Do roosters really help hens?

[SueT]

Once the hens accept the new rooster, he will be helpful to them. However, this may take some time, especially if he is a young cockerel. They will probably attack and ostracize a young male.
My 6 month cockerel is beloved by the 2 pullets his age, and they stick to him like glue. But the 1 and 2 year old hens want nothing to do with him....

 

[Soon2BChixMom]

Once the hens accept the new rooster, he will be helpful to them. However, this may take some time, especially if he is a young cockerel. They will probably attack and ostracize a young male.
My 6 month cockerel is beloved by the 2 pullets his age, and they stick to him like glue. But the 1 and 2 year old hens want nothing to do with him....
View attachment 1485144

So regal looking!

 

[Chick-N-Fun]

I am considering keeping a young EE x Polish cockerel for my flock of 15. Unfortunately, I do not free range. Would there be a benefit for keeping him if they don’t free range?

 

[aart]

Would there be a benefit for keeping him if they don’t free range?

The only real benefit is if you want fertile eggs for hatching.

 

[ChocolateMouse]

Would there be a benefit for keeping him if they don’t free range?

The only real benefit is if you want fertile eggs for hatching.

Or if predators could still get into your pen. My chickens don't "free range" on a pasture, they have a pen, but local city ordinances say pens with tops are "dog kennels" and must be X size, x materials and inspected etc. so there's no top on mine. Having a rooster keeps the hawks at bay.
They may also still do things like break up fights and generally keep the peace, but this benefit is minimal.