Ziggy1973
Songster
I'll try to keep this long story short. Thirteen months ago I ordered 14 female chicks and 1 male chick. As time passed it became apparent that there were 2 cockerels. The less dominant one seemed to be a late bloomer, not sure if that's normal or not, but seemed to not be so interested in mating. Fast forward a few months and suddenly my girls are being constantly mated by both boys. I eventually got rid of my dominant rooster as he had become extremely aggressive but the damage was already done. I had 4 girls with completely bare backs and feathers missing off their heads and wings. I thought things would get better with the more easy going rooster in charge but I've noticed a couple more of the girls are showing signs of being over-mated now. I have 2 coops so I'm wondering if I should separate out the bare back girls until their feathers grow back? How long would that take? Or would I just be setting up the other hens to be over-mated as well? Bert is a good rooster aside from this but wonder if it's worth keeping him around. I know there are benefits to having a rooster even if you aren't wanting fertile eggs but my girls being happy and healthy is my priority. Thanks for any insight or advice!