MUST one keep roosters in a flock????

[azygous]

I'm sure you've made up your mind by now, but I'll contribute my opinion regardless.

No one needs roosters except for possible entertainment value and to expand the flock. The hens don't need them, and most prefer not to be bothered with their silly attentions. Nor do the hens need roosters to aid in egg production.

If you are annoyed by your roosters, and you won't suffer any regrets, by all means have them butchered and enjoy the meat.

As for me, I have enjoyed having the three roosters I've had over the last several years, even the one who insisted on daily combat with me. But none of the roosters have been allowed to pester the hens unless I want some fertilized eggs.

 

[gambit2178]

I have had my chickens for a little over a year now. It originally consisted of 8 pullets, but then I got a beautiful pair of AOV silkies, so there were 9 pullets and Mr. rooster. Before he mature, the girls all look pretty, relax, happy. Once mr. hit mating time the whole flock went crazy. Hens started losing feathers, all day long I heard the hens whinning when he tried to do his thing.
Long story short, what made me change my mind was watching as two broody hens came out for water and were literally raped by mr. rooster. Poor girls laid there exhausted and gasping for air. So, two days laters he was gone. I did notice the girls missed him for a day or two, they would call him and since there was no call back, one of my hens took his place and now she runs the show.
It is a totally different feeling now, there is the occasional girl fight but not screaming for help and they can actually take their time eating, sunbathing or dustbathing without feeling as if someone will jump them from behind.
So, bottom line is roosters are gorgeous but the girls don't need them or want them for the most part.