I like to handle my roosters every night to ensure that they stay friendly etc. My alpha rooster has very large spurs and I want to trim them so I don't have to worry about him accidently getting me with them. I'm not sure how much to trim them. Does anyone hate any suggestions
You can usually see the quick growing inside them. Trim just before it. I use a large dog nail clippers. It's best to have some Kwik stop in case you bleed them. Just pack some on the bleeding end.
Using a fine tooth hack saw, I cut so you have a peg that is 3/4 to 1" long. There will be some bleeding but result will not come at risk of shattering spur. With really old males, it is sometimes needed so walking in is not obstructed. Longer spur can also be hard on the hens.
Have you ever just pulled the outer sheath off with a hot potato and a pliers? I have seen that method, but have not tried it. It looks easy enough, but I value your advice. My two year old boy is getting some big ones, and I thought I would reduce them before winter. Mrs K
