Roosters or hens?

[drumstick diva]

pullets

 

[Pstock44]

So what's the determining factors? Tail feathers and short neck feathering? I've noticed the roosters seem to have a "mane". Will the other hens combs grow larger also? Sorry, maybe just a bit excited today.

 

[junebuggena]

So what's the determining factors? Tail feathers and short neck feathering? I've noticed the roosters seem to have a "mane". Will the other hens combs grow larger also? Sorry, maybe just a bit excited today.

Males develop different feathers at about 10 weeks of age. The neck, back, and tail feathers are all differently shape from the females. The easiest place to see the feathering difference is in the back (saddle). Do you see how broad and rounded the back feathers are on the females? Now compare those feathers to the long, thin, pointed back feathers of the rooster.

 

[Pstock44]

Yes, thank you. Not heard that description about the feathers before. It was pics I've seen of the combs that had me wondering.

This is such a cool hobby I've gotten into and everyone at BYCS is so great!

Males develop different feathers at about 10 weeks of age. The neck, back, and tail feathers are all differently shape from the females. The easiest place to see the feathering difference is in the back (saddle). Do you see how broad and rounded the back feathers are on the females? Now compare those feathers to the long, thin, pointed back feathers of the rooster.