So, you're dreaming of farm-fresh eggs, but the question lingers: do you need a rooster strutting around? The short answer: NO! Hens will lay eggs perfectly fine without a rooster's presence. Egg production is a natural process for mature hens, independent of fertilization.
Think of it this way: hens lay eggs as part of their reproductive cycle, much like humans have periods. A rooster's role is solely for fertilization – that is, creating chicks.
However, if you *want* chicks, a rooster is absolutely essential. He'll fertilize the eggs, and with proper incubation (either naturally by a broody hen or in an incubator), you'll have fluffy baby chicks.
So, to recap: eggs? No rooster needed. Chicks? Rooster required! Happy egg farming!
