What roosters have the best dispositions?

[krichardson]

Hey I have three different breeds of roosters. I have to get rid of one possibly two because my flock is not that big (about 18 girls). I know the temperment varies on each actual bird, but they are young yet, they eat a ton, and Im going to have to give away one or two anyway, so I might as well start looking now. I have a Salmon Favorelle, Black Jersey Giant, and a New Hampshire red. I have three children six and under outside constantly and the chickens and roos will be free range most of the day. Any experience on what roos have the best disposition and make good guards of the flock out of the three? Any opinions will be appreciated!

 

[krichardson]

typo, actually we have 15 pullets if that changes anything

 

[Stephanie739]

My new hampshire roo was the first to go for me. He jumped at people and pecked.

 

[Cetawin]

It is not a breed thing although some breeds are naturally more aggressive than others, temperament is very individual. Spend time with your boys and judge their personalities and temperament based on them individually not their breed. A young cockerelwill not come into his own until around 4 - 6 months old...that is when you start seeing their true colors but they do not mature for 2 years really.

A rooster can become aggressive at any point but usually they display biting and attacking behavior when they reach sexual maturity. I do not care how good your rooster is...never leave small or young children with him unattended and any age. These small creatures who make noises and run and make jerky movements can cause even a good rooster to get defensive. Remember the job of the rooster and think from his perspective....what kids see as playing a rooster can see as threatening.

I have had wonderful roosters and buttheads....good one and bads ones within the same breed so judge your little boys as individuals.


Good luck to you.