Should my roosters come to dinner?

[americanchicks]

I have 2 roosters in my flock that are about 3 and 1/2 months old. I got them as mixes not knowing if they where hens or cockerels, there dudes. Im not ready for roosters in my flock so I have two options. One is to take them back where I got them, he said he would if they turned out to be cockerels. Two turn them into supper. Never having butchered a chicken I have a few questions: Since I don't know the breed would they be good for eating? If they aren't good for eating Ill just take them back. Is there any special diet they need before you do it? Also when should I do it? I read that if you wait until they are mature they taste gamey. They are not crowing but definitely are sparing and bulling the smaller birds. So should my dinner plans include roast chicken this weekend? thanks for reading

 

[greenegglover]

I ask whats for dinner, but I think I know. You may want to consider keep one rooster to help protect the flock. There are great youtube videos to show you how to properly butcher a chicken.

 

[wyoDreamer]

If they are an egg laying breed, they may not have much meat on them. Even when full grown, don't expect to see a grocery store chicken after plucking.

That said, I have had homegrown chicken twice and can't wait until I can raise my own. Both that I had were old stewing hens, but the flavor was out of this world. I have had stewing hens from the grocery store, but it can't compare.

If you decide to keep them for eating, it is frequently recommended here on BYC to raise them till at least 12 to 20 weeks old.