Just got my first flock

sen2two

In the Brooder
Apr 19, 2019
20
28
34
Just picked up my first flock of Rhode island red's. 6 to be exact.

I requested all hens, and I was told they are 2 months old. I do not know how to tell a male from a female chicken. Especially at this age. At least one of them seems a little more aggressive (even bit me! lol) and worries me that it may be a rooster. How can i tell?

Also, they seem to engage in a fight, or almost fight somewhat often. Is this common?
 
At 2 months old, you should be able to tell the difference between females and males. So, if they look the same, they are likely the same gender. Can you post pics? If so, then post of them standing up, from the side. Also, make sure the comb and wattles are clearly shown.

Aggressive ones - might still be play or pecking order.
 
All young chickens spar and play, pullets too.
Some hens like to be alfa, and i find RIR's to be more aggresive than other breeds.
If you want to post a few pictures if all the birds some folks here will by happy to guess.
Take a close look at your chickens feet and thickness if legs. A males will be bigger and thicker.
You will know for sure when he gets those slim shiny saddle and hackle feathers and starts to crow.
i hope your chicks are all girls!
 
If all the chicks look similar you probably did get all pullets. I have heard/read that RIRs can be a somewhat aggressive breed, males and females.
 
At 2 months old, you should be able to tell the difference between females and males. So, if they look the same, they are likely the same gender. Can you post pics? If so, then post of them standing up, from the side. Also, make sure the comb and wattles are clearly shown.

Aggressive ones - might still be play or pecking order.

Whats a comb and wattle? I think you are referring to what I call the Mohawk and beard. lol...
 
Whats a comb and wattle? I think you are referring to what I call the Mohawk and beard. lol...

Ye, most likely what you are calling the mohawk and beard. Males and females have both, but usually when they are growing up the males develop them earlier and they color red earlier, which is why you would likely be able to tell a difference if one or two looked different from each other as they are the same breed and same age at 8 weeks old. However, you could have all males or all females if they look the same. If your source for the chicks was reputable than you likely have all females if they look the same. If your source was not reputable, post pics and we will help you out!
 

New posts New threads Active threads

Back
Top Bottom