How do you choose a rooster?

[PrairieK]

I have 3 Black copper Maran roosters and only want to keep one. 2 look identical and the other doesn't have as much of that brown around his neck. But I find his tail feathers prettier than the other two. And he is the only one that crows at the moment. Does that mean he is taking charge? Thanks for any info.

 

[Mrs. K]

To do it right, one should consider the standards of the breed, but really, pick the nicest prettiest one you like.

Mrs K

 

[PrairieK]

I really don't plan on hatching chicks but just to have him around to keep an eye on the girls while they are free ranging and what not. The cockerels are 12 weeks old and as of yet none attack anyone or anything. They are not "friendly" bc they are scared, but not mean.

 

[Hayduke27]

Be sure to keep the "nice" part in mind. I'd advice you to keep the roosters as long as you can, as once their hormones kick in, you may find that one or more may turn out aggressive. If this is a case, obviously the mean roos need to be relocated, possibly to the freezer. A good rooster will not pick on the hens, and will be very watchful for danger. More importantly, a good rooster will recognize you as the boss. If any of them show any sign of aggression toward you, that's not a good roo!

 

[PrairieK]

Thank you very much for your advice. That's what I'll do. Is it around 6 months that their hormones get going?

 

[Hayduke27]

Yes, typically by 6 months you'll start seeing the changes.

 

[Den in Penn]

14- 16 weeks is when they start to mature and the changes start.