last night
went smoothly.

Thank you again for all the support.

 

[Morgan7782]

You have a BEAUTIFUL flock I am sorry for your loss of your little girl, but man those chickens are fat healthy and shiny!