Based on tail feathering, what gender do these appear to be do you think?

[Melsbels]

Hey all!

Here we have some almost 8 week old Speckled Sussex chicks.

Their combs are really putting me off, I can't say that any are particularly large or pinkish/red. But I have noticed their feathering on the tails to be different!

What do you all think?

The first 3 photos are of - Millie
The second 2 - Florence
The third 3 - Chippy
Florence & Chippy appear to have the same feathering on the tail, Millie is different.

Thanks for your particular in the game!

 

[JedJackson]

Basing gender on tail feathers at that age isn't going to get you far. Both males and females can have funky tail feathers at that age, and those feathers will soon molt out as the birds grow. Basing it off combs, I think you have three females.

 

[Melsbels]

Basing gender on tail feathers at that age isn't going to get you far. Both males and females can have funky tail feathers at that age, and those feathers will soon molt out as the birds grow. Basing it off combs, I think you have three females.

There you go! I learn something new everyday
Thank you for your response!

 

[thlayli]

Faces are more likely to get you answers at this age. C: And shoulders. A full picture of the whole bird, preferably in profile, will be the most accurate way to tell if it's a male or female.

 

[AinaWGSD]

Agreed, tail feathers aren't a reliable way to determine gender at 8 weeks. Male specific feathering doesn't start coming in until around 12 weeks, sometimes even later.

Based on combs, it's likely that these are all pullets. Sussex cockerels are more likely to have obviously red combs at 8 weeks.