Protective Roosters are awesome

[GldnValleyHens]

So myWhite Cochin pullet was outside in the snow and unknown to me at the time, was attacked by a hawk. Someone in my family had seen this hawk roosting above the coop while the chickens screamed, and she chased it away.
When I went out, Rachel’s head and comb were bright with blood, and chunks of her fluffy back had been ripped out. I was horrified at this clear evidence of a hawk attack. I found the spot where the hawk pinned her down, as there were tracks and brush marks of hawk wings in the deep snow. I am confident there’s no possible way she escaped on her own, as she is extremely laid back and docile, and does not fight even when kids pick her up by her wings. My Porcelain D’Uccle is in love with her, and follows her around with his little breast puffed out.

I am positive he attacked the hawk and scared it off of her, because Napoleon is aggressive and has even tried to spur our large GSD. No doubt when he heard her squawking and struggling while a nasty hawk tore into her, he rushed to her aid with his red eyes burning!!! I’d have given anything to see him plow into that wicked bully and kick his butt!!! You’re not getting my girl!!!!!!
Without him, I’d be grieving for the loss of a sweet little hen who’s quickly become our favorite. So proud of my crazy, protective rooster!!!!

 

[ChickenCanoe]

I'm quite fond of good roosters too.
I lost birds to hawks from time to time till I started keeping one or more roosters with each flock. I haven't lost a bird to hawks in years. I've even seen a rooster take a hawk out of the air that dive bombed him.

 

[GldnValleyHens]

I'm quite fond of good roosters too.
I lost birds to hawks from time to time till I started keeping one or more roosters with each flock. I haven't lost a bird to hawks in years. I've even seen a rooster take a hawk out of the air that dive bombed him.

I’ve lost two birds to hawks, and it seems they always target my best birds. The more diligent male eyes, the better!!! I have three roosters and one male guinea. The Silke rooster is especially cautious of any flying thing, including other chickens. Screams every time lol.
I’d love to see that! What an awesome rooster!

 

[ChickenCanoe]

Yes, they are awesome. But, I would never expect any true predator protection from a silkie rooster. How would they even see a hawk approaching?
I will be in an outbuilding when all flocks are out foraging free range when I hear the roosters making the aerial predator call. I'll step outside and all the hens have run for cover. The roosters are all standing tall facing the same direction like statues. I'll look into the same direction and finally see a hawk approaching. They can see a hawk coming long before I can. Usually the hawk will hesitate and then move on. On one occasion a hawk came in for the kill. The rooster flew up to meet it and took it down. Then the rooster slowly walked back to where the hens were hiding. The hawk didn't move for a bit and finally struggled to its feet, staggered a bit and flew off.
Years ago, I lost birds to hawks, mostly meat birds or youngsters. My flocks all free range all day now and I don't even concern myself with hawks any more. I do see them swoop through from time to time but no losses.

 

[GldnValleyHens]

Yes, they are awesome. But, I would never expect any true predator protection from a silkie rooster. How would they even see a hawk approaching?
I will be in an outbuilding when all flocks are out foraging free range when I hear the roosters making the aerial predator call. I'll step outside and all the hens have run for cover. The roosters are all standing tall facing the same direction like statues. I'll look into the same direction and finally see a hawk approaching. They can see a hawk coming long before I can. Usually the hawk will hesitate and then move on. On one occasion a hawk came in for the kill. The rooster flew up to meet it and took it down. Then the rooster slowly walked back to where the hens were hiding. The hawk didn't move for a bit and finally struggled to its feet, staggered a bit and flew off.
Years ago, I lost birds to hawks, mostly meat birds or youngsters. My flocks all free range all day now and I don't even concern myself with hawks any more. I do see them swoop through from time to time but no losses.

Wow what an amazing guy. So cool!!!! That would be really nice not to have to worry about your girls, they are all protected! Yes my Silkie can offer no form of defense, all he can do is scream! He’s a coward, like most Silkie roosters. At least he warns them though.

 

[Muscovy Wunda]

Roosters are awesome. I can not praise them enough for the stories I've heard, truley fearless. I wittnessed my own take on snakes, goannas, feral cats, dogs and birds of prey. He didn't just protect his hens, he even looked after the ducks. I also have a strong feeling he took on the fox that ultimately finished him off.

 

[GldnValleyHens]

Roosters are awesome. I can not praise them enough for the stories I've heard, truley fearless. I wittnessed my own take on snakes, goannas, feral cats, dogs and birds of prey. He didn't just protect his hens, he even looked after the ducks. I also have a strong feeling he took on the fox that ultimately finished him off.

Aw that’s too bad that he died. What an amazing roo!!!