roosters vs pullets

[cmsearles]

I have 8 new chicks that will eventually need to be integrated in with my established flock. This is the first year that I have a rooster to contend with. Transitioning has been easy before, but I am worried about the safety of the chicks with the rooster. Any recommendations on how to easily transition everyone?

 

[keesmom]

Any good rooster will help care for chicks, not harm them.

How and at what age do you plan the integration?

 

[donrae]

I've never had a problem with the roosters. It's the mean old hens you have to watch out for!

 

[Ridgerunner]

I've had a rooster help a broody take care of her chicks. I've never had a rooster attack chicks.

 

[ChickenLegs13]

I've had roosters who's sole purpose was living in the brooder/grow out pens to help the hens with the chicks. My last one flipped out one day and decided he didn't like chicks anymore and started attacking them. He got the axe. Some act just like old hens, clucking & fussing over the chicks and feeding them, some are aloof and don't care, and some are mean, it just depends on the rooster's personality.
I don't do any transistion or intergration period, I just throw them together and you can tell in about 30 seconds if it's going to work or not.