Lost my rooster.....

[Mrs. K]

if you got hit by a predator, they will be back. Your free ranging days may be done.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

When a rooster disappears always suspect a predator like a Fox or coyote. Often a rooster will go out to face the predator and get taken. It's always the good ones. I would keep an eye out for more disappearing birds. Mine will often not go outside after a predator attack.

I find my multiple roosters an asset as far as look outs. They are pretty good at it. I have only lost 2 birds this past season to predation out of over 100 poultry.

You can find a mature adult rooster to add to the flock, but that always brings the risk of diseases. I will often buy a few choice breeds of chicks in the spring so I have a few to raise and pick from. Not every rooster is a keeper, so having multiple choices is always better, especially since you are willing to butcher extras.