12 week old Rhode Island Reds Gender .. Rooster or Hen ??!

[LilyBarkett]

Hi, we are raising 6 Rhode Island reds as layer hens. They are currently 12 weeks old. We were told that they are all female. Now we aren't so sure .. 2 of them are much larger and very territorial. I'd appreciate any help identifying their gender..! I've attached a couple of pics. Thanks!!

 

[TheKindaFarmGal]

You've got two cockerels and four pullets.

 

[LilyBarkett]

Thanks. I'm not sure what to do as we really only wanted layers. This is our first time raising chickens. Will the cockerels interfere with the hens laying? We really don't want them to breed either.

 

[DuckGirl77]

You've got two cockerels and four pullets.

x2

Thanks. I'm not sure what to do as we really only wanted layers. This is our first time raising chickens. Will the cockerels interfere with the hens laying? We really don't want them to breed either.

You should get rid of at least one rooster because two will probably fight and will be to hard on the hens. They won't interfere with laying, though, except they might stress the hens out if you keep both, which could reduce the amount of eggs you get. Sorry you got two roos

 

[keesmom]

We really don't want them to breed either.

Fertile eggs are no different than unfertilized eggs as long as you collect them daily. Unless you put them in an incubator or under a broody hen they will not develop.

That being said, I suggest you get rid of both cockerels since this is your first flock.

 

[LilyBarkett]

Thank you both for the advice. I really appreciate it.

 

[TheKindaFarmGal]

I started off with three roosters in our first flock. Two is too many for four hens, but you could keep one or get more hens. They won't interfere with hens laying eggs. They will fertilize eggs, but chicks only start developing after being held at a steady 100 degree temperature for three days in an incubator or under a broody hen.

 

[RhodeRunner]

Fertile eggs are no different than unfertilized eggs as long as you collect them daily. Unless you put them in an incubator or under a broody hen they will not develop.

That being said, I suggest you get rid of both cockerels since this is your first flock.

I guess I'm a cockerel softy! lol. I adore my roosters.

Anyway, if you are going to free-range, you might want to keep one rooster. They help keep an eye on the flock and protect the hens. As long as your boys are non-aggressive with the hens or people, they shouldn't pose any issues... they should be helpful.

 

[Hrairoo]

Roosters are good to have around, they will protect your girls when a predator comes near.. (Known someone whos roo sacrificed while protecting his hens from a bear)

 

[LilyBarkett]

That's really helpful to know thank you. They will be free range in our fenced in back yard so this makes me happy that we could keep one.