Hello from Wisconsin

[RobynMc]

Hi BYC! I've been reading your posts for a while and figured it's about time to join! Me and my family live on a little farmette in central Wi, we have 2 horse, a pony, 2 goats, 2 cats and 3 dogs. I am new to chickens, have always wanted layers of my own so this spring I picked up 3 reds and 3 leghorns (supposedly sexed) just recently I have begun suspecting that one of my leghorns may not be a hen- she has a really big comb?? So wondering if any of you can offer any opinions- is Gertrude really Gilbert?!?

 

[luvmypets]

... Looks like a gilbert... Can you keep him!

 

[RobynMc]

This may sound like a dumb question, but Do I want a rooster with my hens?

 

[luvmypets]

Yes he will protect your girls and give you wonderful chicks!

 

[RobynMc]

Cool- thank you!!!

 

[luvmypets]

Np!

 

[ronmauldin]

Welcome from the Ocean State!

 

[dawg53]

Welcome to BYC. Hang on to Gertrude until she crows. Then make a decision whether to keep him or get rid of him. Leghorn hens grow big combs and can be mistaken for a roo.

 

[drumstick diva]

Your hens will lay eggs whether you have a rooster or not. You only need a rooster if you want to have "fertile" eggs for hatching.

Some roosters are good for the flock, some are miserable failures (the first to run at sign of danger), some are aggressive and have to get re-homed or be turned into dinner. Also a rooster can handle 10 hens - less and the poor girls may end up overbred and injured.

 

[Kelsie2290]

Hello and Welcome To BYC!