rooster with chickens

[omartorres]

why do some people only have hens what about the rooster i thought the hen needed the rooster so she can lay eggs i dident realized that untile to day dats why im wondring if i should buy bb bantam trio or some thing

 

[Americana]

Quote:
A hen doesn't need a rooster to lay eggs.

 

[FrizzlesRule]

True, a hen doesn't need a rooster to lay eggs, but one is needed if you want fertile eggs. Roosters also make great pets.

 

[sourland]

As others have said, you do not need a rooster to get eggs. Some people don't keep roosters because they have had problems with human aggressive roosters or they don't want to feed a bird that 'gives them nothing.'

 

[ChickenMack]

If you want a natural flock, you need a rooster. If you want a protector for your girls, you need a rooster. If all you want are eggs, you don't need a rooster.

I, personally, keep a rooster. Why? First, asthetics, they are beautiful. Second, they keep a good watch on the girls and third, I want to keep a natural flock (hens hatch and raise the chicks- not humans and hatcheries).

 

[RoosterRanch]

You dont NEED a rooster but you should have one if allowed by local ordinance. Roosters do many things for hens other than the obvious thing which is to fertilize eggs. In my opinion, hens with a rooster are calmer and lay better due to the natural protective nature of a good ROO. Roosters keep order in the flock and break up fights amongst rival hens they also keep an eye out for predators and warn the hens of impending doom. Also a good ROO will search for food and call the hens to it. I happen to be a big fan of the lowly rooster, they are beautiful, proud and give us those lovely morning calls which say Good morning to me. Just my opinion however.