Rooster Hen Question

[mattsse]

I realize this is a dumb question but I can't find the answer in any of my books. I ordered 20 mixed sex Plymouth Rocks, I plan to put most of the roosters except a couple in the freezer when they're big enough and keep the hens for laying. I wanted to keep a rooster or two for the crowing and so we can try to get a hen to brood some little ones. My question is, if the rooster is mating the hens how does that effect the eggs since we plan on eating them?

In other words if we want to eat the eggs should we keep the rooster separate from the hens or does it not really matter if they mate than we collect the eggs?

Thanks,

Matt

 

[Backyard Hencam]

You will have fertilized eggs if the rooster has access to the hens. This does not effect the quality of the eggs. Some people prefer fertilized eggs and will pay more for them in the health food store. Have fun with your brood!

 

[teach1rusl]

Doesn't matter a bit. I've eaten eggs without a rooster present, and with a (very active with the ladies) rooster, and there is no difference in the eggs' taste or appearance (unless you know exactly what to look for).

 

[mattsse]

Thank you everyone!