When breeding ....

[RollinWithTheStones]

I have a silkie roo and he is NOT the dominant guy in the coop. I've never seen him mount a bird and they all pick on him. I see my Cochin bantam mount the girls.

I put him and two of my small girls in a cage together. How long do you think it will take for him to feel confident to do his rooly duties?

He's five months old and is very gentle with the girls.

 

[Domestic_goddess]

I don't think there is a definate answer for you. But, 5 months is still pretty young. I bet you'll notice breeding soon though. Good luck!

 

[sourland]

Well, 5 months is quite young and his hormone levels have been diminished since he has been subordinated by the dominant rooster. Once you hear him crowing and see him mating the hens, your eggs will most likely be fertile.

 

[RollinWithTheStones]

Okay, the cochin is the same age as the silkie. I was just wondering if I separated the silkie if it would kick in that he's supposed to be doing the deed.

 

[Domestic_goddess]

Yeah, I would probably seperate them.

 

[sourland]

Okay, the cochin is the same age as the silkie. I was just wondering if I separated the silkie if it would kick in that he's supposed to be doing the deed.

Yes, but not until his testosterone levels come back to normal. A dominant rooster in enclosed quarters can severely diminish the hormone levels in the subordinates - sort of like reversible caponization.

 

[RollinWithTheStones]

Hmmmm, maybe I'll keep my cochin until after the easter hatch then give my silkie the rule of the roost.