13 rock chicks don't know the sex 5 light 8 dark??

[Allan Robichaud]

I am a bit confused. I have read forums saying lighter Plymouth chicks are males then another post it is the opposite . heres a pic of mine any help would be great. 8 weeks old now.

 

[Pyxis]

With barred rocks, the lighter ones are males. Females are only single barred, whereas males are double barred, making them lighter in appearance.

 

[Allan Robichaud]

great. also is it good to let them free roam? they are eating a lot of grass and worms!

 

[Pyxis]

I let mine out to range and they love it! You just must always be aware that by letting them free range you are exposing them to predators, and be prepared for losses to happen. My birds love free ranging and I have a large dog who discourages predators, so my risk is a little lower than those who live in very predator heavy areas. The birds get to get out and be chickens and find and eat bugs, so personally I'm in favor of it.

 

[Allan Robichaud]

I always leave the door of the coop propped open as their food is in there and they can hide in the coop. also there is a barn in the picture that they can go under. just hope it's safe enough. there is a fox around but I don't know if he could get in the coop or not. I also have ducks laying on the side of the house. figure they would get hit first if it was going to happen.

 

[Wyandottes7]

With barred rocks, the lighter ones are males. Females are only single barred, whereas males are double barred, making them lighter in appearance.

x2

 

[BantamLover21]

The light ones are cockerels.

 

[Allan Robichaud]

5 roos and 8 hens i'll take it!! thought I only had 5 hens lol