Tips on choosing pullets from a group of straight run cochins

[Blessedmamaof3]

I need tips on choosing pullets from a group of straight run, specifically cochins (standard and bantam) and maybe Blue laced red wyandotte. I am considering going to a local hatchery to got a few cochins but they only offer straight run. I am ok with 1 male but prefer mostly pullets. Thanks

 

[TheOddOneOut]

I need tips on choosing pullets from a group of straight run, specifically cochins (standard and bantam) and maybe Blue laced red wyandotte. I am considering going to a local hatchery to got a few cochins but they only offer straight run. I am ok with 1 male but prefer mostly pullets. Thanks

How old are they?
If they’re younger than three weeks, there’s basically no way to tell.

 

[EmmaRainboe]

There's no sure way to do it, just avoid big comb is really all you can do When they are so young.

 

[21hens-incharge]

While unproven I did manage 3 female silver laced cochins by choosing the absolute darkest in the straight run bin.

 

[Rhodebar Lover]

If starting to get feathers I would personally pick the ones that have the most feathers. Not definitive but pullets due typically feather in more quickly than cockerels. Any super slow to mature ones are likely cockerels as well

 

[Blessedmamaof3]

If starting to get feathers I would personally pick the ones that have the most feathers. Not definitive but pullets due typically feather in more quickly than cockerels. Any super slow to mature ones are likely cockerels as well

Thanks

 

[Rhodebar Lover]

Oh I should add as well that many many times the friendliest are cockerels. I don't think I have ever had a straight run batch with the boldest chicks being pullets. I would pick timid chicks that are the most feathered in. I would avoid any friendly ones

 

[Rhodebar Lover]

Sorry I keep blowing up this thread but I keep thinking of more things. What varieties of Cochins are you getting? If partridge, avoid any chicks with dark breast feathers and only picked chicks with pencilled breasts if they have their feathers. For the Wyandottes look for clear lacing on the wings without patchiness!

 

[Bigtom Turkey]

If starting to get feathers I would personally pick the ones that have the most feathers. Not definitive but pullets due typically feather in more quickly than cockerels. Any super slow to mature ones are likely cockerels as well

Exactly what I was thinking.

 

[CrazyCochin]

Try going for the ones with the longest primary wing feathers, and shorter secondary feathers!