08-29-2025, 09:12 PM
A simple, non-invasive way to guess chick sex early. Works mainly on fast-feathering breeds (like layers, broilers and some hybrids).
A. Female Chicks (Pullets):
The primary feathers (longer ones at the edge) grow out faster than the covert feathers (shorter ones covering them).
This creates a “two-step” pattern — long feathers + short feathers.
B. Male Chicks (Cockerels):
Primaries and coverts grow at about the same rate.
The wing looks smooth and even, forming a single curve.
C. When It Works Best:
Most reliable in the first 1–3 days after hatching.
After that, the differences become harder to see.
D. Accuracy:
Can be 80–90% accurate when done by skilled hands.
Not reliable for all chicken breeds (especially slow-feathering ones).
Hatcheries often use it alongside vent sexing or simply wait until chicks mature.
E. Why It’s Useful:
Quick, cheap, and doesn’t harm the chick.
Handy for backyard farmers and small breeders.
Feather sexing is a smart trick, but it only works on some breeds and very early in life.
A. Female Chicks (Pullets):
The primary feathers (longer ones at the edge) grow out faster than the covert feathers (shorter ones covering them).
This creates a “two-step” pattern — long feathers + short feathers.
B. Male Chicks (Cockerels):
Primaries and coverts grow at about the same rate.
The wing looks smooth and even, forming a single curve.
C. When It Works Best:
Most reliable in the first 1–3 days after hatching.
After that, the differences become harder to see.
D. Accuracy:
Can be 80–90% accurate when done by skilled hands.
Not reliable for all chicken breeds (especially slow-feathering ones).
Hatcheries often use it alongside vent sexing or simply wait until chicks mature.
E. Why It’s Useful:
Quick, cheap, and doesn’t harm the chick.
Handy for backyard farmers and small breeders.
Feather sexing is a smart trick, but it only works on some breeds and very early in life.