Silver Spangled Appenzeller Spitzhauben Sexing

[MamaHen11]

hi all!

I received 3 of these beauties a few days ago and was wondering what those who are familiar with the breed look for as markers for sexing while the chick grows.

I’ve heard lots of different things for other breeds- comb/wattle development, early wing/tail feathers, barring, etc.... help a newbie out!

 

[Redhead Rae]

photos?

 

[MamaHen11]

photos?

They are only 3 days old... so I’m more looking for what to look for as they grow, but I’ll take some anyway

 

[Gray Farms]

Spitzhaubens "like other crested breeds" are very difficult to sex when they are young because of the crest. Add to that they are very slow maturing. Their combs and wattles develop late as do the saddle feathers of cockerels. I've raised Silver Spitzhaubens for 7 years now and I still can't tell for sure until they are around 4 months of age.

 

[MamaHen11]

 

[MamaHen11]

Spitzhaubens "like other crested breeds" are very difficult to sex when they are young because of the crest. Add to that they are very slow maturing. Their combs and wattles develop late as do the saddle feathers of cockerels. I've raised Silver Spitzhaubens for 7 years now and I still can't tell for sure until they are around 4 months of age.

Haha oh man, I’m truly hoping I don’t raise three males for four months!

ETA- throw in my three Polish and I’m in for a long wait with this batch.

 

[Gray Farms]

Yes, your going to have to exercise much patience.

 

[MamaHen11]

Yes, your going to have to exercise much patience.

Something to keep me busy while the garden sleeps, I guess!

 

[drumstick diva]

agree with Gray Farms. If you really want to go nuts, add young silkies to the mix

 

[MamaHen11]

photos?

Yes, your going to have to exercise much patience.

agree with Gray Farms. If you really want to go nuts, add young silkies to the mix

Are your chicks friendly?

Mine are always climbing on my hands, snoozing when held, and love chin scratches. Should I prepare for them to get more aloof as they age? I’ve read a lot of comments that say they’re not particularly people oriented....