[RonMinch]

Hi, Can any one suggest what can be done, I have 15 hens and had two cockerels, had, as one went for the pot last night as he appeared to be the worst offender being very rough with the hens. This has resulted in bear patches on the hens backs. I know you can get those saddle things but dont fancy them really. Do you think now theres only one cockerel it will calm down a bit?  Ron

[taz08]

if its that bad i would pot it too    get a new cockerel

[darkbrowneggs]

If he doesnt calm down you could try taking him out and only putting him back with the hens twice a week, which should give ample fertility - but 15 hens should keep him quiet anyway.  If you do try that then let him go in with them late afternoon and take him out again next morning. 


Generally if the cockerels are continually mating the hens it is because the hens don't like the cockerels and will reject the sperm, the cockerels know this and try to mate more frequently to compensate, so unless you are very fond, perhaps a new one might be a good idea.


I won't keep a cockerel that is continually mating - I respect my chickens judgement