@electrycmonk Thanks for the tag. I know I don't "need" a rooster fur several months. But my understanding is it is easier to integrate them when young. But zi am a complete noob so not sure how true that is.
There is an impressive article written entirely about Roo’s.
I have it saved in my “favorites” but, can’t recall how to copy & paste in here right now… I’m already having a headache editing-cut-n-pasting this reply….
I still see myself as a “newbie” with chickens. The “training wheels” are still on.; in my view of self. These “training wheels” - as I see them - are this forum in the big picture & the WEB -fit-large; several specific users I have gotten to know rather nicely over the last 3 years.
I have raised 3 generations now.
a) our first batch of
TSC and local Feed Mill hatchlings
b) our 1st attempt at letting broody hatch out was a hard lesson. Wry-neck. I have a thread documenting the tag-team Silkie Momma’s.
c) our 2nd attempt was of similar struggle thanks to Freeze-magenden!
d) chickens not raised together need to be quarantined for typically 30 days before being near one-another, in separate spaces. Then, while the next stage of being able to see each other allows the to be separated by a crate or fence for something like several weeks.
So now I have 3 generation of hens and Roo’s.
I’ve lost several chickens now to different issues. Again, I have threads for almost all of this “learning curve.” As to allowing the Roo to adjust to the hens & vice versa…. I’ve felt the best is the use of a large dog crate for the Roo(s) to be in for several days, to several weeks. Then I’ll let thebRoo(s) out to be in the rest of the run with the hens for “x amount of time.” Think of it like recess. Each recess will get longer & longer over days and weeks. Depends on the Roo’s actions.
Oddly enough, right now I have several Roo’s in crates to give the hens a break and the Roo(s) get to cool their heels.
They have been in the dog crates for about 6 days now. I figure they will be in them for at least another week. I still have a few things to do before I can put the Roo’s back in their Batchelor pad. And the one Roo’s in his own crate because the henna needed a break and the other “nicer & 1 year older Roo” also needed a break from the harassment.
Everyone has their practice and thoughts…. Now, you can peek into my “mental attic” via the threads I have referenced above and get a better view of how I’m doing things.
I am still learning a lot! I know I will still make mistakes. Life is a long road of learning - all along the way.
Okay. Good night.