I’m worried I may have a male?!

[Melissacoop]

My babies seem to be big for their age. I’ve had them for exactly 9 weeks and I got them as tiny 5 day old chicks. They are already starting to get their combs and the biggest one comb is red. This all started because I asked in another thread how to tell if they are ready to start laying and someone commented that he may be a male. I will be heartbroken if I have to find him a new home.

 

[pallas]

He does look like a male. But could still be a hen, you'll just have to wait and see. Good luck!

 

[Melissacoop]

Wait until when??!!!

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

No maybe about it, you have a cockerel there

 

[coltgrizzz]

The middle one in the first picture looks like it could be a cockerel but don’t give up hope! They’re only 9 weeks which is still too early for a definite yes or no!

 

[Melissacoop]

So when do I have to separate him from the girls??

 

[Melissacoop]

The middle one in the first picture looks like it could be a cockerel but don’t give up hope! They’re only 9 weeks which is still too early for a definite yes or no!

Yes. That’s the one in question.. When will I know for sure?

 

[pallas]

Wait until when??!!!

Until he crows, but Ol Grey Mare is right he's definitely a rooster. You could check the laws in your area on keeping roosters if you want to try and keep him.

 

[coltgrizzz]

So when do I have to separate him from the girls??

If you plan on keeping him, wait until he shows signs of aggression or dominance. This typically comes in the form of mounting or biting at the back of the neck and comb

 

[coltgrizzz]

Yes. That’s the one in question.. When will I know for sure?

Personally i’ve always found that you can clearly tell at 4-5 months but some chicks mature quicker then others. Hell i had a chick that started crowing at 3 months old. Just hold off and catch your breath till then