Lavender Orpington Male or Female

[BEggRN]

I am new to raising chickens and have 4 different breeds. I got them all at the same time, so they are similar in age and about 6 weeks old. 2 were straight run and 2 pullets. I am hoping for all hens, but suspicious that my Lavender Orpington is a male. Would love the opinion of some experienced folk; especially those of you who have raised Lavender Orpingtons. Thanks!

 

[Chick-N-Fun]

Yes...that lavender Orpington is a cockerel. Can you keep him???

 

[Peppercorngal]

I agree, the lavender Orp looks like a boy. He is lovely and I hope you can keep him! Good breeding stock!

 

[BEggRN]

I agree, the lavender Orp looks like a boy. He is lovely and I hope you can keep him! Good breeding stock!

Not sure I'm quite ready to breed

 

[MountainWoman73]

He's beautiful!

 

[Peppercorngal]

Not sure I'm quite ready to breed

You are not the one that has to be ready. Hens go broody when you least expect it! At least having fertile eggs helps them not to waste time setting eggs that will never hatch!

 

[BEggRN]

Yes...that lavender Orpington is a cockerel. Can you keep him???

Yes...that lavender Orpington is a cockerel. Can you keep him???

I "can" keep him, but not sure I want a rooster in my flock (or if my neighbors would appreciate it). I have some friends who have connections and can help me find a new home if needed.

 

[Frazzemrat1]

Agreed, he's a cockerel. You can be ready to breed when you're ready. Just take the eggs every day and you won't have to worry about it. They're still very edible, and don't taste any different.

 

[BEggRN]

Updated photo of my Lavender Orp at about 9 weeks. I can't tell much about the feathers yet. Still thinking roo?

 

[Frazzemrat1]

yep, that comb says cockerel all the way.
Cockerel until he's a year, then he'll be a roo.