Backyard Fowl Keepers

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Ive found that adding more hens to the flock can help diffuse the roosters attention and reduce aggression.

Consider trimming their spurs temporarily to minimize harm to the hens while they work out their dominance issues.

It's not a mistake-roosters just need time to reestablish the pecking order. Supervise closely and separate them if things get too intense.

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