What is a Cockerel Chicken? A Complete Guide

A cockerel is a fascinating type of chicken that plays a vital role on farms and homesteads But what exactly is a cockerel, and how does it differ from a regular chicken? In this complete guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about cockerels, from their unique characteristics and behaviors to their significance in agriculture and cultural symbolism

Definition and Key Traits of a Cockerel

A cockerel is defined as a young male chicken under one year old It belongs to the species Gallus gallus domesticus, the scientific name encompassing all domesticated chickens.

Cockerels can be distinguished from female chickens (hens) and adult male chickens (roosters) by several distinctive traits:

• Bright, colorful plumage with long neck and saddle feathers
• Larger combs and wattles on their heads
• Muscular builds and prominent spurs on their legs
• Distinctive loud, frequent crowing

The term “cockerel” specifically applies to males less than one year old. Once they reach maturity after 12 months, cockerels graduate to “rooster” status. However, they retain the same biological identity as the same species.

Physical Characteristics

Cockerels possess unique physical features setting them apart from hens of the same age.

Plumage

The plumage of cockerels is much more vibrant and iridescent than female chickens. They sport long, pointed neck and saddle feathers used for displays. Their plumage color can vary dramatically between breeds.

Combs and Wattles

Cockerels develop larger, more prominent combs and wattles on top of their heads at a younger age than hens. These fleshy growths play a role in heat regulation.

Spurs

Around 16-20 weeks, cockerels grow pointed spurs on their legs used for territorial fights. Hens lack this feature entirely.

Size

Due to accelerated development and male sex hormones, cockerels outgrow hens rapidly. They will be noticeably larger with more muscle mass by maturity.

Vocalizations

The loud, repetitive crowing of cockerels is instantly recognizable. They vocalize to attract mates, mark territory, and signal alarms.

Behavior and Temperament

Cockerels are known for their bold, energetic personalities. They are naturally more aggressive than hens, equipped with behaviors suited for their roles in chicken hierarchy dynamics.

Aggression and Dominance

Cockerels are intensely protective of their flock and breeding rights. They establish social pecking orders and confront threats fearlessly. However, this can translate to aggression towards humans if not properly socialized.

Courtship Displays

During mating season, cockerels become intent on attracting mates. They engage in elaborate shows of plumage and vocalizations to demonstrate their suitability to hens.

Sentinel Behavior

Cockerels adopt the role of alarm clock and security guard for the flock. Their crowing signals the break of dawn and alerts chickens to potential dangers nearby.

Leadership

As the alpha male, cockerels guide flock activities and claiming priority access to resources. Hens defer to the cockerel’s authority, trusting in his decisions for the group’s wellbeing.

Stages of Maturation

Cockerels undergo developmental changes as they mature from chicks into adult roosters.

0-6 weeks: Chick

Too young for sexing. Chicks lack prominent gender differences. Vent sexing by a professional can reveal gender at hatching.

6-14 weeks: Developing Cockerel

Gender differences emerge. Males grow faster and develop combs/wattles. Begin crowing and mounting hens.

14-24 weeks: Immature Cockerel

Nearly full size reached. Dominant behaviors intensify. Plumage matures and spurs grow in. Establish pecking order.

6-12 months: Mature Cockerel

Full adult plumage and spur length. Increased sperm production and fertility. Graduates to rooster status after 12 months.

Origins and Historical Significance

Cockerels have a long, rich history intertwined with human civilization.

Ancient Agriculture

Ancient Egyptians and Romans kept cockerels for meat, eggs, and as watchdogs. Their crowing served as clock alarms before modern timepieces.

Cockfighting

Sadly, cockerels became exploited for violent blood sports like cockfighting. Their aggression was selectively bred to enhance fighting prowess over centuries.

Sacrificial Offerings

In some cultures, cockerels were sacrificed in religious rituals. In ancient Greece, cockerels were offered to Asklepios, the god of medicine and healing.

Folklore and Mythology

Cockerels feature symbolically in folk tales worldwide. Their crowing heralds the dawn, a metaphor for vanquishing darkness with light.

The Role of Cockerels in Agriculture

On small farms and homesteads today, cockerels still play a vital role.

Mating

Obviously, cockerels are essential for breeding new chicks! Their fertility allows hens to produce fertilized eggs.

Flock Protection

The natural guarding instinct of cockerels keeps free-range flocks safe from predators. Their aggression is now put to good use.

Pest Control

Cockerels help control pests like mice, snakes and insects while foraging in fields and barns.

Fertilizer

Their nitrogen-rich droppings contribute to composting and soil fertility when mixed into garden beds.

Breeding Traits

Selectively mating cockerels and hens isolates desirable genetic traits like disease resistance, egg productivity, and adaptability.

Tips for Keeping Cockerels

If you’re considering adding a cockerel to your backyard flock, here are some top care tips:

• Provide at least 2-5 square feet of coop space per bird

• Introduce new cockerels slowly and supervise initial interactions

• Prevent fighting by removing aggressive birds promptly

• Trim spurs blunt if needed to reduce injuries

• Give cockerels extra protein for their rapid growth phase

• Discourage loud crowing with toys and activities to distract them

• Handle frequently from a young age to promote good temperament

Debunking Common Cockerel Myths

There are a few persistent myths about cockerels worth dispelling:

• Myth: Cockerels are a distinct chicken breed. Truth: Cockerel just describes an age/sex of any breed.

• Myth: All male chickens are cockerels. Truth: Only young, adolescent males are cockerels.

• Myth: Cockerels are just mini-roosters. Truth: They are a distinct life stage with different traits than adult males.