Gold or silver in silkie hackles...question...

[Three Cedars Silkies]

I have 5 silkie youngsters that are about 3 month old. They are coal black with no gold or silver anywhere.

If the males were to develop silver or gold in their hackle feathers, at what age would this occur?

I'm fairly certain there are at least 2 cockerels in this group.

 

[hinkjc]

I've seen it appear in the 12-16 week time frame.

 

[jimnjay]

Just as the Final feather out comes along ususally around 5 months. It is so disappointing to think you have this awesome bird only to see little red pin feathers popping up. Not to say it is not an awesome bird any longer but it is limited in its breeding potential.

 

[Three Cedars Silkies]

OK, thanks for the info. I'll be on the lookout. I am hoping these will remain the dark, dark black that they are now.