Roo question

[ChrystalGail]

Hi, I have about 15 4 almost 5 week old chicks that were straight run. I was wondering if only the roosters are the ones that chest bump eachother or will the hens do it as well? I'm just trying to identify what I have.

Thanks!!

 

[DementedHam]

hello, generally roos do do that to establish a peking order but some hens do that too. try to go by comb and wattle size. also, in some cases thickness in legs also help differ the sexes.

 

[bigzio]

ChrystalGail, another thing to watch is the tail feathers. Usually pullets will develop the tails sooner than the cockerals do. My hens do chest but alot, making sure the alpha hen is really the boss.

bigzio