How to raise Backyard Chickens: Re: [CHICKENS-101] Black Austrolorp

Tuesday, June 5, 2012

Re: [CHICKENS-101] Black Austrolorp - pullet or cockerel

Look at your chicken in comparison to other breeds of about the same size. If it is a rooster, the feet and legs should be much bigger, with thicker shanks. Hackle feathers (at the base of the neck) and saddle feathers (at the base of the tail) will be pointed at the ends. His posture should be more upright and tall than a hen's. His behavior towards you should be more bold and fearless. These are the clues that told me I had a cockerel before he began to crow. (That was a RIR. My Silkie cockerel started crowing at 8 weeks! I was shocked!)

Maureen and the girls at the
Rowdy Girls Ranch
Marana, AZ

In a message dated 6/4/2012 12:24:06 P.M. US Mountain Standard Time, hoosierbunny@ymail.com writes:

Hi,

We have started a backyard flock this year, and are trying to determine the hens from roos.

In question is a near 3 month old Black Austrolorp. We only have one of this breed, making it difficult. S/he is very friendly, but it's the bright red comb and waddle that have got me baffled. I took a look at some photos of this breed, and the waddles on my chicken are definitely not as long as those in photos of roos. However, I'd like to know at what age I might expect to see some maturity in these features. Can sex be determined at 3 months in this breed?

Our RIR roo (same age) began crowing last week. Nothing yet from this little guy/gal.

Thanks for your help on a new person's question!
Kelly Indiana

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