How often does a rooster eat?

[azhenhouse]

O.K., I have a EE Rooster that I brought home two weeks ago. He is 7mths old, and seems to be healthy. He is still learning how to be a rooster, and is very funny to watch. Anyway, the one thing I have noticed is that I don't see him eat. He came from a rescue where he wasn't given fresh veggies and treats because of their budget. I was told that he eats scratch, cat/dog food, and oyster shells. When I go out to feed the hens or take treats to them they gobble it up in nothing flat. He just stands there looking all confused. If I put scratch down they, the hens, eat it but he doesn't. Is it because I am there and he doesn't feel safe? Maybe he likes to eat in private.

Is there something else that I should be giving him? I just want to make sure he is eating properly. I don't want him to starve to death.

Oh, one more thing. When I put food down he makes funny noises at it and kinda dances around it. Hard to explain. Is this normal behavior? Does he let the hens eat first? I hope not cause they eat it all up.

 

[ScotianChick]

Sounds like he's trying to offer it up to your girls first. My rooster scratches for his own food and eats breakfast with the ladies but if I bring out treats, he picks them up and offers them to the girls first. Or he points at them with his beak. He only very occasionally takes a treat himself.

You have a gentleman on your hands it seems.

 

[Liamm_1]

I used to think my roosters were a bit 'slow' when it came to treats. Until I realized they actually are letting the hens partake. The roosters will often grab something in their beak, and let a hen take it from them

 

[BHep]

Agreeded.....sounds like normal rooster behavoir to me..

 

[azhenhouse]

Thanks everyone, it does seem like I have a gentleman.

 

[sourland]

He's calling the hens to eat. Most roosters will even pick up then drop food for the hens. Sounds like you got a good one. People who tolerate the nasty over aggressive roosters should see such a rooster in action.

 

[dsqard]

Yup I agree with the other posters. My rooster does the same thing. He will just stand there and make his "girls there is something tastey here" noise and doesn't eat any for himself until they have all at least gotten some of the treats. I think it is adorable that a good roo will do this.

 

[The Tinman]

Also what he is doing is being the look out. If Mrs Hawk is around he will warn the girls.(another funny sound)