I'm Over it!.. am I over it? Roger Mr Dootie Booty

[SunnyPines]

I posted about my Rhode Island Red rooster Roger in the beginning. He is somewhat deformed. He has a leg that looks like it's out of joint the way it grew. It prevents him from squatting properly so his backside is constantly a mess. I have to bathe him at least every two weeks - it really should be every day honestly. Since it's been cold however he hasn't had a bath in 2 months! Yes he has rocks of yuck stuck back there now! He still gets around, runs around, crows, and mounts the hens as often as possible; however he is never going to "mate" because he can't tuck. It's kind of humorous to see the girls swing their tail feathers so far to the side and pucker out for him but he just can't meet them. He does however get them quite dirty. My Ginger Isa Brown now has feathers pulled almost off one of her wings. I knew/was afraid this would start happening the older they got. (chicks from Tractor Supply 5/3/25). He is docile compared to stories I've heard about roos - he is chivalrous too giving up treats for the hens (or its just a ploy to get them close so he can mount). Anyways, I haven't made it to the free range time frame to witness his protection instincts yet, as I was waiting until the one year mark before I thought I would let them out of their run to explore their chicken yard that is surrounded by Premier 1 net fencing. I just hate seeing him mount the hens knowing its to no avail... I don't want to see my girls featherless unless it's due to molting. Ugh... is it time to cull?

 

[thecatumbrella]

Hi Sunny.

Roger sounds like a happy guy despite his deformity. Have you tried giving him a butt trim instead of a bath? I have a pair of safety scissors that I use to clean up the fluffiest girls, and it really does make a difference with how much collects back there.

Is he wearing feathers down on all the girls, or just the ISA Brown? If he only has a couple favorites, look into getting them something called a chicken saddle. It's a little apron that goes over their back to protect these areas, allowing the feathers to grow regrow.

Of course, if he's driving you nuts, it might be time to cull. You could also look into rehoming. Some people really enjoy taking in animals with disabilities.