sexing chicks

[levi krauss]

Does anyone out there know any good technics to sexing out roosters form the hens at the local feed store.

 

[Kathrynmodra]

I'm a bit of a newbie myself, I've only had chickens a few months. But I have been researching this like crazy, as I have a box of chicks in my kitchen and want to know how many roosters I brought!

So main indicators:

- redder and/or larger combs and wattles
- thicker legs (some times, so far seems true with my box of chicks)
- cockerels can be slower at growing in feathers (I read this but am yet to apply it)
- if they are old enough pointy saddle feathers, although I believe they have to be over 10 weeks or more to recognise this.

I think the main point is the redder combs and wattles.

I think most of these points are for a few weeks old. In think day olds are too difficult to tell without vent sexing. You may be able to purchase sexed chicks from your feed store too. I did this with my first lot and got all lovely pullets.

Good luck!