Hi everyone,
I’m looking for some advice.
I have a flock of 13 hens with 1 rooster (Jack). He’s a good rooster overall, but I’ve noticed some of my hens are starting to look a bit over-mated. I suspect he may be too rough or is favoring certain hens. I am planning to increase the flock in 2026, but if the higher hen ratio doesn’t solve the issue, I may need to re-home him.
Today I isolated my Rhode Island Red hen because she started limping and is laying down a lot. I’m guessing she may have strained or injured her leg/hip while being mated. There’s no visible wound, and she can move the leg, but she prefers not to put weight on it.
She’s currently in a quiet pen with soft bedding, feed, and water.
My Questions:
Any advice is appreciated. I just want to make sure she gets the care she needs and that the rest of the flock stays safe.
Thank you!
I’m looking for some advice.
I have a flock of 13 hens with 1 rooster (Jack). He’s a good rooster overall, but I’ve noticed some of my hens are starting to look a bit over-mated. I suspect he may be too rough or is favoring certain hens. I am planning to increase the flock in 2026, but if the higher hen ratio doesn’t solve the issue, I may need to re-home him.
Today I isolated my Rhode Island Red hen because she started limping and is laying down a lot. I’m guessing she may have strained or injured her leg/hip while being mated. There’s no visible wound, and she can move the leg, but she prefers not to put weight on it.
She’s currently in a quiet pen with soft bedding, feed, and water.
My Questions:
- Is there anything more I can do to help her heal?
- How long should I keep her separated?
- Would a chicken saddle or trimming Jack’s spurs help reduce future injuries?
- Has anyone had a rooster who over-mates even with 10+ hens — and did adding more hens actually help?
Any advice is appreciated. I just want to make sure she gets the care she needs and that the rest of the flock stays safe.
Thank you!
