To keep a rooster, or to not keep a rooster

[Chickassan]

I would keep him for now simply because winter is coming and predators get quite a bit braver when food isn't plentiful. That fella could be a valuable early warning system or even a noble sacrifice to protect your hens. He's only 12 weeks so if you end up having to eat him in the spring he won't be the best but he won't be terrible. I would wait until spring to add new hens as well, that was the weather isn't working against you and things that eat chickens have much more to choose from than your ladies.

 

[Erin80]

I'm in the "keep him for now" club myself. I have a silkie rooster who is about 20 weeks old....and 9 hens, two of which are silkies that he sticks with. He's attempted to dance for my barred rocks but gets immediately pecked and runs away. He's a good boy so far, so he gets to hang around. First sign of aggression to anyone though, and he's gone.

 

[Mrs. K]

I too would keep him through the winter, then in the spring re-evaluate. I like having a rooster. However, they are an easy in, easy out bird. If you are not going to hatch until the spring, then keep him till then.

I don't think I would add birds this time of year, but sometimes one does get a great opportunity. If you do, then cull.

MRs K

 

[DT12]

If you have the room. I say let him stay until he gives you a reason to remove him like mine. My wife has been telling me all week our roo has been aggressive and chasing her haha. I just blew it off until today he attacked me. Tomorrow he gets to meet our freezer!