What gender?

[HarmonyFox]

I'm a little worried that this is a boy and we're 90% posotive its a cornish cross. I'm worried if it's a boy we won't be able to keep it because it could hurt the hens when it tries to mount. I got it because it was labled California White but my local tractor supply has really been lacking when it comes to correctly labeling their chicks. I have no intention of eating it and would preferably like to keep it alive because the smaller chicks have a fit without it and we've already named it. We named it Big Bird and then later found out it was a Cornish Cross. Funny coincidence.

 

[Frazzemrat1]

that's a cockerel.
If its a Cornish x and you want to keep it, your going to have to put it on a heavily regimented diet and exercise to keep its little heart from giving out when it hits 10 weeks old.

 

[Jetblack2004]

Cockerel

 

[HarmonyFox]

that's a cockerel.
If its a Cornish x and you want to keep it, your going to have to put it on a heavily regimented diet and exercise to keep its little heart from giving out when it hits 10 weeks old.

Do you think he could hurt the other chickens when he tries to mount them?

 

[Crazy for Chickens!]

Sorry to say, but it would really be best to give him away, or butcher him when he reaches maturity.
I know it's hard when you are attached to birds, but his life will just be miserable if you don't. Those birds often have broken legs from the weight, and since they aren't meant to live old, he won't hardly be able to get around.

 

[kumquat]

There are a couple of good threads on what people have done to successfully keep Cornish Xs alive for longer. Search for "Toads." People have reported CXs mating hens with out injury, however the resulting offspring also have shortened lives. Limiting food, protein levels, providing plenty of exercise, and early introduction to free-range foraging can help. You will also need to provide a lower roosting option (landing from high up can contribute to leg issues). However, even with the most attentive care, as far as I have seen most males usually have a life expectancy of <1 year. Their pulmonary systems simply can't keep up.