If you’re considering adding a rooster to your flock, you may be wondering which breed is the best to have. As someone who has owned several breeds of roosters, including Rhode Island Reds (RIR), I can tell you that each breed has its own unique personality and characteristics. In this article, I will share my personal experiences with various rooster breeds and give you some insight into which breed may be the best fit for your flock.
Cochins: Sweet and Protective
One breed of rooster that I have always loved is the Cochin. These birds are known for their sweet personalities and protective nature. Cochins are a large breed with fluffy feathers, and they are often very calm and gentle with their flock. In my experience, they are also great with children and make good family pets.
Faverolles: Sweethearts of the Flock
Another breed of rooster that I have found to be very sweet and gentle is the Faverolle. These birds have a very distinct look, with their fluffy beards and muffs, and they are known for their docile and friendly nature. Faverolles are also great with children and make good pets.
Brahmas: Gentle Giants
If you’re looking for a rooster that is both gentle and impressive, a Brahma may be the right choice for you. These birds are one of the largest breeds of chicken, and they have a very calm and easy-going temperament. Brahmas are often good with children and make good family pets.
Rhode Island Reds: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Rhode Island Reds are a popular breed of rooster, and they are known for their hardiness and egg-laying abilities. However, they can also be very aggressive, especially during breeding season. In fact, as the original poster noted, RIR roosters can be downright dangerous at times. While there are some RIR roosters that are sweet and gentle, it’s important to keep in mind that this breed can be hit or miss when it comes to temperament.
Other Breeds to Consider
While the breeds mentioned above are some of the most popular when it comes to roosters, there are plenty of other breeds to consider as well. Some other breeds that I have found to be gentle and good with their flock include Ameraucanas and Freedom Rangers.
Tips for Dealing with an Aggressive Rooster
If you already have a rooster and are experiencing aggression, there are some things you can do to try to remedy the situation. One tip that was shared by a fellow chicken owner is to grab the rooster and carry him around with you for a half-hour. Doing this every day for a week can help the rooster understand that while he is in control of his hens, you are in control of him.
Another option is to try to have a heart-to-heart with your rooster. While this may sound silly, some chicken owners have found that talking to their birds in a soothing voice can help to calm them down and reduce aggression.
If all else fails, it may be necessary to cull the rooster. While this can be a difficult decision to make, it’s important to remember that a dangerous rooster can pose a serious threat to both humans and other birds.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a rooster for your flock is a personal decision, and there are many factors to consider. While some breeds are known for their gentle nature, others can be more aggressive and difficult to handle. By doing your research and getting to know the personality of each breed, you can make an informed decision about which rooster is right for you and your flock.
