In every thread about picking a rooster or keeping/not keeping roosters the experienced people always ask what goal the OP has for keeping a rooster. I'm still feeling my way along and thinking about how to choose between my cockerels and trying to figure out what my goals actually *are*. I thought it would be both fun and helpful to discuss our different goals and, for the more experienced, how those goals may have changed over time.
My first goal is sustainability, because I want to be able to hatch chicks rather than buy them -- acknowledging that I'd probably buy some anyway unless I end up with a tight breed focus and the goal of developing a line of a specific breed.
Second, I actually *like* to hear a rooster crow. So the sound of his voice will influence my choice.
Third, my flock has to do well in my climate and under my management system.
All human-aggression is automatically out. Not only do I have grandchildren, but I'm not interested in bleeding myself.
Additionally, there are certainly enough chickens in the world that suit my aesthetic preferences that I can afford to say "No red or yellow, period" without having to compromise on things that are objectively more important than color.
Beyond that, I'm still figuring out my goals.
My first goal is sustainability, because I want to be able to hatch chicks rather than buy them -- acknowledging that I'd probably buy some anyway unless I end up with a tight breed focus and the goal of developing a line of a specific breed.
Second, I actually *like* to hear a rooster crow. So the sound of his voice will influence my choice.
Third, my flock has to do well in my climate and under my management system.
All human-aggression is automatically out. Not only do I have grandchildren, but I'm not interested in bleeding myself.
Additionally, there are certainly enough chickens in the world that suit my aesthetic preferences that I can afford to say "No red or yellow, period" without having to compromise on things that are objectively more important than color.
Beyond that, I'm still figuring out my goals.