How do you determine sex of new chicks?

[dmsalle]

I'm new here so forgive me if this has been discussed over and over again. My question is ..............is there a way to determine the sex of new born chicks? Do you have to wait for a period of time or can you have a pretty good idea shortly after hatching. I'm all ears. Thanks!

 

[JamesA]

It really depends on the breed of chick.Some can be sexed by color some you have to wait a few weeks to figure out.

 

[redhen]

when they crow you know its a boy...

..

 

[gumpsgirl]

Hello and

!!! So glad that you have joined us!

The only fool proof way of sexing chicks is to wait until they are 4 or 5 wks. old. If, at that point, you see red wattles start growing along with a red comb, then it will be safe to say they are going to be a rooster. The pullets/hens combs and wattles start growing and getting red much later than the roosters do. It is usually around 20 wks. or so.

 

[gritsar]

Most breeds start to develop the secondary sex characteristics around 4 to 6 weeks old. Knowing what to look for then allows you to make an educated guess. Before that, it's hopeless.

 

[mikarod]

I find vent sexing a good way to sex day-old chicks.

 

[gritsar]

Quote:
That's cheating! You're trained in vent sexing!

OT - Mik, have you cleaned out your PM box yet? I've tried three times to offer you some brahma eggs in the spring, but your box is always full.

 

[mikarod]

are you kidding?! OMG! I will be deleting some messages really quick! lol!

Here: email is ALWAYS a good way:
[email protected]

PM box has been cleaned...somewhat...PM away! lol

 

[Smartie_Pants]

What breeds do you have? There are some breeds where the male and female are colored differently from birth to indicate sex. They are called Sex-Links. Other that old methods from wives tales, you'll just have to wait.

And be aware, this forum is VERY addictive. From this point on, most of your free time will probably be spent here. Embrace the lunacy, its easier that way.