Oddly Aggressive Rooster* *(Only when not being cuddled...)

[Lizzy733]

Definitely have spacial boundaries.

I think the problem is that roos in the brooder are real charmers and they get used to being allowed to fluff up to your hand and do playful bumps to their heart's content when they're tiny. (I started flipping them right away in the brooder, so they know this is what happens if they challenge me and started the 1 meter rule around 10-12 weeks old.) If you look at them around 'mom', there gets to a point where she starts pushing them away too and I know my hens are still quite assertive with my boy. They've been quick to establish their own boundaries with him and show him what they do and don't tolerate.

Once again, persistence. The lesson will stick eventually and they may still challenge you on occasion, just as they would another flock member to try their luck. You just have to be at the ready to shut that down right away every time like clockwork.

 

[Henhouse Harlot]

I think I saw some other people say their roosters change behavior after a year but I'm not really sure if that's true (mine's 9 months or something)

My fingers are crossed! He's about 2 1/2 months away

My advice is keep him at a safe distance ( 3 ft) If he tries to come closer wave him away .
If he refuses to walk away catch him and hold him down until he submits Repeat this every time he gets within 3 ft. of you. Approach him as much as you like but don't allow him to approach you. Make him submit every time he approaches you.Its harder for him to attack you from farther away This doesn't guarantee he'll stop attacking you but you'll have more time to respond.He may try to run at you.

Sounds like a solid plan, I'll start doing this immediately! Thank you!

 

[Henhouse Harlot]

Definitely have spacial boundaries.

I think the problem is that roos in the brooder are real charmers and they get used to being allowed to fluff up to your hand and do playful bumps to their heart's content when they're tiny. (I started flipping them right away in the brooder, so they know this is what happens if they challenge me and started the 1 meter rule around 10-12 weeks old.) If you look at them around 'mom', there gets to a point where she starts pushing them away too and I know my hens are still quite assertive with my boy. They've been quick to establish their own boundaries with him and show him what they do and don't tolerate.

Once again, persistence. The lesson will stick eventually and they may still challenge you on occasion, just as they would another flock member to try their luck. You just have to be at the ready to shut that down right away every time like clockwork.

More solid advice, my thanks! I believe you are correct.