When a Surprise Rooster Reveal Requires Rehoming

October 16, 2024
By: SPCA Educational Farm Manager Heather Silverthorn

Our friends at Lollypop Farm in Rochester shared the following post on their social media platforms not long ago:

“Over the past couple of months, Lollypop Farm has seen a large increase in roosters needing to be rehomed due to the fact that people have found themselves with a ‘surprise rooster’ in their flock. In fact, from July 1st through [August 29] we had 28 rooster surrender inquiries. Wondering how this might happen?

When someone purchases chicks, they may be told that they are getting all females, but sexing chicks is difficult, so it’s common to end up with at least one rooster in the mix. This can lead to issues like flock imbalance. Ten hens (female) to one rooster (male) is the most common ratio for a flock, and if there is more than one rooster, it may lead to unwanted behaviors like fighting. That being said, if roosters were raised together and get along well, you may be able to adjust the ratio. The most important part is making sure the flock is happy and has enough space to thrive.

Another common reason “surprise roosters” may become a problem is when people are unknowingly violating zoning laws. These laws include a part about noise levels. Have you ever heard a rooster crow?! The sound can be very loud.” See the full post here >>

We at the SPCA Serving Erie County are in a similar predicament. We, too, have been getting an influx of phone calls and drop-ins by people with questions about surrendering their surprise roosters! While we love our feathered friends, we absolutely want them to be in a home where they are best suited.

We always encourage our community to get animals they will love and that will make their homes a happier place. However, where these animals are obtained, along with what is allowed in your town/village/city, can play a big part in choosing our feathered/furred friends. We highly recommend skipping local stores in search of chicks; these are not always the best choice because employees often are not able to properly identify the sex of chicks. This can ultimately lead to a rooster as a part of your flock.

While roosters can be very beneficial for a flock, in many towns they aren’t allowed because of their need to crow. When making the choice to bring feathered friends into your life, first check with your local office to find out what their rules are. Once established, using places like the SPCA Serving Erie County to adopt your friend is a great choice. We can also give you ideas on the best places to obtain a flock when faced with restrictions.

If you find yourself with an unexpected rooster, calling your local shelter is a wonderful start. However, many, like the SPCA Serving Erie County, do not always have room available to accept your surrender.

If you’re in a position of needing to rehome a rooster without luck at a shelter, the following social media resources are a great place to start. For WNY locals, there are excellent online sources to research, including:

Livestock in NY
Livestock in WNY
WNY Chicken Peeps
WNY Ducks and Chickens
WNY Crazy Hobby Farmers

Lollypop Farm also recommended an article regarding raising baby chickens. It’s an informative article worth reading before making any chicken purchase! Find that article here >>

The SPCA’s Educational Farm is open to the public Monday, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., and Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.  More information is available at YourSPCA.org/Educational-Farm .