Do you need a rooster to get the hens to lay

[AK BartGirl]

I was wondering if you need a rooster to get the hens to start laying eggs or if they lay more if there is a rooster? Thanks for feedback!

 

[canada-goose]

No, they don't need a rooster.

 

[Illia]

Hens will lay eggs no matter what. Roosters are only needed, IMO, when you're breeding chickens.

 

[fowltemptress]

Nope. Actually, they can make the hens lay less if they're a bit too amorous and stress out the girls.

 

[12GAGirl]

Roosters are needed if you want chicks! IMO they are good to have if allowed in your neighborhood. My guy is a RIR and is so entertaining I wouldn't think of getting rid of him. He also protects his girls when they are out free ranging in the yard!

 

[Cole405]

The hens will lay without a rooster. but you need a rooster if you want the eggs to hatch.My hens just lay. Because a rooster is sick.

 

[Judy]

The hens will lay without a rooster. but you need a rooster if you want the eggs to hatch.My hens just lay. Because a rooster is sick.

Besides fertile eggs, you need either an incubator or a broody hen to incubate the eggs.