Roosters

[ResidentLunatic]

Hi

This might seem a silly question but figured since I'm new to this you will let me off.

I currently have 9 hens and 1 rooster. One of my hens is broody and I've given her 6 eggs to hatch (due on 25th May). I've no idea whether I'll get males or females. I chose more rounder eggs than pointed following info from Google.

Anyway I was wondering when they hatch and grow what will happen if I have a rooster in the chicks? Will I be able to put him with my current rooster and 9 hens (plus any other females that hatch) or will I have to get rid of him? What do you all do with your excess roosters? I was under the impression it was one rooster to ten hens, but can two live in the same pen or will I have to separate them? Current rooster is a big black and orange brahma.

Thanks ever so much

 

[dinosaw]

Hi RL

Obviously the odds are 50/50 when hatching so if you have a really successful hatch you will have 3 lads. When they haven't been raised together they invariably fight so unless you want to run a couple of separate groups you would be better "getting rid". I eat mine either at 6-8 weeks as Poussin or preferably grow them on to full size but you do need the space to do that. You can of course advertise them as free to a good home but there are hardly any genuine people out there who want an immature lad unless they are some kind of rare breed and really you don't know who is coming for them, you run the risk of getting someone who just wants some cannon fodder to train their fighting cock.

 

[ResidentLunatic]

Hmmmm I'm not sure I could do "the deed"! Might have to get my brother in law to come and do that for me! My eldest son did want to raise the chicks for the table, but I know once I've seen them that won't happen. Ok so, it looks like if they're boys then they are for the table, best of both worlds!

17

Thanks for the advice

 

[farmer warren]

ive given up using broodys as i always end up with 80% cocks, i get better results out of my incubator!