When should I get a rooster?

[DDRanch]

I am thinking again of adding a rooster to my flock. I had a horrible experience with a neighbor's rooster last year when it killed one of my girls so I have been reluctant to add one. I have never had a rooster but have been keeping hens for about 8 years.

My current flock is aged 3 to 7 years old. I will be adding about 6 chicks in April. I have the large breeds.

I have 3 questions...

When should I get a rooster? Now or wait until April when the chicks arrive?
Should I get a full grown rooster or raise a chick?
Will my current flock accept a rooster having never had one around? (except for the killer rooster)

Appreciate your comments and advice.

 

[chicmom]

I think you would have the easiest time adding the rooster to your chick order.....Or, if you know someone with a rooster that is a bit older, like two years or older, they're nice to get because they've gotten over their teenage (heavy testosterone) times and they're a bit calmer.....

My current rooster is a 2 year old champion I Buckeye that I bought from another BYC member, and he's a perfect gentlemen to the hens and also to my family.

 

[DDRanch]

Thank you.

 

[uncle rico]

I am thinking again of adding a rooster to my flock. I had a horrible experience with a neighbor's rooster last year when it killed one of my girls so I have been reluctant to add one. I have never had a rooster but have been keeping hens for about 8 years.

My current flock is aged 3 to 7 years old. I will be adding about 6 chicks in April. I have the large breeds.

I have 3 questions...

When should I get a rooster? Now or wait until April when the chicks arrive?
Should I get a full grown rooster or raise a chick?
Will my current flock accept a rooster having never had one around? (except for the killer rooster)

Appreciate your comments and advice.

I'm in the same situation here, I have had hens for 2 years and would like to add a rooster for entertainment and flock protection. Will probably order a roo with the next order of chicks coming this spring. They'll most likely be Barred Rocks. Anyone have good experiences with the Barred Rock roos?

 

[theoldchick]

Having a young rooster grow and develop within an existing flock of hens would be easier on everyone. However, you do not really need a rooster unless you want breed your chickens. Although roosters are beautiful, they are not a guaranteed flock protector.