Why Do Roosters Crow? 10 Reasons You Should Know
Ever wondered why roosters crow so loudly in the morning? Roosters are known for their early morning “cock-a-doodle-doo,” but truthfully, it is not just to wake up the neighborhood. Actually, they have quite a good number of reasons for their crowing. Wonder what makes them vocal and what triggers their crowing? We have got you covered! Here are ten of the most important reasons why roosters crow, among other important pieces of information about their habits of crowing.
What Triggers a Rooster to Crow? 10 Main Reasons
Roosters crow for many reasons, with some of those being quite apparent and others being less known. Let me outline the top 10 reasons that will trigger a rooster’s crow:
- To Mark the Start of the Day
From the natural internal clock, also referred to as the circadian rhythm, roosters know full well when the sun is supposed to rise. They are like nature’s alarm clocks, making sure a notice goes to everyone of the break of dawn with their crowing. They often know even when it is dark or overcast outside that it is their time to start the day. They let everyone know.
- Territorial Defense
Roosters are very territorial animals. One of the ways they proclaim their space is by crowing. Crowing warns the other roosters or other animals that this is their territory and to keep off. It is their own style of saying, “This is my patch; stay away!”
- Warning of Danger
Crowing is one of the ways roosters alert their flock to anything that may be wrong. In a case where the rooster notices something unusual, whether it is a predator, a strange noise, or just something that makes him uneasy, he lets out a loud crow to alert other hens and animals in the general vicinity.
- Excitement
Roosters will crow if they get very excited, much as humans would shout or cheer if they are happy. They may crow due to finding food, or they can view another rooster—most of the time, a crow can be their manner of exclaiming happiness or excitement.
- To Communicate with Other Roosters
Roosters communicate with each other; they are not merely crowing. Typically, if one rooster crows, then others nearby will respond. It is sort of like their way of saying, “Hello, how’s it going?”
- Marking the Time
While most of us have been led to believe that roosters crow only in the mornings, the crowing can actually take place throughout the day. Some will crow to mark the time of day—mid-morning, late afternoon, and sunset—and others simply go off on a tangent at odd times throughout the day.
- Attracting Hens
They show off for hens through crowing. With louder and more confident crows, more hens will be attracted, as it is a sign of the strength and health of the rooster. It’s like their thing: “Hey, look how awesome I am!”
- Confidence Boost
If he is feeling particularly brave, after some fight won or after standing his ground against some challenge, he may crow to show off his victory. It is somewhat like puffing his chest out and saying, “I’m the boss!”
- After an Argument
Roosters also crow in post-confrontational situations with another rooster or animal. It’s simply their way of saying, “I won that fight!” That’s how they are reinstated within the pecking order to remind others of where they stand in the hierarchy.
- Boredom or Just Because
Sometimes, roosters crow simply because they can. Similar to some people who enjoy the sound of their own voices, the rooster may also crow due to boredom or simply out of habit. It doesn’t necessarily have to have a motive behind it because they just might feel like it.
At What Age Do Roosters Start Crowing?
Roosters don’t crow immediately; indeed, broody but young roosters—known also as cockerels—will start crowing at around 4 to 5 months of age. When they first start, their crows can sound more like squeaks or awkward honks. But as they get older and practice more, the crows will become fuller and stronger.
It is kind of like when a kid’s voice changes during puberty—they are just learning to use their vocal cords. In a few months, they get it together and crow confidently, especially early in the mornings.
How Many Times a Day Does a Rooster Crow?
You might be wondering how often a rooster crows. Well, that really depends! Some roosters will crow only a few times at dawn, and then others may crow up to 20 times a day or more.
The following are some of the common reasons when a rooster might crow during the course of the day:
- At sunrise: This is by far the most well-known time to crow and marks the beginning of the day.
- During the day: Some roosters crow to remind anyone in their presence of their existence or even to answer any noise.
- When disturbed: If they are startled by something or threatened, crowing will serve as a warning.
- In the evening: Some roosters like to give one last crow before the day ends.
Each rooster has its own personality. And though most aren’t excessively talkative, some will just not let up if they’ve got a lot to say. If you’ve got a chatty rooster, don’t be surprised if you hear the crowing well throughout the day.
How to Stop a Rooster from Crowing?
While it is natural for a rooster to crow, sometimes too much can be, well, too much—especially if you live near other people who don’t necessarily appreciate the noise! Here are a few tips to help reduce crowing:
- Control Light Exposure
Roosters crow when they think the day has started or when they see light. Keeping them in an enclosed dark space—such as covered coops—until later in the morning can help them crow a bit later. The less light they see, the longer they’ll stay silent.
- Provide Distractions
Sometimes, keeping your rooster busy with food, water, or fiddling toys will reduce crowing. A very well-fed and happy rooster might not have the urge to make too much noise. Give them things to peck at or explore to keep them occupied.
- Anti-Crow Collars
Some use anti-crow collars that work by gently limiting the amount of air the rooster can push out when crowing. While this is not a complete stopper of the crowing, it could make it quiet. It is, however, important to ensure the collar is not too tight and the rooster is feeling comfortable.
- Reduce Flock Size
Roosters are much more prone to crow around other roosters. If you have a lot of roosters, this is going to create a competitive environment that is going to escalate crowing. That would reduce the number of roosters and thereby cut down on competition for dominance and, therefore, crowing.
- Move the Coop Away from Noise
They might also crow simply because of outside sounds that they have heard. If their coop is near a highway or other loud area, they may simply be responding to the noise. This noise can be reduced by placing the coop in a much more secluded location.
Conclusion
Reasons a rooster crows range from announcing that the sun gets up to protecting his flock and territorial marking. That is a natural instinct of theirs, though a little noisy at times, but that’s just how they communicate and get on with the world. Whether he is excited, bored, or trying to impress, you could count on one thing: a rooster will always find a reason to crow! If the noise ever gets too much, there are ways to control it, but understanding why they crow can make their calls a bit more bearable.
