When I ask for advice, I sift through what I think works best after considering all factors. Asking advice on the net is different because we cannot look eye to eye, see body language, voice inflections. We do not know the personalities, nor emotions of the moment. Respectfully, I'd like to share on the commentary about tigers and such as pets. I have a friend who takes in wild animals (legally) whom have been taken away from owners, or from zoos who for various reasons can no longer keep them. She has tigers, two lions, bears, and lots of other animals. The hardest ones to retrain are those whom have been housebound. They are no longer accepted by their peer breeds, nor are they able to relate in a home settings. Some from homes were given up by confused owners whom don't understand why they regressed. Some react to commands (the zoo pushes that this from a saftely and inspection standpoint is important, and to learn behaviour modifications). They've done their homework, researched. But with animanls who's nature is to bond with like, regardless of what we as humans think, they need each other. Just as we humans need each other. Tigers on the other hand, well, it only takes one time, right? I live within spitting distance of the San Diego Zoo, and am personal friends with the lead caregiver of a very popular animal there. I also am friends with a couple whom take in large birds of prey (raptars) whom cannot physically go back into the wild because of injuries. Yes, you can TRAIN some of all to respond to commands, but given the opportunity, they will be what they are meant to be. Don't get much press on all the escapees here, but it does happen. While there have been no dangers with escapees, when an animal senses danger, there is a chance. A bunch of years ago, a mama elephant escaped because her infant escaped. She panicked and tried to chase him down. He paniced because this was outside his environment, and they eventually went off the zoo property and to the street. Now, it took trainers to convince them to do what was needed to get back to their given home, but Mama wasn't going until she trusted her baby was ok, and until she could focus on what the trainers wanted of her. Yes, the zoo learns about elephants, takes excellent care of them, and because of this we learn more about elephants. They may live longer, healthier, even with creating a fluid environment through time to best match their needs. But watching and studying elephants, they are happier when in their pods of family. They expand on social skills. I understand your worry and concern regarding this very cute young rooster, but given equal energy and time on both sides for him to discover might give you a better feel for what works.
I am not asking to be cruel or discourtious, but have you considered the value and different approaches to intergrating him back into a relationship starting with just one hen, maybe younger? Would he be more content spending the nights in a bathroom or inside/harnessed, or given the best chance of trying, outside?
One thing for certain, no one can disagree that you are showing a love for what is your responsibility to raise!
Blessings,
Karen
