What should I look for in choosing a barred rock rooster? I didn't get five star chicks. Now that they are grown I need to choose whick rooster I want to keep. What are some good and bad qualities I need to look for?
PS I wrote a long letter to my representatives!

Kate-

I guess it depends what you are useing the rooster for. If you are going to breed your rooster for meat birds look for one with a full breast and is largest. If it is just a barnyard flock pick the nicest rooster, in a few cases roosters can get nasty so find the friendlest one. If your are intersted in flytying feathers pick a rooster whose saddle feathers are long with hardly any taper. Also pick a rooster with a bright comb and one who is healthy. Hope this helps and isn't too confusing.

Thanks Joanie! I heard that you have to look at the back for something. Something like a hump or something... I know you don't want it. Do you know what I'm talking about?

Kate-

I haven't heard about it and never experienced it with any of my chickens. It sounds like you should steer clear of it though Good Luck

What you are talking about is a "roach back or hump back". It is easy to detect, as it affects the appearance and stance of the bird. You also want to cull any roosters with crooked breast bones, split wings, crooked toes, etc. Good luck with your birds!