How can I tell if my rooster is getting old?

[jdolder18]

We bought our rooster on craigslist last spring, and we don't really know how old he is. He has been acting really weird lately by doing things such as secluding himself from his hens and breathing heavily. I don't think he's sick, I just think he might be getting old. Are there any signs to tell if he is getting old?

Thanks!

 

[Mrs. K]

To me, older chickens look "olo" Their colors are not as bright, their beak looks duller, and a bit more bent, they walk a little less spry, a little slower.

But I wonder if your roo is sick. Raspy breathing is not a good sign in any animal.

MRs K

 

[jdolder18]

That could be a possibility. I live in Indiana and we're just getting out of this big snowstorm, but we put him and the chicks inside. He definitely has some discoloring on his waddles though. Yesterday, he shed one of his spurs, so maybe that is part of the reason he was acting funny? I will certainly look into some sicknesses. I hope he was just feeling down because he was loosing his spur and was in pain.

Thanks for your help!
I will post more if I have any questions!
Again, thank you!