How do I pick a rooster

[michiganlarry]

My wellsummer chicks are 7 weeks old now. Out of the 9 that hatched I have 3 roosters. Two of them are a darker color and one is much lighter. I can see different personalities developing already. I only want to keep one of them. They are just starting to want to fight a little bit so that got me wondering. How should I pick? What should I look for in the "one"?

 

[Cats Critters]

One that looks good and is nice (aka: doesn't attack you), you could post pictures in a few weeks when they grow out some and we can help you choose.

 

[Judy]

Depends what you want out of a rooster. If you want to be sure he will not attack you, you need to wait a while. Remember that the friendliest one now may be the one who feels he can dominate you when the hormones kick in. If you are looking for one to protect the flock from predators, you might choose a different one.

I don't know what age you will know for sure who will not attack people.

 

[michiganlarry]

Thanks for the replies. I will post some pics in a few weeks then.

 

[gritsar]

IMO, you pick the one you like the best. Then don't baby him, don't play with him, don't try to make him nice. Roosters don't understand friendship, they understand dominance. Feed, water and provide shelter for him and then ignore him. He needs to see you as the alpha roo from the very start. When you are around him he needs to take a few steps back, as he would a superior rooster.
Just my 2 cents.

 

[Majestic Lane Poultry]

Good point gritsar. They will test you. Usually from behind, lol. When a new one is testing his stuff, I walk with a leaf rake. Be very scared of the leaf rake!

 

[michiganlarry]

All good advice. Thanks.

 

[Gonzo]

Darn Good Point! Right On!

Quote:

 

[Mahonri]

You almost have to wait until they are 17 weeks to decide. By then they should be crowing, doing the dance and you should be able to judge their looks, how they act, etc...

 

[Chris09]

"Be very scared of the leaf rake"

I like that... And it works too....
Chris