How do you introduce a young roo to an older (2yr) flock of 14 hens???

[centrarchid]

Ultimately size will not be a problem but for short term in likely will. Show him love by making introduction slow and easy. I would commence on a day when you can be around during process. Are the hens free ranged during part of day?

 

[chuckzoo]

They have a large run and are free ranged only for about an hour in the evenings.

At what age do roos become fertile?

 

[tinychicky]

cockerals tend to get along well with older girls- for a while, they might pick on him, but they'll soon learn who's boss.

 

[centrarchid]

Quote:
My dominiques seem capable of covering a hen at 20 weeks but she has to be very willing. By 28 weeks they are very competent but they seem to really get it going at about 9 months when in full adult feather. Your bird should be able to make at least a few eggs hatch by late February to early March when best setting times for free ranging hens with chicks approaches. I like my free ranged hens to come off nest with broods in April.

 

[chuckzoo]

Is a BR the same size as a Dominique? I understand BR are in part derived from Dominiques. If so, how many eggs do you normally hatch per hen?

 

[centrarchid]

Quote:
Dominique a little smaller, body shaped more like a U and barrs on feathers not so numerous or distinct. Having them side by side helps see differences.

 

[Ridgerunner]

Quote:
I've had roos 15 weeks old covering mature hens when they were free ranging (no fences). It depends on the personality of the cockeral and hens. With a 19 week old rooster and 2 year old hens, anything can happen. They might accept him, they might beat him up, but most likely he will chase them, they will resist, but he will still manage to fertilize some eggs.

I would worry more with those than with mine as those are confined most of the day. Certainly do it when someone can be around to intervene if necessary. In the chicken world, squabbles and rape do not require intervention. Blood does. A total mob attack does.

Good luck!

 

[chuckzoo]

Thanks so much guys for the advice.

This is all very exciting news - 15 weeks - you say Ridgerunner!. My sister will be on a weeks vacation when the roo arrives. Initially I think we will have them seperated just to see how everything goes. I like the idea of introducing him to a few of the hens first. We will proceed with caution.

 

[Ridgerunner]

Yes, 15 weeks. But I consider that unusual. Just because that one roo managed does not mean all will.