How to Pick the "Best" Rooster?

[flygirl1973]

Too true! You certainly gave me stuff to think about though and I appreciate it! Based on what you’re saying, I may keep Beta male instead of bully alpha. We’ll continue to watch the games and see what happens. Both seem to have good physical appearance...based on....nothing looks too off cuz lord knows I don’t know what I’m looking for in terms of chicken body confirmation.

 

[Folly's place]

If your cockerels are of certain breeds, not mixes, then google those breed clubs. They will show 'ideal' conformation for their breed, which is helpful.
Avoid obvious conformation faults, as mentioned above. Wry tail is a big one, because it's abnormal pelvic conformation, not only about looks. Likewise any issues with the beak.
I also agree that the 'friendly' cockerels are being bold, and sizing you up, and may be less likely to turn out well.
And, I have zero tolerance for human aggression! A good rooster is busy looking for actual predators, treating his hens, and while he knows where you are, doesn't see you as a flock member to dominate, but as a separate species; the giant who brings food!
Your less dominant cockerels may change if the two bigger ones leave, who knows?
I don't hand feed or handle my cockerels, only pick them up if absolutely necessary. They aren't pets, they have work to do.
Mary

 

[flygirl1973]

Yes @Folly’s place , I have been wondering the same thing. I have looked at their feathers, beaks toes and legs and they all seem to be good which apparently is typical of Black Australorps. Haven’t caught one recently to check the pelvic area? Briefly read something about that and they walk upright, stately appearance and all. We like the alpha currently because he was the first one to come running up to us, but as you here already know, it’s bound to turn ugly. He has funny antics, but he really is a “pig” to the girls. The alpha and beta have crowing competitions almost all day these days with a third weakly chiming in every now and then. I’ve marked the two alpha’s with zip ties around their legs to ensure it’s the same two. But have a hard time telling the other two apart. Those two are the ones who stay with the girls and wait for the first two “curious George’s” to see what we have if anything for them. Curious George 1 is starting to side step up to us and has pecked my husband twice. Not. Sure he’ll last too much longer.
There is a guy who has a bachelor flock not too far from here and I wonder if it would help to send him/them there for a month or two to earn their place. It would be interesting to see what the outcome was if this guy who I’ve never met was willing to do that. Although once again, with no girls around, how does he learn that he’s supposed to be a gentlemen? I was hoping maturity would fix that but, you guys would know better than I would. Thanks again for all you’re input!

 

[Folly's place]

George is sounding very iffy to me!
I'm paranoid about biosecurity, and would never have birds return here after they went elsewhere, and I never get older birds from other flocks.
Mary

 

[flygirl1973]

Oh yes!!! How did I forget about the quarantine shenanigans! Doing that now with new chicks to plump up the girl numbers. Yeah, maybe he can go to stay... or my table .

 

[Shamo Hybrid]

Some cockerels will grow out of their rebellious stage, just give them time....... people always want a cockerel who is a 'good boy' right outta the shell but that's just not possible or very unlikely, like humans they go through growing pains and some who were once little troublemakers will do a 180 and change their ways through chicken life experience. Meaning, is it really worth all my energy and effort to attack this human being who have never once harmed us once? They get experience under their belt and learn better to manage themselves with time.

 

[flygirl1973]

Well, I have turned the hose on them. Does that count as “no harm”? They know not to get on my porch and as soon as I turn my back they’re back up again! It’s turned into a game with the squirt gun, so I made it more uncomfortable for them. No drowning of course and nothing ridiculous, just a quick squirt that will reach out and get them. We will most likely keep them until some line is crossed or the hens start to suffer or they fight more than I’m comfortable with. I do hope he grows out of it, but you just never know. Just wonder how many I’ll be able to keep until I know which one I really want. Another good point of view and this one gives a bit of hope.