Raising a Rooster as Part of Your Backyard Flock: Discussion Thread

[Woytgirl]

Yeah. Especially since I want to breed chickens, I have to pay attention to that.

 

[Shirley531]

Alas only last week my roo had to go. He's normally fine, but (as with last year) a rush of spring hormones (?) meant he started acting up and challenging me. In the past the 'put him under my arm' method has resolved. He's a big lad, I'm only petite and he just caught me with his spur that was like having an ice pick driven deep into the side of my knee. Happily there is a recent 'vacancy' for a male in a neighbour's flock (more space, more birds) so he's on trial there. Sad, he was a nice bird and I'll miss him but not prepared for another hospital visit on his account.

 

[ChickenLover200]

Alas only last week my roo had to go. He's normally fine, but (as with last year) a rush of spring hormones (?) meant he started acting up and challenging me. In the past the 'put him under my arm' method has resolved. He's a big lad, I'm only petite and he just caught me with his spur that was like having an ice pick driven deep into the side of my knee. Happily there is a recent 'vacancy' for a male in a neighbour's flock (more space, more birds) so he's on trial there. Sad, he was a nice bird and I'll miss him but not prepared for another hospital visit on his account.

lways best to put your safety first. You made a good decision.

 

[orchardflock]

Agreed. I like my chickens, and I like my little Ebony rooster, but if he attacks my kids or hurts me, he's going.

 

[ChickenLover200]

Not easy to see a chicken go, but I agree! @orchardflock

 

[Woytgirl]

X2

 

[ChickenLover200]

Anyone have any questions about roosters?

 

[salsss]

Yes. People prize a rooster who is gentle with his girls. I have one who is friendly to me, but the girls' feathers!!!!....at least 5 of them have all of their big feathers pulled out near the tail, and one has a bald spot on her head. Is it time for him to go? I have a little cockerel in my new chicks this year....I was thinking of putting him in "jail"..the little red coop on the other side of the yard.

Some girls hang out with him but he chases and pecks one of the others, and it seems he's bullying her.

 

[ChickenLover200]

Possibly. How many hens are with this rooster? If there aren't enough hens he may be over mating.

 

[salsss]

He had 13 hens. I re-homed him to a great flock with a senior rooster....he's doing fine! My flock is ever so calm right now. Even while integrating juniors! Now we will see which of the 5 cockerel chicks we will keep...