Roosters and chicks

[Chickeeta]

I've got some 7-week old Australorp chicks... looks like 8 little cockerals and 6 pullets. They free-range during the day, but run around separately from the older hens and rooster, doing their own thing. At night they all return to a single pen and coop. At what age will the rooster become interested in the pullets? And when might he challenge the cockerals? I don't plan to keep all those cockerals, by the way, but am curious about how this works.

 

[TexasVet]

He may challenge the young roos at any time, but generally when they reach mating age. The mature rooster will become interested in the pullets when they reach egg-laying age, which is 5-6 months old.

Kathy, Bellville TX
www.CountryChickens.com

 

[nivtup]

The rooster and the cockerals should start working on the pecking order around 12-14 weeks. They will probably work it out without too much battling. Although we had two RIR that went at it off and on for a few weeks before the Rooster had them in line.

They will start to show interest in the pullets as they reach point of lay, must be a hormonal trigger.

 

[Chickeeta]

Can always count on folks in the forum to answer any questions. Thanks!