Rooster or not? (Pic)

[ssteiner]

I've had a Rhode Island Red and a Buff Orpington for about 6 weeks now. We got them just a few days old. The reason I've posted this is to get some opinions. My Orpington (Judy) has a far less pronounced comb than the RIR (Rita). Never having raised chickens before, I just wondered what some of you more experienced people thought on seeing this picture.

 

[debilorrah]

Can we see the rear end? that might help, though the chick is pretty young to know just yet.

 

[Joy1]

Haven't got a clue, but he has a male look in his eye.

 

[ssteiner]

Here (s)he is from behind. We really hope she's a hen, as we can't keep a rooster but really love her already. When will I know? Thanks for your help.

 

[funonahonda]

Looks like a boy to me.

 

[dangerouschicken]

I also say boy, because from that backside shot, he looks to be reddening up on those waddles.

 

[ssteiner]

So, when does one know for sure? This saddens me. If I have to give her up, do I just go buy another chick and raise her and then put her with the other, older hen? Won't the older hen be lonely when I get rid of her friend? This is all very distressing.

 

[debilorrah]

I feel for you really - I have heard that you should know at about 14-16 weeks, when they crow/croak.

 

[Reinbeau]

People are always quick to call a bird a roo. Can you get a shot from the side, showing the whole side through to the tail? We're looking for the signs of saddle feathers, I don't see any in that rear-shot you posted.

 

[c.wilson]

well i kinda think hen or it could be roo to because with standards hens usually have big combs but who knows just giving u my opinion