Getting rid of roosters

[hammyanne]

Definitely see if there are processing services in your area! I wonder if they’d give you a discount since the birds are so little?

I just wanted to offer some comfort as a very recent first time culler: I use a kill cone and a sharp knife, make the cut to the throat and walk away/busy myself with prepping for the next few steps so I don’t have to stick around for the involuntary movements. The whole experience was intense but helped me understand bird anatomy more than any pictures ever could!

 

[Fluster Cluck Acres]

If you're unable to rehome them, you'll come to a point where culling them becomes the most humane thing to do.

I love all my birds- even my baby cockerels- but I have come to learn that it's better to harvest them before they become problematic. When those hormones kick in- everyone becomes stressed- not just the pullets but the cockerels as well. They'll fight amongst themselves, harass the pullets, and if you try to seperate them they'll just be miserable and want to return to their pullets. It's sad to watch, but once you reach this point, the idea of culling starts to become a little easier.

The first few times I gave roosters away, but I started worrying about what kind of fate those birds were facing. I've started feeling morally responsible to be the one who culls my roosters instead of leaving it up to someone else. That's just my personal feeling. We were fortunate and had a good neighbor come by and help us with the process the first time around. You might consider asking a friend or someone with experience if they'd walk you through it the first time.

And honestly, the act of culling the birds still sucks. I've been through it enough times that I know what the outcome will be if I don't cull (or if procrastinate too much) and that knowledge makes it a little easier. I wish you luck in your journey!