I really need a new rooster, worried about fighting.

[eggsrcool]

My hatch rates are terrible, pathetic even 1/6 of eggs hatch when I tested a while ago, I'm testing with a broody now, and I even have to purchase fertile eggs. I'm thinking of adding a new rooster to the flock to increase the hatch rates, but I'm worried about fighting. Should I inctroduce a rooster slowly or not at all? Could I seperate the flock, so Ican see if the new rooster will 'service' the hens more?

 

[Mahonri]

Some roos got it, some don't.

You put the roo in, you let him get a little hen pecked but eventually (if he's big enough) he'll rule the roost and then you test again.

 

[speckledhen]

Do you mean put a new rooster in the same pen with the current rooster? I wouldn't do it. They wont mesh, I'd bet. And be prepared to stop bleeding.

 

[miss_jayne]

put him in at night while everyone is sleeping. they'll have no idea and it'll be easier. (after detaining him in quarantine for at least 30 days of course!!!!!)

the sneak attack at night works wonders i have found.

 

[miss_jayne]

oh, and i posted while speckledhen was typing and wholeheartedly agree...only one dude at a time. remove mr. sterility first!

 

[eggsrcool]

Yes, I do mean in the same pen, but what about if I seperate it, so one can be with my current rooster, and the hens I want to breed with the new rooster.

 

[AHappychick]

I agree some roos just arent the best at it. If you need an extra roo I have tons