Rooster or Hen

[mamachick04]

We are new to raising chickens. Can anyone tell me how I can tell the difference between a hen and a rooster?

 

[Michael OShay]

Welcome to BYC. Glad you decided to join our flock. The answer to your question depends on the age and type of chicken. Auto-sexing breeds and sex-linked hybrids can be sexed when they hatch as the males and females are colored differently. With most standard breeds and hybrids, it takes a few weeks longer. As they mature (5-8 weeks or so), the males will begin to develop larger and redder combs and wattles. At around 12 to 16 weeks, males will begin to develop longer pointed hackle, saddle, and sickle feathers than females. Of course at some point (usually around 4-5 months but can be much earlier or later), males will begin crowing. Please feel free to ask any other questions you may have. We are here to help in any way we can. Cheers.

 

[drumstick diva]

I agree with Michael . Welcome to Backyard chickens.

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! I'm glad you joined us!

 

[Chicken Girl1]

Welcome to BYC. Glad you decided to join our flock. The answer to your question depends on the age and type of chicken. Auto-sexing breeds and sex-linked hybrids can be sexed when they hatch as the males and females are colored differently. With most standard breeds and hybrids, it takes a few weeks longer. As they mature (5-8 weeks or so), the males will begin to develop larger and redder combs and wattles. At around 12 to 16 weeks, males will begin to develop longer pointed hackle, saddle, and sickle feathers than females. Of course at some point (usually around 4-5 months but can be much earlier or later), males will begin crowing. Please feel free to ask any other questions you may have. We are here to help in any way we can. Cheers.

x2 and

!

 

[mrscluckingham]

Welcome, this is a fun place to "hang out."