Herne13
In the Brooder
- May 31, 2016
- 6
- 1
- 34
Our rooster recently went to the great beyond (RIP Gentleman Hank, you served us well) and we acquired a new, quite young (9 weeks old) rooster. He is 3/4 American Bresse and 1/4 Rhode Island Red. He is now a bit older than 12 weeks and we were wondering if it was time to let him hang out with the girls? They hens range between 9 month and up to 3 or so years old with one exception of our matronly hen (Big Mamma) who is not much even in the pecking order anymore. most are under 2. Bobby (the new rooster) has been kept in a smaller pen, one normally used as a maternity ward, so has had daily exposure to the girls (which there are 11 of but two seldom breed, Big Mama and our Silky) and all of have checked him out and few try to peck at him anymore. I am mildly worried about introducing him because of the rule of pairs and am concerned he will get the tar beat out of him. So, i turn to y'alls for advice and experiences. Is 12 weeks too soon? He is of decent size, as in as tall, if not taller, than the hens but lacks in girth a bit still. Recent picture attached.