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[sandusky28]

How long does it take after they have just hatched to get the chickens gender.?

 

[Megs72]

Till they crow?

I have 6 - and hoped for the best. Four are 6 weeks and still have small combs, very yellow in color.

I have one 3 week old barred rock I *think* is a roo - but nothing is an exact science from what I read on the threads. If you post picts some of the experts here might be able to tell you based on the breed. But thats best guess until they are older.

Good luck!

 

[Erica]

Hi sandusky28,

At 3 weeks of age, you can tell with a good degree of certainty by looking at the combs and wattles. I find this method about 99% accurate with a little practice.
From above, the comb of a rooster is pinker and thicker.
The comb of a pullet is narrow and should have no pink in it yet (or almost none).

However comb sexing can be harder on breeds that are prone to early heavy development, or chicks on higher protein feed, and of course on araucanas and similar birds (though I usually see differences at exactly 3 weeks no matter what the breed).

Before this, some indications can include longer fuller tails and better feather coverage in the girls, while boys sometimes have really short tufty tails and fewer feathers. But some birds are naturally slower feathering regardless of sex, so sexing by feather growth isn't as accurate as by comb.

cheers
Erica

 

[ChickiesInUtah]

I have absolutely no idea, but I posted a pic of my four week old chicks in the "what breed or gender is this?" room and the experienced folks could tell right away I had at least one roo. I was astonished. To me they all look very much alike. I watched them closely for a long time on Sunday and was able to pick out one with a taller comb but that's it.

Good luck!