Do I Need a Rooster?

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   Many people often wonder if a rooster is needed for hens to still lay eggs? 

   The answer is no. If you want fertilized eggs, leading to cute little fluffy chicks - Then yes, you'll need a rooster. But if you're just looking for daily eggs for consumption, then no rooster is needed to be present. Hens will still lay eggs no matter what, being part of their natural purpose in life. 


3 Reasons to HAVE a Rooster: 

  1. They help protect the hens. 
   
  Hens are said to become much more bold, with a rooster in the barnyard. Becoming more apt to explore your whole premises with a man there to walk around and protect them. Hmm...Sounds a little like us human girls!:) Giving you a greater chance of having all those bugs eaten up on your property too. 
  Roosters are also known in helping ward off outside predators. Although they aren't going to be able to keep those big guys away, they'll do their best in thinking/doing so. 

  2. They fertilize the eggs. 

  As we all know, they of course fertilize the eggs. That's one of there sole purposes...That is, if you want those fluffy chicks. Just like humans, hens produce eggs on their own, but require a male in order to produce babies. Which then leads to a broody hen, or brooder to hatch the eggs. 

  3. They look kinda cool. 

  Some people just like roosters for their looks. I must admit some of them do look kinda cool! Their long-silky feathers, bright red combs, and beautiful colors....But that's all beside the point, if you can't stand their crowing at 5 am. Some may like it, while others don't. I guess, it just depends on what people prefer. 


3 Reasons to NOT have a Rooster. 

  Alright, so we've brought up the points as to why you may want to HAVE a rooster. So here's the points as to why you may NOT want a rooster. 

  1. They can be mean.
  
  Roosters can be very mean...Which can be dangerous to smaller children. Some say it depends on the breed - Where some will be more-aggressive, while others less-aggressive. They are also known to be very protective towards their homestead. When visitors, (referring to people) come on their territory, they will yell, fluff their feathers, and chase them trying to let them know, "This is my territory." I have heard this from so many people with roosters, while have also seen it. 

 2. They may be illegal. 

  Depending on where you live, the rules and regulations could be different. In some areas roosters aren't allowed. Be sure and check that out before considering getting a rooster. 

3. They can beat up your hens. 

  The process of mating for a chicken can be a little violent. If you have too many roosters, for the number of hens in your flock, you might find hens missing feathers on their heads and backs, while suffering from injuries. 
  It's recommended to have 8-12 hens per rooster if you want him to service all the hens. If keeping all the eggs fertilized, is not something you're worried about, then 1 rooster would be just fine, for several dozen females. 


   We've never had a rooster. We really haven't considered getting one either. Our main purpose for our hens, is just to have fresh eggs. It really just depends on the person and what they prefer/want them for. 


Have an amazing Tuesday everyone!!

This is an exciting week for me...Artist night at the Colorful Cupboard is Thursday night, then Prom is Friday!!!