Classification of Sex-Linked Early and Late Feathering in 10-Week-Old Chickens

Warren and Gordon (1935) found that the juvenile primaries, axial, and secondary feathers were molted four to six weeks earlier in White Leghorns which were early feathered than in Rhode Island Reds and Light Brahmas which were late feathered. It has not been generally recognized, however, that this difference is consistent enough to classify early and late feathering within a single strain of birds. For the present study, wing and tail feather development between 6 and 12 weeks of age was examined in early feathering and late feathering stocks, which included New Hampshires, White Plymouth Rocks, Black Australorps, and various crossbreds. Definite differences were noted for the pattern of molt in early and late feathering chicks, regardless of breed. Most early feathering chicks could be distinguished at any time, between 6 and 12 weeks of age by the presence of both juvenile plumage (first set) and post-juvenile plumage (second set) . . .