Rooster Questions

[Rhalar]

Ok So I am preparing to start a small flock of my own. I am looking forward to having Chicks next spring so I can get used to taking care of them before the harsh Maine winter sets in. Currently I am planning on a semi-supervised free ranging flock. I really like the protective aspects of having a rooster.

What I am most worried about is finding a developing embryo in an egg. Specifically my Girlfriend, Girlfriend's Mother, or my Mother finding an egg like that. if they were to find one like that they would never crack open a home grown egg ever again. I have heard people say that if you check for eggs everyday you'll have no problem. Realistically is this the case or does one slip in every now and again?

How about Caponizing the Rooster? My understanding is that if you do this the Rooster loses all of the protective qualities that I am looking for.

Also I have seen a few Coop and Run Designs with separate "Roo houses". Is this necessary? Suggested?

And Lastly I have heard all sorts of stories of Roosters going toe to toe with all sorts of threats. Invariably these end with the Rooster giving his life for his flock. Should I expect to lose my rooster in situation where the flock is under threat from predators?

Thank you.
Brandon

 

[HEChicken]

First, unless the egg is incubated (either in an incubator or under a hen), no embryo will develop. You will likely not even notice the difference between a fertile and infertile egg when eating them.

Second, a rooster does not have a great ability to protect his flock in that he doesn't have much in the way of defenses. A rooster vs. a predator will almost always end up with a dead rooster. A good roo is always vigilant and will warn the flock of potential danger - but beyond that, don't expect him to go head to head with a racoon or coyote and come out ahead.

 

[Rhalar]

Thank you for the quick reply.

Concerning the Rooster's defensive abilities this was nothing that I wasn't expecting. And I am ecstatic about the fertilized eggs. Most of the time that the flock will be out of the run will be when I'm home so I should be able to respond quickly to a rooster's warning and chase off anything bothering the chickens.