Mother Hen or quiet Roo?

I currently have 4 roosters in 2 pens and have raised many more. What we have found works pretty well is to let the kids love on them as much as they want until they are about 8 weeks old, give or take. Then when they go out to the main coop we take a hands off approach. When they are young and full of themselves I like to put them with one of my older demanding hens (who won't let them get away with being rude). Also when they begin to think of themselves as boss rooster, for a couple of weeks (or days depending on the rooster) take a walking stick or broom out with me. I gently swing it back and forth and move forcefully (like I have a purpose) through the chickens especially towards the rooster. If he is in my way he will get gently tapped by the swinging stick. It establishes my personal space quickly. They usually only get tapped by the stick once or twice before they learn to move out of my way when I come. After that I carry the stick for a few days and then I usually don't have a problem with them. I have my kids do the same thing. He sounds like a gentlemen to the ladies and likely will be a good rooster once he settles. If you are new to roosters I would suggest just one rooster in with your ladies to begin with as you learn to work with them. You can also do a bachelor pen with your roosters. Without the hens they may get along well since they are being raised together.
 
From growing up on a beef farm, I can tell you that getting male animals "used to humans" can be a very bad idea if they're mean at all. (One of my cousins was nearly killed by her father's bull once.) If they're just a little bit wary of you, they'll usually stay away.

Your petting your rooster doesn't make him mean. But if he becomes mean (and many do) and he's used to you, you will usually be the first target as hormones surge.
Oh, Well if he tries to turn on the person who raised him he'll regret it lol
 

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