Multiple roosters - should I keep them or eliminate one

[TNchickenfarmer]

I got my birds in May. I am down to 22 hens and 2 roosters, Big Jim and Jacques. Prior to this week, there was an established order between the two roosters but no major fights. Big Jim, the alpha would merely run off Jacques or make him wait until last to eat. This week, the tides have turned and we have had two bloody battles. Jacques is now obviously the alpha. I have several questions.

1) Will they eventually kill each other?
2) Should I get rid of one rooster? Can two roosters get along?
3) Should I separate Big Jim (behind his comb there is a gash) until he is healed?
4) Is this just a "springtime" thing?

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC!

 

[1muttsfan]

It depends on how much room you have, and how tolerant the lead guy is. If they are confined in too small an area, and the top rooster is very intolerant of others, you may loose one (or both) if they get into a bad fight. Sometimes things will settle down after an initial dustup.

 

[TwoCrows]

Hi there,

and welcome to BYC!

Many times roosters do get along, especially if they were raised together. Sometimes not. Only time will tell if the lower ranking rooster is not harmed. You will have to make this decision by watching and waiting. But don't let it get so bad that one of them becomes mortally injured.

Good luck with your roos and enjoy BYC!

 

[roostersandhens]

 

[sourland]

Welcome to BYC. Unless they are game fowl and given enough space to get away from one another it is unlikely that they will kill one another. I would not separate them - that would only cause more fighting when they are reintroduced to one another. I would keep an eye on them but allow them to work things out. Sometimes after such a battle peace can be achieved.

 

[Kelsie2290]

Hello and Welcome To BYC!

 

[SD Bird Lady]

You have a decent number of hens so I think they will work it out, It is probably just a shift of power. Keep an eye on them but things usually settle down after they have established order again.

 

[BantamLover21]

Glad you joined us!

 

[gander007]