by Kim Berg, CoopCrate staff writer
The decision to own a rooster is a tough one, and depends on a lot of factors. Roosters are the classic “face” of chickens… they are stunning to look at, and their infamous cockle-doodle-do can make your heart sing! But is a rooster right for you? Keep reading to find out.
Reasons to Avoid Rooster Ownership
1. Your city does not allow them. Hens are permitted in many cities and towns, but roosters can be a different story. Many cities have noise ordinances and therefore prohibit roosters because of the early crowing. Unfortunately, it is impossible to muffle or conceal the noise of a rooster’s crow, and you can be fined for having one! Check your city’s Municode to see if roosters are permitted before making the decision to own one.
2. Roosters can be aggressive. A rooster’s job is plain and simple… to protect his hens and reproduce. With the protective instinct, rooster’s are known to act aggressive towards pets, children, and even you as their owner! However, roosters that are handled from a young age tend to be more friendly and manageable. And luckily, there are some breeds of roosters that are more docile, such as Orpingtons, Silkies, Brahmas, and Cochins.
3. Roosters do not produce eggs! This is an obvious reason that one might turn down a rooster. If your primary reason for chicken ownership is egg production, then a rooster would be a pointless addition to your flock!
Reasons to Own a Rooster
1. They are stunning to look at. Roosters tend to be colorful and eye catching. They often carry themselves with a confident presence, making them fun to have around.
2. You enjoy the crowing. A crowing rooster is certainly not for everyone – especially those that like to sleep in! But if you’re an early riser and appreciate the farm feel created by a rooster’s crow, you might enjoy having one around.
3. They can expand your flock. If you have the space and are looking to breed your hens, then owning a high quality rooster is the way to go. One rooster is usually suitable for 10-12 hens.
4. Roosters will protect your hens. This is one of the main reasons that people choose to own roosters. Your hens’ overall egg production might increase, as a rooster will make them feel safe and secure. In the presence of a predator, roosters will give warning signs to the hens, which will send them running to safety. A rooster is willing to face a predator head on and will do anything to keep your flock safe, which will help you breathe easy.
Make a plan regarding your goals for your flock, and this will help you make an educated decision regarding rooster ownership. Some love the cockle-doodle-do, while others will put a pillow over their ears. Some are looking to expand their flock, while others prefer to expand their egg basket instead. Rooster ownership is not for everyone, but it may be right for you!