Um....isn't he a little young for that sort of thing?

[Chickstarrs]

My cockerel is only 12 and 1/2 weeks old. Yesterday and today, I witnessed him mounting one of my hens, who by the way, happens to be twice his size. After the deed was done, she snapped at him and shook herself out . He, on the other hand, sidestepped her and did a little "happy dance" (it was actually kind of funny). So I am wondering, isn't it a little early for this? He hasn't even learned to crow properly yet. At least he has chosen one of the mature hens and not one of the young pullets. They are both barnyard mix chickens.

 

[MarkJr]

My cockerel is only 12 and 1/2 weeks old. Yesterday and today, I witnessed him mounting one of my hens, who by the way, happens to be twice his size. After the deed was done, she snapped at him and shook herself out . He, on the other hand, sidestepped her and did a little "happy dance" (it was actually kind of funny). So I am wondering, isn't it a little early for this? He hasn't even learned to crow properly yet. At least he has chosen one of the mature hens and not one of the young pullets. They are both barnyard mix chickens.

Nope. 12 weeks is right in the thick of things. Hopefully he’s nice about it.

 

[Chickstarrs]

Nope. 12 weeks is right in the thick of things. Hopefully he’s nice about it.

I didn't see any issues going on and she allowed it. Who knows what is going on when I am not around. I will have to keep a close eye on the situation. I also have 3 more up and coming cockerels that I am going to have to deal with earlier than I expected.

 

[MarkJr]

I’d assume if the hen didn’t whip his butt that it’s happened before, and he’s not being a jerk.
My laying pullets have beat up my young cockerel so much that when he is successful, I’m actually rooting for him!

 

[Chickstarrs]

I’d assume if the hen didn’t whip his butt that it’s happened before, and he’s not being a jerk.
My laying pullets have beat up my young cockerel so much that when he is successful, I’m actually rooting for him!

I have witnessed it twice but it definitely could have happened more often.

 

[aart]

Yesterday and today, I witnessed him mounting one of my hens, who by the way, happens to be twice his size.

An adult hen(over a year)?
He must have some moves.

 

[Chickstarrs]

An adult hen(over a year)?
He must have some moves.

Yes she is an adult. Not exactly sure how old she is. I got her mid-june. She was supposed to be 10 months to 1 year and was already laying.