should we get a rooster? If so what kind?

[raymondjames]

Oh you want a rooster!!! THey protect the flock and girls, and lead them and are good friends, they also keep the eggs fertile so if you ever hatch. If you dont hatch, a friend who wants to hatch could buy them off you. ROOS FTW!!! If you get one, I recommend a chick and either a silkie or cochin bantam. Bantams eat less food so they cost less (I'm not gonna push it because you're leaning towards no rooster) Raise them to be a nice size to the hens (besides the fact banties are smaller) and then just introduce him. He will court the hens, fertile eggs in 1-2 weeks. Crack the egg open and there are two results.


NOTE::: You have 18 hens. A decent ration cockn is 1:8, 1:10, or 1:12 (heard them all). From basic estimates, you would be best with not one, but two roosters to fertilize your hens.. Of course, your decision.If any roos are aggressive, separate then rehome.

A) Blastodisc (infertile) white spot on egg, looks like this O




___
/ \
B) Blastoderm (fertile) white donut on egg, looks like this | O |
outer circle is rounder/circular. \___/

 

[Lollipop]

Guess I see things a little different. If you decide to go with a rooster, get a mature cock. Just one. You can pick out one with a good personality and attitude. Also, he will simply take charge of the ladies and treat them with respect. If you decide to hatch some eggs, pen him alone with 3 or 4 of your best hens and you will have the fertile eggs you need in a few days. It doesn't matter much what breed he is as long as he is mature. A young rooster will incur the wrath of all the older hens and pullets as they will resent his intrusion. You will love having a rooster..........Pop

 

[SilkieCrazy123]

I think any roo could be tamed. To tame him around his ladies, put him in a cage , and sit there for a few hours each day(or less) and play with the females, right in front of him, so he learns that there's a boss bigger and higher in rank than him.I myself alwaysa play with any new chicks everyday , and they get tamed.

 

[Meara]

I consistently breed sweet natured friendly roosters that can be picked up and cuddled. My birds are bantam Easter eggers. If you lived closer I'd gladly give you one! You should look for someone like me closer to home who selectively breeds for friendly birds.

 

[stormylady]

Ok I don't know if you should get a Rooster, but if ya do, I Suggest An Orpington!!! My Zeus is an absolute doll! Hes good with his girls, good with people I can't think of a single bad thing about him, Hes 3+ yrs old and just gets better with every passing day! He even protects chicks from the mean hens when they pick on them! YEP an ORPINGTON is the way to go! LOL