How many Roos should I order to look after 12 Hens ?

[JoeOxfordCT]

Good Morning,

Well after months of no chickens I'm ready to give it a try again. Last time was sort of an unexpected (and expensive) disaster. See my previous posts from last Fall & Winter:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=28366
https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=27603
https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=24885
https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=24053
https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=23492

I am now going to fully enlose part of my run so as to avoid the whole hawk issue. I am also going to be adding many plantings both inside and outside of my run too give some added cover.

This brings me to my question. Last time I did not get any Roos until it was too late. Now, when I place my order for chicks I am also going to order (I'm guessing) 2 roo chicks for the 12 pullet chicks I'll be ordering ??

How many roos do I need to keep an eye on the girls ? I still plan on letting them free range in my yard when I'm home. Otherwise they'll be locked in their coop each night and in their run during the day.......

I'm planning on ordering a mix of Silver/Golden Laced Wyandottes, Australorps, & Buff Orps. Of those breeds which would have the most protective instincts, while being gentle with my kids...if those two behaviours can coexist...

Thanks,

J.

 

[ravenfeathers]

Quote:
i'd just get one. the "formula" is 10:1 and 12 isn't that far off from 10.

 

[lurky]

I think just one rooster would be best for your girls. I have one little banty rooster in with my 9 big girls and he wears their feathers down a bit.


oh yeah......Welcome back

 

[JoeOxfordCT]

Quote:
That was my first thought but I worry if something should happen to that roo, especially before he matures, then I'll be stuck. I'm trying to avoid having to mix birds of different ages down the road....at least until I'm prepared....

 

[1Speckled Hen w/Chicks]

The Buff Orp Roos usually have great personalities and are good with children---most of the time--unless you get a rare one!

Hope it all goes well for you this time!

 

[hinkjc]

Roos are easy to come by if needed...I agree with one for the 12 ladies.

Jody

 

[JoeOxfordCT]

Quote:
So if the girls are all free ranging in my yard he'll be able to keep after everyone ???

I can't get over how many hawks & rabbits we have in our area.....you'd think one would take care of the other.......I realize losses are inevitable but I'm trying to learn from my past experiences and keep them to a minimum....

 

[1Speckled Hen w/Chicks]

With 12 hens 1 Roo will be able to protect them fine--and your hens will also have a chance to get a "rest" every once in awhile too, and not be tormented too much by his antics!!
Hawks can be awful things--Place some plastic owls around your property as well for added help...

 

[rooster-red]

One is all you need for 12 hens.

 

[JoeOxfordCT]

Any thoughts on which breed I should order my Roo from ?

Buff Orp
Australorp
Silver Laced Wyandotte
Golden Laced Wyandotte

Again...looking for good protective instincts for the girls without being overly agressive with my own girls; 16, 10, & 3 yrs old... : )

I have heard good things about Buff roos....
On looks alone, both shades of Wyandottes are gorgeous.....