Black Australorp - sex?

[aosborn]

I got a straight run australorp baby from TSC.... I thought I was sure it was a hen but now I'm not so sure. I believe it's roughly 18 weeks old (4.5 months). Any ideas? This is absolutely the friendliest bird I've ever had.

 

[sylviethecochin]

Shiny back feathers mean that he's a lad. Sorry(?)

In future, Australorps are a slow-feathering breed. Since it's a sexlinked gene, males get a "double dose" and the chicks with the longest feathers are likely to be female.

 

[SurferchickinSB]

I got a straight run australorp baby from TSC.... I thought I was sure it was a hen but now I'm not so sure. I believe it's roughly 18 weeks old (4.5 months). Any ideas? This is absolutely the friendliest bird I've ever had.View attachment 1969512 View attachment 1969514 View attachment 1969515

Cockerel, Australorps are usually really friendly, easy to handle and easy going

 

[PioneerChicks]

Cockerel, sorry.

Edit: oh, and welcome to BYC!

 

[AstraChick]

im no expert, but looks like a cockerel, pointy neck feathers and looks like his saddle feathers are there aswell.

 

[TheChiggens]

A roo
That a good thing?

 

[aosborn]

Thanks all for the replies!

That's kinda what I figured. From everything I read he doesn't look/act like a hen, but I know each breed is different. Unfortunately where I live (in city limits) I'm not 'supposed' to have a rooster, so I may have to rehome him at some point. But until then, I will love and adore him just the same!

 

[chrissynemetz]

I'm sorry but I agree, I believe you have a cockerel