Question about chicks and feathering

[logansmommy7]

I have 12 black australorp chicks that I got from TS...they are doing well but I'm wondering, about half have already developed wing feathers and the other half or so are developing more slowly...is there a method to tell which ones are roosters versus hens with this? I know it may not be full proof but wondering. I also have 3 new hampshire reds, a few days olders than the BAs but they all are evenly feathered...their wings are coming in but not hugely. I know it varies from breed to breed but does anyone know?

 

[Lollipop]

Been my experience that cockerals feather slower than pullets, at least with the breeds I`ve kept over the years. Wings and tails are first with pullets.......Pop

 

[logansmommy7]

I hope that is a good thing, because I have fewer that are slowly growing their feathers...hopefully all of the NHR that I got are not all roosters...OY! I guess I will see when they crow or lay an egg! Any others with opinions on the feathering? One of my BA chicks is always coming at me when I clean out the water (the shavings get in there constantly)...he (I think) is a male...and his feathers are growing VERY slowly. I guess we will see.

 

[they'reHISchickens]

If I were choosing leghorns, I'd go for the ones with the most feathering for pullets. Nothing scientific, just experience.