When will my boy Roo become a man Roo?

[scoopy82]

Just wondering when little Roosters . . . you know . . . start getting friendly with hens? My little Harry is about 3 months old and I was told it could be another 3 months before he starts bonking the hens - is this right?

 

[Fred's Hens]

At least. The rooster needs to establish himself socially as well. Most young roosters aren't that adept and some are too overwhelmed by hormones to be good roosters and can play rough far too often. I always preferred to judge a rooster after 12-15 months of age to see what he has truly become.

 

[GwenDellAnno]

Mine was about 7 months when he started beating up his Dad and really bothering the girls. (yes, he was removed from the flock quickly)

 

[JROOSTER]

"bonking" I dont understand this high tech medical terminology. I think you need to spell it out for me. What are you asking?

 

[DickGJ]

Quote:

 

[mariel37]

Quote:

We can draw ya' a picture ... <giggle>

 

[Judy]

Seems like if you guys are going to give the OP a hard time, you could at least answer his question.

I have 7 mutt roos who are about 12-13 weeks. One has started mating within the last week, and his crow is still pitiful. This morning's eggs were definitely not fertile. I'll be watching the eggs closely because I have two broodies I'd like to give fertile eggs. I fear, though, it may be weeks or longer before one of them actually fertilizes an egg.

You have two breeds which generally mature on the early side, at least.

 

[GreatPyrLover]

This may be a stupid question but when you crack the egg how do you know if its fertile??

 

[Judy]

Quote:
There are no stupid questions. This one is so common it's linked in a sticky;

https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=16008

 

[Lollipop]

Everything with chickens is on an individual basis. A lot depends on the breed, but certain individuals will not play by the rules. Generally, a cockeral will begin his hormonal adventures about a month before the pullets start to lay. If you are talking Leghorns, about 3-4 months. If Americaunas, perhaps 6-7 months, but individuals will vary. Circumstances also play a role. Cockerals raised with the pullets will react differently than those added to an existing flock, same with single males as opposed to multiples. Ya just gotta be patient.......Pop