What to Do With an Unwanted Rooster in Queensland

Callan Groth

Oct 15

3 min read

Updated: 4 days ago

It happens to the best of us. You bring home a box of pullets, and a few months later one of them starts crowing at 4am. Or the neighbours have had enough. Whatever the reason, you're not alone: roosters are some of the hardest animals to rehome in Queensland.

Please note: Hidden Camp is currently at capacity for roosters, so we can't take any more in at the moment. The options below are still your best bet, and we've left this guide up because we know how hard it is to find a home for a rooster.

Can I keep a rooster where I live?

It depends on your council and the size of your block. In the Gympie region, for example, Gympie Regional Council's poultry local law doesn't allow roosters on urban lots under 4,000 m². Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast and other councils have their own rules, and many restrict roosters in residential areas, so check your council's website before you decide what to do.

Your options for an unwanted rooster

Ask where he came from. Some breeders and sellers will take back a cockerel.
Find someone with a rural block. Be honest about his age, health and temperament, and ask what they plan to do with him. Local poultry clubs and community noticeboards are a good place to start.
Ring around the rescues early. Many farm animal rescues and sanctuaries are full of roosters (we are too, right now), so start asking well before you're stuck.
Please don't let him go in bushland or a park. He's unlikely to survive, and it isn't fair on him or the local wildlife.

Some of the feathered mob at Hidden Camp: three guinea fowl on patrol

Roosters at Hidden Camp

Hidden Camp is a 169-acre family farm in Glenwood, QLD. We've given plenty of roosters a home over the years, and they've filled every perch we have, so we're at capacity for roosters for now. Our feathered mob (including Sir Hiss-a-Lot, our very opinionated Muscovy) is well and truly full.

Where we do still have room is in the paddocks. If you know someone who needs to rehome cattle or a bull, a horse, donkey, alpacas, sheep or a camel, send them our way. Rehoming is free, and they stay for life.

Areas we help

We're in Glenwood, between Gympie and Maryborough, and regularly hear from people in Gympie, Tiaro, Maryborough, Hervey Bay, Tin Can Bay, Rainbow Beach, Noosa and the Sunshine Coast.

Still stuck with a rooster? We can't take him right now, but you're welcome to call or text Callan on 0478 116 143, and we'll let you know if anything changes or point you to someone who might help.

What to include in your rehoming enquiry

Whoever you contact, include the number of birds, their age and breed if known, temperament around people and other birds, and any known health concerns. Send a clear photo and say whether hens or other birds also need a home. These details help any rescue assess whether they have suitable space.

For every enquiry, include your suburb, contact details, when you need help and whether you can provide transport. Please flag an urgent deadline when you first get in touch.

Can I bring an animal straight to Hidden Camp?

Please don't. We need to check capacity, suitable facilities and the animal's needs before accepting anyone, and we're not currently taking roosters. Do not travel to the farm or leave animals at the gate without an arrangement.

Call 0478 116 143, email hiddencamp@outlook.com.au or use our contact page.