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[lougarbard]

When we got our Welsummer trio in 2008, we were really only sure of one of the hens ages, the other hen was older, and has sinced passed away.

But this summer the cockerel seems to have really aged and I would say he had arthritis! (if chickens get that or whatever is similar!)

He can still walk about, but just doesnt very much, but when he stands his legs seem quite wide apart, this seems easier for him to reach the ground comfortably, and he spends a lot of his time just sitting down outside or in the doorway of the house, also he hasnt seemed as alert to predators lately.

What age would a cock normally live til? Apart from the legs, he looks in superb condition. (apart from just starting to moult!)

Oh, and also, he doesnt appar to be fertile anymore (even if he once was) None of his 4 eggs hatched out the other week. Would that determine his age?

 

I am wondering if we get a cockerel (or two) in our batch of chicks, whether we should keep one, to sort of take his place when he goes. But I am worried, as I dont want him bullied by a younger stronger cock.

What do you think???

 

Thanks

[Mollie333]

Don't introduce another cockerel just yet. I'd wait, as the hens would be getting older aswell, its better just just get a younger trio, as getting a new cockerel will cause fighting between the old one and the new one, and if its too young the hens wont take it seriously.. it happens. And as long as hes happy and healthy and not showing any other signs of illness then i'd take it as old age. Yes cockerels of old age don't stay fertile, but will still defend his hens if another cock comes into the pen, often leading into injuries. I'd just get a new trio. Cockerels live as long as a hen. What breed is he? as some breeds have longer life expectancy than others, chickens can actually live to a very long age of eight to ten years if kept in good condition and is healthy, but again thats depending on breed.

 

Hope i helped, and welcome to the forum!

[jennydavies]

I think chickens do get arthritic, our neighbour has two arthritic ones and he gives them Cod Liver Oil (only a tiny amount mixed with a bit of corn)

[Tiggy]

my friends cockeral died a few weeks ago he was 8, she adopted him from a neighbour who has a small holding, the younger cockerals were bullying him so when he ended up with my friend and her 5 girls you should have seen him parading around He was with them for 12 months & no babies hatched, he too was a bit arthritic & just couldnt catch the girls mind you he was shut in with them every night so who knows

[Guest]

Molly he is a welsummer says in the thingy first line

[Mollie333]

LOL I have to stop skim reading.

 

Generally a hardy breed those Welsummers, and pretty gorgeous aswell.