[Laidback]

We are due to take delivery of a cockerel shortly from a friend whose husbandry we  trust. As the bird is not mature, is there anything we should be aware of or look out for if we introduce him, after quarantine, to a free range area with about a dozen large hens?

Sorry to sound a bit dense, but I worry about overlooking something obvious!

[Casey76]

Well first of all, your hens are going to "hen peck" him, literally.

Introducing a single bird to an established group is never easy, whether it is a cockerel or pullet.  So in the main pen, make sure there are plenty of feeding and watering stations, and some places to hide, so he can take refuge.

Second of all, once he starts feeling his hormones your hens will now about it.  Young cockerels can be vicious and persistent.  Be watchful for torn combs and torn skin on the top of the head.