Too much Rooster!

[Novice Homesteader]

I have one beautiful Rooster, like one in a storybook. He is friendly, tame, and does his job in protecting the flock. The problem, He is too Virile. He is a larger rooster than my hens and when he does his biological responsibility, he does it a lot and the hens are getting damaged. From bloody backs/no feathers from his claws, to injured legs, too bloody combs. Some of the hens are getting more damaged than others, the smaller ones seem to be the worst. In addition there is the jealousy of some of the hens, when he pays another one attention and they will attack that hen, while he is taking care of his business. I want to find him a new home with larger hens, but nobody except unsavory owners have expressed interest.
Seeking advice. (or a new home)

 

[nuthatched]

How many hens do have? Saddles are an option, as well.

 

[Novice Homesteader]

How many hens do have? Saddles are an option, as well.

8, varying ages

 

[nuthatched]

8, varying ages

Might want to get a few more if possible, are some hen saddles.

 

[DemeterAD9]

How old is he and what breed is he and the hens? 8 hens isn’t bad for one roo but more would be better if space allows. Young cockerels typically under a year old will be very active with chasing the girls around. If the hens are not allowing him to breed them but instead are running away then it sounds like he might not be a very gentlemanly fella. A good rooster will dance for the ladies and if they are willing they will squat down. If they are unwilling he should leave them alone and go for someone else.

Are they penned up or allowed to free range? If they are confined (especially in a smaller run) then the problems are likely to be worse than if allowed to free range.

Size difference between the rooster and hens can certainly be a problem if he is a big guy. But I’ve seen my black Jersey giant mate with my only bantam EE and she has been perfectly fine other than some muddy smudges from his feet.

Saddles may help with damage to their back but I would also try trimming his spurs and nails if it looks like they need it.

I know it sucks to get rid of a well behaved beautiful rooster but if the hens keep getting hurt and you are unable to rehome him where he will be happy then you owe it to the hens to take care of things yourself. If it comes down to it, I would probably butcher him but also hatch some eggs out to carry on his legacy.

 

[Mrs. K]

Wishing this will work, won't change anything. Always solve for peace in the flock. He is not working with your girls.

I am assuming you are afraid of the soup pot? by unsavory people? A big idea, is that once he is not your bird, you don't have any input into it. Don't ask questions.

You might reach out to your county extension office, for some 4H clubs, or poultry clubs. Sometimes you can find people that might need a rooster like yours.

Mrs K

 

[Novice Homesteader]

I found a place for him, but 2 days before rehoming him, a skunk killed him and 2 hens, right at dusk. Probably would have killed the rest but they had started going into the coop for the night. New issue: trap skunk (completed!) Turns out they like mini powdered donuts.