The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Poultry & Waterfowl => Topic started by: RonMinch on June 21, 2016, 12:43:27 pm

Title: Sexing 9 week old chicks
Post by: RonMinch on June 21, 2016, 12:43:27 pm

Hi All not sure if anyone can help, in the past I have hatched chicks and very soon been able to spot the cockreles. Recently hatched some Blue Laced Wyandottes and at 9 weeks I am still struggling to identify the hens. One has just started to crow but goes quite when I approach, it is a bit of a poor effort I think he is embarrassed. Anyone have any ideas or do I just wait? I did want to sell some on. Ron.

Title: Re: Sexing 9 week old chicks
Post by: Marches Farmer on June 21, 2016, 01:35:10 pm

Wyandotte hens will have tufty tails from a few weeks old - cockerels generally fairly bare back ends until the sickle feathers start to emerge.  They also have thicker legs, redder and more prominent combs and, indeed, will start to crow at a fairly young age.

Title: Re: Sexing 9 week old chicks
Post by: Dave C on June 21, 2016, 10:33:02 pm

Come on Ron, let's see some pics  :excited:

Title: Re: Sexing 9 week old chicks
Post by: RonMinch on July 04, 2016, 04:15:56 pm

Hi Thanks for the replys been on holiday for a week, I think I can now spot the cockerels, 3 are much bolder than the others and there wattles have increased in size in comparison to the others, although they are pure bred there are 3 distinct colour variations. Will try and get some photos to night.


Ron.