Help us settle our two points of view

[Corinia]

So we started this whole flock with 5 hens and 1 drake. We lost 2 hens along the way, we added one hen later on (with two geese but that's besides the point). Right now there are 4 hens and one drake, all adults. We recently hatched 3 hens and 1 drake.

This all means that next spring we will have 2 drakes and 7 hens.

I am of the mind that this ratio will not work. Husband thinks things will be fine. What say you?

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

I'd just wait and see. You can always remove one if they become too much.

 

[KathiQuacks]

This ratio is pretty much on the line between working and not working. It definitely depends on your drake’s temperaments. Waiting and seeing would be good.

Some can deal with as low as a 1:3, but I usually recommend a 1:4 or 1:5.

 

[LydiaB]

I have a definite “couple” in my large flock. Last year it was 3 drakes, 20 hens. Two of the drakes mixed with everyone. The other drake hung out with one hen constantly. Now that the flock is larger he has branched out a bit, but is still usually with “his” hen.
If your drakes have a temperament like that, your ratio may work. Just watch for overmating

 

[igorsMistress]

I would also take the wait and see approach and add or subtract as needed later.

 

[Jenbirdee]

yah it’s like the roll of the dice… will be interesting to find out how it goes, please come back and tell us