6 week Black Copper Marans cockerels-markings-what to look for

[crazy4eggsJulie]

I have several BCM cockerels-about 17 of them. This is our first time dealing with this breed. I have researched the standards online but did not find much information on when they are young.

At 6 weeks, they are all marked very different. Some have copper at the necks while some do not. Some are very black. Some have alot of copper on the back. It appears that they are almost all completely feathered in. Is this a good indication of how they will be marked as an adult or will they change quite a bit more? I have way too many and they are ALL trying to establish dominance. I don't want to let them go too soon, but really need to narrow down my choices. What should I be looking for at this age?

Any help is greatly appreciated!

 

[Illia]

Why didn't you post this in the Marans thread?

Again pictures can help, but you'd better to describe "copper in the neck and back" - Is it actual copper coloring, or is it a slight smudgy red color? Because the thing to look for are birds who aren't "mossy." at this stage, but otherwise they're far too young to decide who to keep and who not to keep.

I'm not culling any of my Marans until they reach at least 6 months, when all of their features come in. . .

 

[kathyinmo]

I have several BCMarans, and they do really change alot over time. Sorry I am not help. My advice would be to not let them go too soon.

 

[crazy4eggsJulie]

I'm moving it to the marans thread and adding pics! Thank you all for your help!