Pale combs

[james_joni]

some of my meat birds have really pale combs. Is this a gender thing or is it a nutrition thing?
thanks!
Joni

 

[dacjohns]

I have read that it is a sign of sexual maturity and if they are laying. Red combs and wattles in a female means it is laying or ready to lay.

 

[Richard]

Quote:
Well I am no expert but with my cornish cross which will be 8 weeks old tomorrow all the hens have pale looking combs the males combs are all bright red so yours sound normal however if any starting getting a bluish tint its a sign of heart problems

 

[james_joni]

Thanks, i think that must be it. they are about 8 wks old as well.

 

[Firewhirrrl]

I am thankful for this very brief and Untechnical statement!

I am to process my Cornish crosses today and I have spent the last two nights sleep utterly concerned about the pale combs.

I would add that meat chickens are not the same as regular chickens, therefor the "egg laying" advice and or worm advice does not apply here.
And really, these birds are freaks anyways...

Mine are looking healthy and are alert and reasonably active... I even see them running and chasing my other chicks away from the food.

Now I am able to process and eat the birds without worry that I am eating sick or diseased birds.