Sexing Silkie Chicks

[laxrick]

I have some rapidly-growing silkie chicks that are about four weeks old. Does anyone have any tips on sexing these chicks?

I can find a bunch of difficult methods for sexing day old chicks, however, I think it should probably be easier at four weeks of age.

 

[pbjmaker]

I have heard that silkies can be difficult to sex until older. Mine are about 7 weeks now and I wish I knew. Supposedly the girls have more of a "poof-ball" type crest (think very round) where the males get more of a slicked back crest. If that is true I have one pullet, three boys, and one that could go either way...

 

[swtangel321]

Silkies are the hardest to sex, by 4 weeks you will still have no idea.

The best way to know is when they crow or lay an egg !!

If you have any pics that might be helpful !!

 

[Smartie_Pants]

Silkies cannot possibly be sexed that young. I have seen 5 and 6 month old silkies that are unsexable. Even if you try, there is a big possibility you could get the guesses wrong because the roo-est looking bird can end up laying an egg

You'll just have to wait until the crowing begins at 5-7 months.

 

[andorraclaim]

I know some old-timers that swear by the "picking it up by the head" method. I've sexed this way before and the results do show you who the more aggressive babies are(the supposed Roo's). The ones that tested as Roo's do have thicker legs (but this could mean they are slightly older than the supposed Pullets). When I hit the half year mark we will see how accurate it is.

Some also swear by the pendulum method. Search for it on the forums for a description. Silkies are pretty adrongynous until half a year tho....