I need help determining what this is

[tjones33]

 

[CountryFlock]

Can it be both

 

[sourland]

It looks like a Cornish X cockerel.

 

[tjones33]

I don't know...can it? I have only had hens for the past two years and know nothing about roosters or meat birds.

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

I don't know...can it? I have only had hens for the past two years and know nothing about roosters or meat birds.

Well, yes, in that meat bird are still going to be both sexes....but technically birds under 1 year are cockerels/pullets not roosters/hens. Most meat birds are processed well before 1 year of age so (cornish at 6-10 weeks, slower growing broilers around 12-14+).
Your bird does look like a cornish cross and most likely a cockerel

 

[tjones33]

It looks like a Cornish X cockerel.

I didn't want a meat bird...is it inhumane to let it live? It has taken on the roll of a rooster protecting the 5 youngest hens.

 

[tjones33]

I have never done a forum before and must say this fun and educational...Thank you all for helping and giving your input! I like to read online but sometimes just getting real answers from real people is what I am looking for.

 

[Kiki]

I have never done a forum before and must say this fun and educational...Thank you all for helping and giving your input! I like to read online but sometimes just getting real answers from real people is what I am looking for.

Where did you get him and how long have you had him?


Unfortunately Cornish cross chickens are not really meant to have a long life.

 

[tjones33]

Where did you get him and how long have you had him?


Unfortunately Cornish cross chickens are not really meant to have a long life.

I got him/her at Tractor Supply with my other hens 13 weeks ago.

 

[tjones33]

She/he make the noise like a rooster