Pullet and Cockerel inseperable

[boxermom]

I have a 20 wk California 'White pullet that just started laying. She is always with a BO cockerel. When they are out and about, or when she is in the nest box, he is always there. We will be butchering all but 3 cockerels next month. I've been watching to see which to keep, but haven't had much luck deciding. They are all nice so far. Anyway, if I kept this cockerel, would he take care of other hens too or just his favorite. If I got rid of this cockerel, would that hen adjust to any other cockerels? I'm just wondering if he is one I should or should not keep. Thanks for your input.

 

[gritsar]

I would keep him. He's probably minding his manners because there are other cockerels in the flock. He'll manage to service the other hens as well. His girlfriend will get over her jealousy when he does.
My Lil'Bit hated my rooster (Thor) when they were little and there was another roo in the flock. Now she follows him everywhere and preens his feathers for him day and night.

 

[boxermom]

Thanks for your reply Gritsar. They are kind of cute together and I was hoping I wouldn't have to mix things up. I'm glad they will adjust.

 

[gritsar]

That's not to say that the other hens won't pitch a fit the first time he tries to mate them. He has to earn his place at the top of the pecking order.

 

[boxermom]

Right now, no other hens are interested. I have straight run, so am running about 50% hens/roos. The cockerels are willing but the pullets all have headaches.

 

[Joecola123]

one of my cockerels is like that he is a silver laced cochin and even though he likes the other hens he has always been most attatched to one of them i would keep him