Teenage rooster in the spring

[Hep44]

We have a young rooster that has been a little extra feisty this spring. He usually leaves us alone, unless he thinks we are hurting one of his girls. However, lately I have noticed him come after us after we turn our backs to him. Is this normal? We had another rooster that got too aggressive that we had to cull, but he would just come straight at us.

Also, any tips on how to get him to chill out would be welcomed as well!

 

[sourland]

Squelch his behavior before it escalates. Some, if they survive this teen aged phase, can become good roosters.

 

[Hep44]

Squelch his behavior before it escalates. Some, if they survive this teen aged phase, can become good roosters.

I'm hoping he straightens out, he was kind of a derp for the longest time, and then he seemed like he was going to be a really good boy

 

[Folly's place]

This isn't good, and will likely escalate. You can try to change his little mind, but be ready to send him to freezer camp if necessary.
@Beekissed , @BantyChooks , and @Shadrach have articles that might be helpful for you too.
Good luck!
Mary

 

[writerskramp]

Normal for some.. A crinkly empty feed bag kept my Banty away, as did keeping a feed bucket between him and me.. also found das boot just encourages him.. Once stuck him under one, that gave him paws for a cause.. When his sons grew up, they chased him off.. guessing they prefer to eat regular.. My latest addition of Black Jersey Giants added another rooster, GIANT! Now Mr. Poor Attitude runs away..

 

[writerskramp]

I'm hoping he straightens out, he was kind of a derp for the longest time, and then he seemed like he was going to be a really good boy

Their attitude can change in a flash.. Mine was just fine till one day a friend walked in the run with Carhart's with unzipped leggings like wings and similar color work boots.. Guess it would look like a challenge.. from that day forth, it was on.. Spring was the worse, all those raging hormones. Teenagers!

 

[neo71665]

It's normal but you better put a stop to it now before it gets out of control.

 

[Folly's place]

There's 'normal' and there's 'bad normal', and guess where he fits in? Here we keep cockerels who spend their time with their flockmates, not plotting attacks on humans who show up. And idiots attack the giants who bring food every day!
We've evolved from having attack birds, and carrying weapons, to zero tolerance, and life is better for us, and our chickens. Drama is not better out there!
Mary

 

[Hep44]

For now we're trying to adjust his behavior and hoping it's just worse with spring fever right now. He hasn't ever actually attacked us, just runs towards us. I just thought it was strange that he'll wait until our backs are turned.

I'm hoping he changes, because he's really gentle with the hens and great with feeding/escorting them. But if he keeps this up he might have to become dinner

 

[Folly's place]

Last year one of my adult roosters started running towards me, and then acting all innocent. Then following me from behind, and again, if i looked at him, all innocence itself. I knew better. The day he struck my leg from behind was his last day. Small wound through my jeans, but too much.
At least wear jeans and boots or shoes out there, somewhat less damage that way.
Mary