After finding out my "roo" is in fact a pullet, I've decided to get an actual rooster to help keep my feisty flock in line. I found one on Craigslist listed as an Ameraucana cross (EE right?). I made an appointment to see him tomorrow morning. I found an old rabbit cage that will have to do for his sleeping quarters until he passes his quarantine period. The last time I had to quarantine new chickens was in August, so the weather wasn't an issue. With the cold weather setting in, will he be ok overnight by himself? I think I'm going to house his cage in my garage. Should I cover it with a blanket, or even put him in the back of my SUV? I don't want him to get too cold out there by himself! Also, is there anything that I should do to help relieve some of the stress of moving and quaratine? Should I put some Poly-vi-sol in his water? I even thought of asking the owner if he has a "girlfriend" for sale to help keep him company. Any advice you have is greatly appreciated. Thank you!
It would depend on how he was housed at his old place as he could be well adjusted to the cold and if he's going to be in the garage with no wind blowing in on him he'll be fine. Have previous owner check for mites and such before you bring him home so that you'll know to treat him right away. Also you can stuff the cage with hay so that he snuggles down into it for comfort and warmth.
If you can provide a draft free spot in the garage, he should be OK. I would cover the cage partially in the evening, and I would put bedding over the wire bottom of the cage so that he does not become chilled from below.
EEs are great breeds: the rooster I have is super nice and extremely tame. You may find something useful in this: https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=390911. He should be OK by himself until you get him with the rest of the flock. You may want to cover him when you're bring him home, as birds are usually a lot calmer when it's dark.
