What Am I Looking For?

[Homeschooling Homestead]

Hello all!!
I have 6 SLW chicks about to be 4 weeks old. I am VERY impatiently waiting for the 5 week mark, as I've seen many of you say I "should" be able to tell by 5 weeks if my chicks are pullets or cockerels.

So here's my question: what am I looking for? I know the combs/wattles should be bright red if they're cockerels. But from what I'm understanding, even the pullets will have some red/rose color. So, what are some other distinguishing features in SLWs?? I just want to have a clear understanding of what it is I'm looking for because there is SO much information out there. Thanks y'all!!

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Males will get pink and than red combs by 8 weeks. Pullets will remain a light pink.

 

[Homeschooling Homestead]

I have some updated photos!!!! I have a hard time telling them all apart. There is one out of all six that has a single comb instead of a rose comb. All my babies are now 5 weeks old. I have not noticed a SIGNIFICANT development of combs or wattles. At least, none that look like what I've seen other 5 week SLW look like as cockerels. They definitely have some development of wattles and combs. But all that I can see are not bright red. I know it's still going to take time. But thought I'd post some updated photos. I should also mention these were all bought at Tractor Supply Company. So I'm sure not pure bred or greatest quality. View attachment 2119627View attachment 2119632View attachment 2119634View attachment 2119636View attachment 2119638View attachment 2119639View attachment 2119640

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Nothing looks male yet. One does have a single comb which can happen.

 

[Homeschooling Homestead]

An updated photos! I have one that I'm still questioning. Most of them I am 99% sure are pullets. This one has me confused. 12 weeks tomorrow. If it is a cockerel, when should I expect a crow?