Roosters and Laying Behavior

[catdaddy66]

I know that no rooster is needed to get eggs, only to get little chicks. But I wonder if the presence of roosters near to laying hens have any physiological effects on the hen that improves any part of their cycle. Many animals have spikes in hormones or enzymes that increase reproductive readiness in the females by the presence/nearness of the males. In the information I have read no correlation has been stated to point to any benefits but I wonder...? Do any members know of any positive influence the presence of a rooster has on the hen's reproductive cycles?

 

[rancher hicks]

Well there is talk that a flock with out a rooster might inspire one of the hens to "become" one. In the sense that she crows and behaves like one. Not to the point of breeding mind you. It is rare though.

Now roosters help keep order among the flock. IMO they help with the dynamics of the social situation. Rooster don't tolerate fighting among the girls and sound off if someone starts having a squawking fit. If there is trouble he will sound the alarm.

Chickens have a lanquage of their own and studies have been done. When you sit with your birds and observe them you will see.

Now you must read the book "Chicken Joy on Redbean Road" by Jacqueline Briggs Martin and no one should be without a copy of "Minnie Rose Lovgreen's Recipe for Raising Chickens". Minnie makes some good points for having a rooster.

Not just any rooster will do either, some aren't so good at their jobs. Others are really good though. If you can have one then I say get one. Nothing sounds nicer than a rooster crowing in the morning.


I wish you the best chickens experience ever,

Rancher Hicks