Is it time to say goodbye?

[Ketta_czarina]

Hello, I just posted an introduction, and mentioned having a question I haven’t found an answer to yet. Here it goes:

I’ve had my chicks since late March, I think they are about 16 weeks. I love them all so much, and Charlie and Kevin are so handsome, but I’m pretty sure they are roosters. They have sickle-shaped tail feathers now, and pointy neck feathers, and bright red combs and wattles.

My question is, when do I need to take them back to the Ranch? I can’t keep roosters here, and I afraid they will start trying mate with their mom or sisters. The sisters haven’t started laying eggs, but the mom is. Neither of them have started crowing, but they are starting to show off and fight. Is it time to say goodbye?

 

[sylviethecochin]

Is it time to say goodbye?

Probably so. Sorry.

 

[Ketta_czarina]

It’s ok, I knew this day would come. They will have a nice life at the ranch.

 

[DobieLover]

Yes, I'm afraid so. If you are not allowed roosters then these young cockerels are going to have to go. I'm surprised they haven't already started crowing at 16 weeks, at least the dominant one.

 

[Frazzemrat1]

if your not certain that they're male, you can always post pics to be certain. Some pullets, especially during molt, can look like they have those sickle shaped feathers. The best way to tell is that they have huge combs and wattles and they have male specific saddle feathers.

 

[Ketta_czarina]

Yes, I'm afraid so. If you are not allowed roosters then these young cockerels are going to have to go. I'm surprised they haven't already started crowing at 16 weeks, at least the dominant one.

Of course, one of them started this morning! It’s a soft little crow, but it was there. Sad day!

 

[DobieLover]

Of course, one of them started this morning! It’s a soft little crow, but it was there. Sad day!

I had to give up one of my cockerels. He is now living with 4 of his own hens and is a happy boy. If you have someone who will take them, that is good.

 

[sourland]

Better now before problems arise.

 

[cstephens1987]

The longer you wait, the harder it gets