Black australorp? Do they grow at different rates?

[Prettychick44]

Im a first timer with chicks here and i recently got 3 mixed br's (i think) but went back and purchased 3 black australorps in case my mixes turned out to be roos... They all have a little light coloring on the chest but one has a larger amount of light coloring on the face as well and she does not have tail feathers like her sisters yet her body is the same size. Could this be a breed mix again or should I be worrier about her development? She is the chick standing in the middle.

 

[Welshies]

She is younger or growing slower.
I have one 8 week old chick half the size of the other right now... she'll live but be petite. I give her extra grower and food.

 

[BlueBaby]

Yes, Black Australorp's can grow at different rates, and so do the Blue and Splash Australorp's. I think part of the reason may be that the bigger ones try to hog more of the food, maybe?

 

[Prettychick44]

Well she's the pushy one when it comes to the food dish thats why I was concerned about her growth falling behind for a more serious reason. But they are all active and loud! I do mix their regular water with some vitamin treated water from the feed store for a little boost...

 

[BlueBaby]

Well she's the pushy one when it comes to the food dish thats why I was concerned about her growth falling behind for a more serious reason. But they are all active and loud! I do mix their regular water with some vitamin treated water from the feed store for a little boost...

Well you are doing good then, because that's what I give to mine.

 

[drumstick diva]

Also she / he may be from a later hatch date. Male chicks are generally slower to feather in especially in regard to tails.

 

[ChickNanny13]

I maybe wrong but it will be interesting to see, have heard/read that cockerels develop feathering slower that pullets Keep us posted

Ooops drumstick diva post came up after I finished my post & she's experienced so now I know I read/recalled correctly.

 

[Prettychick44]

Well I am convinced cookie (chick with the mostly yellow face) is a roo. The comb is very pink and bigger then both the others. Tail feathers are barely growing in now and they already seem different then the other two girls as well. If he is a roo, I will still keep him. As long as his temperament is okay... He is very assertive

 

[Welshies]

You'll need to wait until he is 8 weeks to be sure.

 

[Prettychick44]

What signs should I be looking for around that time? Would he be trying to crow by that time?