Pullets with red waddles and combs?

[3baymares]

So, what age can you relax about your "pullets" having red waddles and combs. I assume it is close to
sexual maturity. Ours are 15 weeks old now. and they are making laying calling sounds sometimes.
This is just normal practicing right? That doesn't mean they are on the brink of starting to lay right?

 

[Pyxis]

Their combs and wattles do start to turn red when they get close to laying. If you're concerned that you might have a rooster if you post a full body shot we can ease your mind And just so you know, it's actually 'wattles'. 'Waddles' is how a duck walks It's a common mistake but I thought you'd want to know!

 

[3baymares]

Ha! Wattles! OK got it. What angle is the most helpful with body shots?

 

[Pyxis]

A side shot really helps so we can see the profile. Also, looks like a barred rock. Is it much lighter compared to your others? Cockerels are much lighter than pullets, because they are double barred while pullets are single barred. Also, are you seeing any long, thin, shiny, pointy feathers coming in in its saddle and hackle? If so that would also mean it's a cockerel.

 

[Kylea0219]

Looks normal to me. Mine have been like that since that age. Here's my Dominique hen at 16 weeks.

we are at 18 weeks now and still no eggs. But closer. They seem to practice egg songs a lot. Some breeds can start laying as soon as 16 weeks so it could be soon. Yours doesn't look all the way developed yet not as bright of a red as it will be either.