Less feathers at 4 weeks

[Rick&Chris]

Hi all -
I have 10 chicks, all the same age (4 weeks) - 5 different breeds. Any idea why one (A black star) hardly has any feathers? Still peach fuzzy fluff, whereas the others have way more feathers.

 

[EggSighted4Life]

Simply stated... since nothing appears wrong, it's genetics. I see it on occasion. They usually catch up and seem normal after all is said and done.

Purdy babies you got there.

 

[Robert G]

In my experience, the ones with less feathers tend to be roos. At least with cochins. This year alone I've had 3 and all 3 came out to be roos.

 

[Missythechickenlady]

Males take longer to feather. I have a oegb mixed with austrolorp and 2 out of 3 are full feathered at 6 weeks and one is not. That one already had a comb and waddles very red. If you look it up males may take longer to develop. Also yours had some thicker legs. Hope this helps.

Missy

 

[Rick&Chris]

Oh no! They’re supposed to be all girls!

 

[Missythechickenlady]

Oh no! They’re supposed to be all girls!

I wish I would get all girls to.

 

[Rick&Chris]

Comb is yellow, no signs of a waddle. Maybe she’s a late bloomer!

 

[Folly's place]

It could be a pullet, just slower feathering. Fast feathering is supposed to be a positive trait for egg production, so if you are planning on a breeding group, have her out of it.
Otherwise, it shouldn't matter.
Mary

 

[aart]

Oh no! They’re supposed to be all girls!

Vent sexing is only 90% accurate, so says the hatcheries CYA.
BUT if she's a sexlink she could just be feathering slower.
All birds are individuals, even when same age and/or same breed, you'll see other differences as things go along.

 

[Rick&Chris]

Thanks for all the info!!