Sussex Hen or Rooster

[CapoBro]

I am certain about the 32 weeks. We got these as chicks in March. This one tries to crow (it's not very loud). Also he doesn't squat like the hens do when I walk up to them. The thing that makes me doubt is the lack of spurs and that it doesn't appear to have saddle or tail feathers typical of the sussex rooster pics I see.

 

[WalkingOnSunshine]

For 8 months old you should see saddle feathers, and I aint. Are you sure its 32 weeks old? It should be laying eggs if a hen or crowing and mating by now if a rooster.

This is confusing me, too. Does anyone know if Sussex can get henny-feathered roosters? If that's what's going on, here's an interesting thread on hen-feathered roosters. https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/574747/hen-feathering

I'm not bothered by the lack of spurs. Those often don't develop for a while. But if it's starting to crow, there's your answer.

 

[ramirezframing]

Spurs start coming in around a year old and as the bird ages the spurs get longer. You could always put it in a pen or wire dog kennel by itself for a few weeks to see if it lays an egg.

 

[donrae]

I can't say for sure from the photos. How about a clear, close profile shot? I agree, it's a big comb, but the legs are thin and I'm not seeing near the roo characteristics I'd expect at this age. Could be a really slow maturing rooster, but I've not seen that with Sussex much.

 

[One Chick Two]

Would it work to check the bones around the vent to see if it's widening for egg production?