What does everyone do with their cockerels?

[masako85]

So, out of my 10 sexed hen Orpingtons, one is definitely all boy! I was just wondering what everyone does with their cockerels if they live in a residential area and are not allowed to keep them?
Thanks in advance!
Masako

 

[Egghead_Jr]

Butcher at 12 to 14 weeks of age for a good tender bird that can still be grilled. If butchering is not your thing then put an ad on craigslist to give it away.

 

[Barngirl1111]

I give mine to good homes

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

For me, the answer would be, "the same thing I do even though I don't have a restriction on keeping them - process for consumption or sell/give-away".

 

[enola]

Wait until he crows then eat him !

 

[karib574]

I found someone who wanted my little guy on a Facebook group I am part of. She says he reminds her of a rooster she used to have.

 

[TRMFAM]

Good thread...we are praying for all girls but if we have any Roos hoping they are nice...if not thinking possibly Craigs List and considering processing. The FB idea is great too and probably have better odds of finding a good home that way.

 

[masako85]

Thanks guys! I've never processed a chicken before so wouldn't go that route myself. Do local butchers sometimes do this? I have no issues with butchering, but do believe that you should make death as swift and stress free as possible. Having never done one, I would worry I would fail on that front.

 

[keesmom]

Thanks guys! I've never processed a chicken before so wouldn't go that route myself. Do local butchers sometimes do this? I have no issues with butchering, but do believe that you should make death as swift and stress free as possible. Having never done one, I would worry I would fail on that front.

You can ask on your state thread of anyone knows of a poultry processor. Or try posting in the Meat Bird forum. If you happen to live in MA, NH or ME I know of several.

 

[Gossie]

We live in an area that is allowed to have roosters, but we had more roosters than we did hens. Our hens began to get injured from the rooster's manly behaviors. We ended up giving 4 away to people we knew who wanted roosters.