Your goals for keeping chickens, the coop/run space you have, and what climate you live in, could help dictate 'how many'.
Keep in mind....
The 'rooster' to hen ratio of 1:10 that is often cited is primarily for fertility efficiency in commercial breeding facilities.
It doesn't mean that if a cockbird has 10 hens that he won't abuse or over mate them.
Many breeders keep pairs, trios, quads, etc
It all depends on the temperaments of the cock and hens and sometimes housing provided.
Backyard flocks can achieve good fertility with a larger ratio.
Also..... integration is a whole other learning curve, and your boy's behavior could change dramatically when new birds are added. At 4 months old his hormones are just starting to flow, his 'sweetness' may well disappear.
Keep in mind....
The 'rooster' to hen ratio of 1:10 that is often cited is primarily for fertility efficiency in commercial breeding facilities.
It doesn't mean that if a cockbird has 10 hens that he won't abuse or over mate them.
Many breeders keep pairs, trios, quads, etc
It all depends on the temperaments of the cock and hens and sometimes housing provided.
Backyard flocks can achieve good fertility with a larger ratio.
Also..... integration is a whole other learning curve, and your boy's behavior could change dramatically when new birds are added. At 4 months old his hormones are just starting to flow, his 'sweetness' may well disappear.
