Australorp chicks- sam age, very different size/feathering

[Kenberg]

I got these 2 black australorp chicks a couple weeks ago. They were the same size with similar feathering when I broight them home. Now 2 weeks later, one is MUCH larger than the other with significantly more feathering.

Chick labeled #1 in the photo: could she be a he? Or should I be worried about stunted growth?

Chick labeled #2: based on size and feathering how old would you guess this chick is?

I know australorp pullets develop feathers faster than cockerels but this seems extreme. Thoughts?

(I know the photo isn't the best but DAMN do my 2 bantams fly right out if I remove the fly topper I built to keep them in )

 

[Rhodebar Lover]

They're too young to sex. Honestly the size and color variation doesn't look too extreme to me

 

[Kenberg]

They're too young to sex. Honestly the size and color variation doesn't look too extreme to me

Not trying to sex them necessarily. #2 has back, chest and tail feathers with long wing feathers. Chick #1 has no chest or tail feathers, short wing feathers and all down on the back. Mostly trying to rule out any stunted growth issues and to see if #2 looks older than #1...

 

[Rhodebar Lover]

It truly just looks like normal variation. All chicks feather at different speeds. The slower to feather one may be a cockerel because they're typically a bit slower but it's not a rule

 

[Kenberg]

It truly just looks like normal variation. All chicks feather at different speeds. The slower to feather one may be a cockerel because they're typically a bit slower but it's not a rule

Thanks! I'm actually hoping it's a cockerel since I don't have one currently lol

 

[NatJ]

Not trying to sex them necessarily. #2 has back, chest and tail feathers with long wing feathers. Chick #1 has no chest or tail feathers, short wing feathers and all down on the back.

I think you probably have one with the fast feathering gene, and one with the slow feathering gene. Each can be normal.

Since those genes are on the Z chromosome, they can be used to produce feather-sexable chicks. But in your case, it is more likely that the speed of feathering has nothing to do with the gender of the chicks.

 

[3KillerBs]

Welcome to BYC.

My male Australorps usually show their combs by 4 weeks.

Thanks! I'm actually hoping it's a cockerel since I don't have one currently lol

If you put your general location into your profile people can give better-targeted advice when you ask questions. Climate matters.

If you happen to be in central NC, I have Black and Blue Australorp males who hatched on Easter for sale.

 

[Ambersquared]

Hi! I have a similar situation and was wondering if yours ended up being a cockerel? Thank you!