Can Roosters Learn Good Manners After Being Separated from Hens?

Understand flock dynamics, such as pecking order and territorial behavior. Share tips on training birds to come when called, return to the coop, and coexist peacefully.
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HenThusiast
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Can Roosters Learn Good Manners After Being Separated from Hens?

Post by HenThusiast »

I have two 7-month-old roosters who were separated from our hens during the molting season.

Now that I’m trying to reintroduce one back to the flock, things are chaotic both roosters are aggressive and rough with the hens.

Did I make a mistake by separating them too long?
Is it too late for a rooster to learn how to behave around hens?

I’d love advice on how to handle this situation so both boys can have happy, healthy lives.
Thank you!
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Re: Can Roosters Learn Good Manners After Being Separated from Hens?

Post by HenAndTonic »

I think what you did was the right choice to protect the flock while they were vulnerable. However, reintroducing roosters after separation can be challenging, especially for young, hormonal birds like yours.
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Re: Can Roosters Learn Good Manners After Being Separated from Hens?

Post by CoopRebel »

It’s not too late for your roosters to learn manners!
Young roosters are naturally hormonal and may need more time to mature.
Gradual reintroduction works best.

Start by letting one interact with the hens under supervision for short periods.
If he behaves well, extend the time gradually.
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Re: Can Roosters Learn Good Manners After Being Separated from Hens?

Post by ScratchAndCluck »

HenThusiast wrote: Sun Jan 19, 2025 3:37 pm I have two 7-month-old roosters who were separated from our hens during molting season.
Now that I’m trying to reintroduce one back to the flock, things are chaotic both roosters are aggressive and rough with the hens. Did I make a mistake by separating them too long? Is it too late for a rooster to learn how to behave around hens? I’d love advice on how to handle this situation so both boys can have happy, healthy lives. Thank you!
Separating roosters during molting was smart to protect your hens.
Now, it’s about training and patience.
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Re: Can Roosters Learn Good Manners After Being Separated from Hens?

Post by CluckinAround »

Separating them during molting wasn’t a mistake.
It’s common to protect hens during that vulnerable time.
Reintroductions can be tricky, but start slow.
Allow supervised time with hens and separate any aggressive rooster if needed.
They can still learn manners, but it’ll take patience.
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Re: Can Roosters Learn Good Manners After Being Separated from Hens?

Post by HenVentor »

Young roosters are hormonal and need time to mature. Keep them separated during reintroduction. I think the will reduce the competition. Over time, he’ll learn how to behave if you’re consistent.
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Re: Can Roosters Learn Good Manners After Being Separated from Hens?

Post by BackyardBanter »

Ive found that adding more hens to the flock can help diffuse the roosters attention and reduce aggression.
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EggstraSpecial
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Re: Can Roosters Learn Good Manners After Being Separated from Hens?

Post by EggstraSpecial »

Consider trimming their spurs temporarily to minimize harm to the hens while they work out their dominance issues.
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GardenGuru42
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Re: Can Roosters Learn Good Manners After Being Separated from Hens?

Post by GardenGuru42 »

It's not a mistake-roosters just need time to reestablish the pecking order. Supervise closely and separate them if things get too intense.
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Re: Can Roosters Learn Good Manners After Being Separated from Hens?

Post by RoosterRambler »

Try introducing one rooster at a time to the flock. Adding both at once might create too much competition and stress for the hens.
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