From the very first coop to the current set-up… it’s been quite a journey at TBN Ranch. I’ve said a million times to build a coop right the first time, if you don’t, you’ll end up spending even more later. Here’s why…
Bargain coops aren’t a bargain if they only hold up for two years and you have to buy another. If they’re too small or hard to clean, chicken keeping becomes an unwanted chore, and that’s especially true in inclement weather. How do I know? Well, as you can see, I’ve paid my dues…
Bottom line… plan, prepare and know your goal… before you buy or build, and always build bigger than you need. If you need ideas on coop types or entire set-ups, visit me on Pinterest. You’ll find over a thousand pics of chicken coop types, brooder & nest box ideas, building plans, set-up ideas, and way more.
It’s difficult, but not totally impossible to determine the sex of a Silkie. There are signs that can help you long before the first egg or crow of a rooster. Behavior and size can be good indications of sex.
Roosters are often bold, have that sturdy or stronger look, and sometimes they are larger. These are noticeable traits, even when chicks are still in the brooder. Look for the brighter, or sharper distinctions of color in birds when they reach 8 or 9 weeks. Roosters seem to stand out more, dazzling you with a little wow factor.
These Silkies are all just under 3 months old, 2 white, and 2 buffs. The white Silkie pictured below is probably a rooster. He is much larger and has been at the top of the pecking order since the second week of life. The size between pic 1 and 2 is obvious, recognizing behavior traits is something you’ll notice by watching your own birds.
All we really can do is learn the behavior traits of roosters and recognize indications such as size. But I must admit, I’ve been positive about having a Silkie rooster… and been surprised 6 months later when it laid an egg. Gotta love those Silkie Bantams!
