Your rooster should be fine,,, and I don't think his presence is contributing to some of the issues you are experiencing. :idunno
As long as Rooster is not dangerously aggressive,, to you, or family members,,,(especially children) , he should be fine with your flock. Are there restrictions on...
Consider asking around in your area/neighborhood, if anyone is interested in chickens. There are sites like Nextdoor, and Facebook marketplace as well. The ones local to your area.
You can also post your message on the Massachusetts State thread. It is not overly active,,, but new...
Drill a 1/8 inch hole in top,, or on side of bucket near the top. No worry about a vacuum issue.
Here is a tip,,, for HOT areas.
Chickens will not drink hot water. Keep your waterer in the shade,,, and also throw in some ice inside.
Make sure your chickens know how to drink out of...
You can and it should be good. Here is an article you can read,,, with much info.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/the-essential-guide-to-feeding-baby-chicks.78337/
After reading, you will be better informed, and can make a better decision.
I am not sure how long the coccidiosis vaccine is active for. That is one reason many peeps use Medicated feed for their first starter feed. When that bag is eaten,,, chickens build up their natural immunity, and medicated feed is no longer given.
The bloody stool is usually due to...
I suggest you get Medicated Starter feed,,, and that may be the best option.
What vaccination did your original chicks have been given? There are more than one vaccine given to chickens. That is why I'm asking.
WISHING YOU BEST,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,and :welcome
Only suggestion I have for you,,,, Post your message on the Texas State thread. This way you have readers in your closer vicinity.
Here is the link.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/texas.44/page-5405
WISHING YOU BEST,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,and :welcome
That sand will be just fine.
You don't have your location in your profile. Reason I am asking??? Climate does have a factor in satisfactory use of sand. In very humid areas, peeps did not like using sand. It got musty if not dried.
I'm in the upper mid-west, and sand is fine in my...
Without pictures,, its kind of hard to give detailed advice.
Can you make the run larger,,, and include the wood pile inside??? Then as you remove the wood during winter,,, just step into run to get some. When wood is gone,, you will have additional space.
A run can be any shape that is...