Do Roos stimulate production? Your opinion.

[Justso]

I have a bantam Cochin I'd like to breed, however she is not producing eggs yet this year. That got me wondering, would the presence of a rooster stimulate a hen hormonally? I wonder if the introduction of a fella would change things. Tell me what you think.

 

[crazy4ChickensNducks]

I don't think it will change anything

 

[EggSighted4Life]

Nope... light stimulates production, hormones. Beyond that it's up to genetics and nutrition (parasite control). Sometimes predator presence can halt laying.

While having a good rooster can be a benefit for hens in that they find them treats and offer a feeling of security, break up hen fights and such... adding an unknown male could actually delay onset a little... as any added stress *could*.

Most my hens are happier without male influence. But some appreciate it. It has zero baring on my production.

How old is your Cochin?

 

[Justso]

Not very old, 2 this summer. I did have some eggs last summer, not many though since she would tend to go broody.