My #1 Delaware Boy (PICS/new pics added in posts #28 & #35)

[speckledhen]

This boy is 12 weeks old. He is my first choice for my flock sire for the Delaware flock at the moment-will have to keep him awhile longer to do a temperament test when he reaches breeding age, but so far, he's the frontrunner. The juvenile "smut" in the markings is beginning to clear out a bit now, but there is a long way to go till we see the final masterpiece. He stood out from early on, so much so that I nicknamed him The Rockstar. #2 boy is even larger than this one, but his comb isn't as nice.

 

[vortec]

Great looking roo! I have a question though. When do roosters hit breeding age? I have some that are 14 weeks, and not much has happened yet.

vortec

 

[speckledhen]

I see them start mating the girls around 16 weeks, or so, then soon after, I start seeing fertile eggs from the girls. The temperament test isn't an actual test, but just interacting with him and observing him when he starts the "raging hormones" stage. From 18-26 weeks is when I'd expect him to turn mean if he was ever going to do so.

 

[vortec]

Okay, that makes sense. I will do the same with mine then. I have a ten week old brahma that I am going to keep and I will make sure that within that time period that he is manageable. Thanks!

vortec

 

[kellykate]

He is a "Rockstar"!! I have loved watching your Dels grow -- thanks for posting pictures on them! I think you have a winner with this guy!! Keep us posted!

 

[ga*chick*]

He is a handsome rooster! I have two delaware pullets...nice to see what they will look like as they get older!! Very pretty birds!

 

[Davaroo]

Man, thems some tasty looking feet he's got there, Cyn.

Great looking boy!

 

[Lanissa86]

Wow Cyn! He is definitely a "Rockstar"!

Love how his color is looking and the 5 points on his comb are APA standard for delawares correct?

He looks great Cyn! Your Dels are BEAUTIFUL

 

[speckledhen]

Thanks, all. I'm very proud of them, but I just hatched them and raised them; someday, maybe I can take partial credit for the quality of my flock. Yes, Lanissa, five distinct points, not counting the rear blade, are the standard. He has the best comb of the entire bunch of boys so it was great that he also has excellent markings, size and leg color. Now, the last unknown is really temperament, and you really won't know that till he is chasing the ladies.

 

[miss_jayne]

oh my he's handsome! can't wait to see how the temperament test goes!