Noisier and more dynamic than its counterpart the hen, a
rooster
can quickly be a source of problem if it is aggressive. If you have children or other pets around your yard, here are some solutions.
To discover
What to plant, sow or harvest in March?
Why is my rooster aggressive?
Naturally territorial, the role of the rooster is to protect the hens in the presence of other roosters, intruders or predators. Therefore, it is normal for him to sometimes display threatening behavior.
Additionally, as puberty approaches, a young rooster's hormones make him combative. In the spring, during the breeding season, it is common for a rooster to adopt aggressive behavior to assert its dominance.
Lack of socialization can also contribute to aggression. Those who have not been adequately exposed to interactions with humans or other animals may be more prone to developing hostile behaviors.
Finally, a noisy, dirty or cramped environment can also contribute to increasing the rooster's aggression, due to stress.
Good to know
Health problems or physical pain can also be contributing factors to a rooster's aggression. This is because animals can overreact when experiencing pain or physical discomfort because they instinctively seek to protect themselves.
Also read: Adopt a chicken: 5 things to know before you start
How to react during a rooster attack?
Roosters don't usually attack for no reason. But what should you do if one of these animals starts charging at you?
First of all, stay calm and don't approach head-on.
Try to maintain a safe distance between you and the rooster by facing him. Avoid turning your back on him, as this may encourage the attack. If possible, back away slowly and calmly while keeping an eye on the rooster. Try to move away from the hen house and avoid sudden gestures or rapid movements that could provoke an aggressive reaction in the rooster.
If you are still attacked, try to run away or protect yourself with an object, such as a stick or a branch to repel the rooster while avoiding causing it injury.
As a last resort, if the rooster continues to attack and you are in danger, try grabbing him around the neck to keep him still. Make sure you don't seriously injure him.
If you're dealing with a rooster with a somewhat fiery but still manageable temperament, it's a good idea to take precautions before heading to the coop. It is recommended to wear gloves, thick clothing and boots to avoid being injured by beaks, claws and spurs.
How to calm an aggressive rooster?
Always approach him calmly and carefully. You can try distracting him with food or treats to divert his attention.
Use training techniques to teach the rooster to obey simple commands like “back up” or “down.” Reward him with treats when he obeys correctly. Furthermore, regular and gentle handling from a young age can help make him less aggressive.
If aggressive behavior persists despite your efforts, consider consulting a veterinarian or animal behaviorist for additional advice. In some cases, castration may be an option to reduce aggression in roosters.
If the rooster is aggressive toward other pets, consider separating him temporarily to avoid conflict and injury.
Finally, if despite all your attempts at training and socialization, the rooster remains dangerously aggressive, it may be necessary to find him a new, more suitable environment... or simply to put him down.