My hen is changing color!

[kbird]

These hens are sisters, about 7 years old and up until about 3 months ago looked so identical I could barely tell them apart. Now, one of my hen's feathers are totally changing color, and she's looking more and more like the rooster I used to have, her father. Has anyone ever seen this and if so, any explanation for why this is happening? I've heard of a hen taking on the characteristics of a rooster, but she's actually the more submissive of the two. Thanks for any feedback!

 

[Fanci Feathers Marans]

Ha! He had you fooled. That's a roo. Tiny comb on him, though...

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

I have read of older hens who's sole functioning ovary quits. They suddenly feather out like a rooster because of the lack of female hormones. Some revert back to hens eventually, and some remain rooster like. They are still biologically female but look male. Should be interesting if she starts trying to crow and mate.

 

[Fanci Feathers Marans]

I have read of older hens who's sole functioning ovary quits. They suddenly feather out like a rooster because of the lack of female hormones. Some revert back to hens eventually, and some remain rooster like. They are still biologically female but look male. Should be interesting if she starts trying to crow and mate.

 

[andreanar]

I have read of older hens who's sole functioning ovary quits. They suddenly feather out like a rooster because of the lack of female hormones. Some revert back to hens eventually, and some remain rooster like. They are still biologically female but look male. Should be interesting if she starts trying to crow and mate.

No way!! Really? A hen can turn into a totally roo looking bird like the op picture?

 

[Fanci Feathers Marans]

That explains the small comb! It gets big and red because of testosterone, which she doesn't have.

 

[HenOnAJuneBug]

That is extraordinarily bizzare. Those are Welsummers, right?

 

[pineapple416]

Wow! You learn something new every day.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

No way!! Really? A hen can turn into a totally roo looking bird like the op picture?

I haven't seen it personally but have read about it in Backyard Poultry magazine.

 

[FlyWheel]

Do what i did when one of my sexed pullets turned out to be a rooster, rename 'her' Chaz. It would be even more apropos in her case!