How long can I keep my toms with my chicken hens?

[Suzy I]

I bought two, day-old turkey chicks about five weeks ago at the feed store. It was an impulse purchase (hey, at least I don't bring home impulse buys from the jewelry store, right?). Incredibly, things have gone very smoothly. They have grown freakishly fast and seem to have a good disposition. I kept the turkey chicks and chicken hens apart until about ten days ago, and other than a few squabbles at the introduction, everyone gets along fine. I think it helps that everyone has plenty of space and separate feeders.

Anyway, it is looking like my turkey chicks are toms. I planned on sending them to freezer camp in November, but I am worried that they will get interested in my hens before then. Two questions: First, I am assuming that toms are not very particular about the species of poultry they will hump. Am I correct? Second, at what age to toms start getting interested in the gentler sex? Thank you!

 

[QueenMisha]

I currently have four adult toms. I have never seen them display any interest in my chicken hens. My Broad-Breasted males last year didn't show any interest either. In fact, they're quite cordial even to their own species! Unlike a rooster does, the toms don't seem to chase females; the only time I've seen them mate was when the hen ran across the yard, and sat herself down right in front of the males.

They do occasionally step on them, though, when they're all scrambling for feeder space. I feel sorry for my poor hen's feet! Getting stomped on by those huge dinosaur legs has got to hurt.

 

[JonathanL23]

They would attempt to mate till around * months old. Even if they mated you female would just lay a egg. I have a tom hes with his girl friends 24/7