Is it normal to see their pink skin as they begin to feather?

[Nadkison]

First time chicken mama over here and we’re loving it! However, our babies are almost 3 weeks old and they’re beginning to feather, but we’re not sure if it’s normal to see so much pink from their skin when they do. They seem happy and never seem to be itching or pecking at their skin. Also, could someone confirm their breed for us? We were thinking buff orpingtons but wanted a confirmation.

 

[StephanieRose44]

Yes that’s normal they’re going through there first moly, it’s usually stressful and or uncomfortable for them during these times. But definitely I noticed with CXs (I’m assuming they are lol) they start do look like a rubber chicken lol

 

[StephanieRose44]

 

[Pretty Birds]

Those are Cornish crosses.

 

[Nadkison]

Oh phew! Okay that’s what my gut was saying too but then I see all these other babies who are about the same age and their feathers don’t seem as sparse so then I started doubting myself. thanks!

 

[BellaBlueBell]

I saw that, too, with the babies. The skin looked quite uncomfortable until feathers came in. Can't see the skin now - they 6-7 weeks old.

 

[sourland]

What you are seeing is normal for the breed. They are Cornish X meat birds. The sad part is that they will have a limited lifespan. Even with limited feeding and exercise most die within their first year.

 

[The Moonshiner]

What you are seeing is normal for the breed. They are Cornish X meat birds. The sad part is that they will have a limited lifespan. Even with limited feeding and exercise most die within their first year.

Agree.
That is normal for meat birds that grow so fast that their feather growth can't keep up.
It is not normal for non meat birds.

 

[Mamatomany123]

As others have said, these are cornish x (meat birds) they're going to be ready for processing in a few weeks.