Rooster living near hens?

[aliceb]

I am new to chickens and don't have any yet. I'm doing research first

I'm considering getting some pet/layer hens and I'm not sure about getting a rooster.

My question is: if I have a shelter and run with hens in it and I get a rooster but don't put him in with the girls but instead put him in a shelter that's next to the girls, is that ok or does a rooster need to be with hens?

 

[hallerlake]

If you want fertile eggs, the rooster has to be in the run with them. If you want not fertile eggs, you don't need a rooster at all.

 

[aliceb]

I'm not planning on having fertile eggs right now, but maybe in the future?

 

[andalusn]

A rooster is always happier with a flock of hens, not so sure the hens feel the same way

Some people will have two pens and cycle the rooster in with the hens for about 3 days and then put him back. This gets you fertile eggs but he can't use the hens too much and wear them out. A favored hen will show signs of her favoritism within in time and those feathers don't grow back until molting time. I have one that is blind in one eye.. she's very easy to catch and looks it too. Now she wears her camo jacket for protection.

 

[turbodog]

Not a lot of point to having a rooster if you don't want him with the girls. You can always add one later if you decide you want fertile eggs.
Fertile or unfertile, they don't taste any different.

 

[aliceb]

Quote:
Oh the poor girl

Was it from the rooster?

 

[aliceb]

Quote:
I think I agree with you. I just wasn't sure. Thank You