Wow, learn something new every day. We thought handling them would make them SAFER for grandkids in the long run. What a shame. So, the general consensus is get rid of the rooster. Not a problem, but I feel bad that I could have helped:/ cause it. As for the neighbor, he refuses to lock up his roosters (although his hens are caged, which is bizarre to me), but I'll send DH over, with a stern warning.....rooster on our property threatening our grandchild will be disposed of. I assume that's legal, as with any threatening animal on our property. I suppose I should call law enforcement to be sure though. Although I was raised to shoot, shovel and shut up.
Thanks everyone, learned a little more, and appreciate the comments (in our hearts we knew culling was the only answer), and to reassure everyone, after we realized he was a problem by jumping on her that first time, we NEVER allowed our dear granddaughter anywhere near him. We just weren't sure if the hens would be ok without him. Guess we'll find out. Chicken and dumplings this weekend!
I had always thought the same thing...It was wise folks here who have raised chickens a lot longer than I have that have helped me understand these animals a lot better.. We have a 6 mo old Blue Orpington Rooster.. If he is an ounce under 9 or 10 pounds I would be shocked, he is HUGE... I will never say I am not intimidated by an animal, I would freak if he ever decided to challenge me, I hope he does not.. We got him when he was almost 5 months old and so far so good, but because I didn't raise him and don't know how he was treated before coming here we will not allow the grandsons 3 and 5 out to gather eggs without us.. We have tried to teach the boys how to walk and act but he is such a big rooster I don't blame them for being skittish.. As for me, I treat him as I would one I have raised and as of now he moves for me, He does not meet me at the gate nor does he crowd the hens to be in front and next to me.
As for the rooster on your property, I agree that it is your right to put down any animal that comes onto your property and harms or threatens you and yours. You will be surprised that you will have a hen who will become the Dominant one and may even act roosterish towards the other hens.. Although I have two roosters, one of my BA hens always tries to be top dog
