never had a rooster before, so what to do with so many?

[Mrs. K]

I agree with the above advice, too many roosters will not be nice.

But as to picking which one that gets to stay... usually, when you look, there will be a couple that no, you don't want, for what ever reason - get rid of them ASAP. The longer you keep them the harder it is, and don't ask questions if someone want them. This will also help the pullets.

Wait two or three weeks, and cull again, that should take you down to 2-3 birds.... repeat.

As for the possible predators...heavy wooded area... yeah, I am pretty sure they will be back. I vote for a good fence, but then I have fed so many coons it is not even funny, let alone the coyotes.

Good luck. A pretty straight forward talk with your granddaughters will probably help.

Mrs K

 

[bobbi-j]

I agree with the above advice, too many roosters will not be nice.

But as to picking which one that gets to stay... usually, when you look, there will be a couple that no, you don't want, for what ever reason - get rid of them ASAP. The longer you keep them the harder it is, and don't ask questions if someone want them. This will also help the pullets.

Wait two or three weeks, and cull again, that should take you down to 2-3 birds.... repeat.

As for the possible predators...heavy wooded area... yeah, I am pretty sure they will be back. I vote for a good fence, but then I have fed so many coons it is not even funny, let alone the coyotes.

Good luck. A pretty straight forward talk with your granddaughters will probably help.

Mrs K

A good fence is going to help your roosters protect the flock. A rooster alone can't be counted on as 100% protection. He may sound an alarm as he goes running for cover, or he may stand his ground, giving up his life while a canine predator kills him and continues on to the hens. Coons often strike at night - a rooster isn't going to help then, either.

I agree that a talk with your granddaughter would be a good idea. Explain to her that not all the roosters can stay (or they need a bachelor coop), and maybe let her have a say in where they go, or to help process them. It is best to not ask questions when selling on Craigslist or by any other means.