Rooster aggression? I've messed up.

[Futuregreenefarm]

I am pretty sure I've read this in an article or a thread but I've researched those and can't find it. My neighbor's rooster comes into my yard daily with his hens. I made the mistake to throw them seeds only once or twice. One of the hens lays behind my house and I collect her eggs and keep them (with owners permission) so that's why I thought I would help feed them some. The rooster used to just move on when I came out. And even with the seeds, they just ate and left. Now when I come outside, he hangs back and pecks the ground picking up sticks and grass and dropping it. What does that mean? I already take my broom cuz he did run up behind me once before. It's getting frustrating worrying about being in my own yard and he crows constantly all day and I don't want him to think he can take over my pullets too. They are in a run so surely he isn't trying to "protect" them but just his hens right?

 

[igorsMistress]

He's trying to tidbit you and make you his girl so to speak. He's showing you he has nice things to give you.

I would talk with the neighbor and let them know he's a problem. Immediately.

In the mean time don't chase him or feed him. Walk with confidence even if you are carrying the broom although a lighter small branch about broom length and as big around as your thumb or so would be easier to manage than the broom. Ignore him like he's not there unless he comes after you to fight. Walk past and make him get out of your way but you can't show hesitation. Confidence and THIS IS MY YARD attitude is key.

 

[chickens really]

He isn't attacking you. He is tidbiting and showing you feed etc. He crows in your yard because he thinks that's his territory. He actually sound like a good boy..

 

[sean_wonder]

I agree with above post. Sounds like a good rooster and was trying to tidbit you. I wouldn’t bother the neighbor unless he’s truly attacking you (hissing, fluffing his neck, charging, chasing, etc) constantly or the crowing is bothering you a whole lot.

 

[Futuregreenefarm]

I've always thought he was a good rooster and fairly docile at first. He works hard to keep up with his hens. I see that. The neighbor is family and an older widow. Alot of us that live in the neighbor are family and "put up" with her chickens who are always loose. I've kinda enjoyed them until this started. They made me want to have my own. I just don't know how to act with them now as I'm not experienced enough.

 

[chickens really]

Just go about your daily activities and remain aware of the Rooster. Never turn your back to him. He doesn't sound threatening.

 

[Futuregreenefarm]

The crowing doesn't bother me. As long as he isn't showing aggression I am okay. I will try working with them more as I would like it to work out okay. I've read many articles here but I'm still really bad at knowing how to handle certain situations.

 

[igorsMistress]

It's not that he isn't a good rooster. Good roosters are there for their flock to mate and watch for predators and sound the alarm if one shows up. They tidbit to sweet talk the ladies...see, I'm a good guy, I'll give you treats.

If you end up feeding them, I would treat him specifically and let him call his hens to the treats.

The attitude of confidence is necessary regardless imo. He's in your yard, and you're obviously concerned he might attack you or you wouldn't carry the broom. He'll get smart about the broom and when you go out and forget it he may challenge you.

Good luck.

 

[Chickassan]

Just leave him alone that is the best way to handle this situation.
You've fed him and his ladies.
You have pullets in a run.
He thinks you're an o.k person because of these actions.
Guy can't even tidbit these days without being labeled a maniac.

 

[Futuregreenefarm]

Thank you for the good advice everyone. One last question. Do you think he would try to pull in my pullets if I did let them out? I keep mine up cuz I don't want them to roam the neighborhood.