at what age can a rooster start to fertilize eggs?

[quailss]

at what age can a rooster start to fertilize eggs?

 

[Mahonri]

I had a roo that was successful at just over 4 months. But most take 6 months to get fertile.

 

[Ibicella]

Depends on the breed. Anywhere from 4-8 months with the average being 6. Larger and slower growing breeds usually take longer.

When he starts actively trying to mate, he should be fully fertile.

 

[quailss]

how about a bantam breed because I have a japanese bantam rooster

 

[awesomefowl]

What about silkies?

 

[sourland]

It varies from breed to breed and individual to individual. But generally once they can make contact, they can fertilize eggs. Not just go through the motions, but make actual cloacal contact. At 6 months fertility seems to increase. Is it a factor of age or ability? I'm guessing ability since lighter, more agile, less fluffy appear to show fertility earlier than larger, clumsy, "over fluffed" breeds.

 

[Unclebean]

I'm glad this question was asked. I read somewhere that it would take 8 months to a year. But I like what I'm hearing on BYC better

We have 4 roos 8 months old and they are all taking their turn with the girls and have been for a few months.

 

[Runawaylobster]

My BCM is mating with all my hens allover the place but nothing when i incubate the eggs yet. He is only 18 weeks
I guess he must just be practising

 

[BY Chicken Lady]

My Barred Rock cockerel has been chasing all the girls around the last few days. Only my laying hen will squat for him...so far. I watched him appear to get the gymnastics down pretty well, then he jumped off and she stood up and fluffed her feathers then checked her own bottom. Do you think he is already fertile and completing the task? He is only 13 weeks old.

 

[Zaxby's2]

I wouldn't think your BR could be fertile already but what do I know. I've got a question since we're talking about when he becomes ready to fertilize eggs, at what age do they lose their fertility?