[Carshay]

My cousin has a stray cockerel in her garden which has been there for about 2wks. She can't find a home for him and I am quite tempted to put him in with my 12 girls. But I would like to know the pros & cons. Can anyone help? The crowing would not be a problem but I don't want to have stressed girls or an aggressive cockerel - what's the likelihood? All advice very welcome!

[joyfull]

how is he with your neighbour? you should be able to tell if he is aggressive or not by seeing if you can hold him.
If you put him in with your hens he may get a little protective over them but when you go out with any treats make sure you give them to him so he can call his ladies over for them - this helps with any aggression.

[Carshay]

I've not seen him yet but think he's fairly friendly - my cousin thinks he's quite young.

[joyfull]

If he is young the adult hens will bully him for a while but after a few months he will take control.
In his first year or so of his mating he may be a little aggressive towards them but he will calm down in his second or third season  .
I miss having cockerels around so may get another one now that my chickens are all in an enclosed run 

[Carshay]

Thanks Joy - I'm getting persuaded by you to have him! Do you think that as I've 12 girls they won't be damaged by him as he'll have plenty to get round?

[joyfull]

sometimes they can have a favourite hen (usually one that is very submissive) and they can concentrate most of their amorous attention on just that one. If this happens they can become quite bald on the backs of their necks, the tops of their wings and of course their backs. If this happens you can buy or make a poultry saddle which helps to protect their skin and allows new feathers to grow back 

[Carshay]

I think I'll have him - your fault if he's trouble!! Sorry Joy! Only joking!

[joyfull]