Multiple roosters question

[5 Points Wingfeather]

I think I know the answer but what are the chances I can keep 2 roosters with 10 hens if

a) they all grow up together
b) the breeds are known for docile roosters
c) there’s more space than recommended


Is it at least worth trying? I can always get rid of the rooster I like the least. Or is it pretty much zero percent chance of working out?

 

[cherrynberry]

I think I know the answer but what are the chances I can keep 2 roosters with 10 hens if

a) they all grow up together
b) the breeds are known for docile roosters
c) there’s more space than recommended


Is it at least worth trying? I can always get rid of the rooster I like the least. Or is it pretty much zero percent chance of working out?

It may actually work out, especially if the roosters are smaller, but I feel like there isn’t a need and it will most likely end up with overmated hens...

 

[JacinLarkwell]

Totally poasible, just know its not guaranteed. I have 2 flocks with 2 boys in each and at most 10 hens in one and about 4 hens in the other (normally 9 or 10 but I have a lot of broodies in that group all the time).

Also will add that apart from literally one hen I moved from the first flock to the second, never had an oberbred hen, and the one I moved recovered without a hitch

 

[CalBickieMomma]

I think it’s worth trying. I had two RIR brothers (with fewer hens), and it worked out at first. The problem arose when one of my girls got severely injured by one of the boys. I added on to the run and put the boys in their own space, but eventually they ended up having disagreements.

If you want to keep them and have to keep them penned, maybe separating them from the girls is the best bet. I have 3 bantam/American game fowl crosses living in a bachelor pad together. People thought I was crazy to think they could coexist, but after a few scuffles, they get along pretty well (but there are no hens to fight over).

Having said all that, I’d still leave them as they are and see if they can live peacefully together. Just make sure the hens aren’t getting overwhelmed with two boys going after them all the time. Good luck!

 

[Ridgerunner]

I agree with the others, the chances of it working are much better than 0. For some people it works fine, for others not at all. Some males fight to the death while others may reach an accommodation on how to work together to take care of the flock. You may never see any fighting or what you do see is mostly chasing and running away. Having a lot more room than the minimum suggestions really helps your chances.

The girls may become barebacked or be over-bred. Or they may not. You just don't get guarantees with this one way or the other. This can happen whether you have one boy or two.

My suggestion is to try it but have a plan B. Have a place ready where you can instantly isolate one boy from the other or even both of the boys from the girls. If you do have a need it can come pretty quickly. I get the feeling they haven't been through puberty yet. That's when it is most likely to get really exciting.