Differences Between a Leghorn Rooster and Hen: How to Tell Them Apart
Leghorns are one of the most well-known chicken breeds in the world. Famous for their prolific egg-laying ability and high energy, they’re a favorite for backyard chicken keepers and commercial farms alike. But when raising young Leghorns, one common question arises: How do you tell the difference between a Leghorn rooster and a hen? This guide breaks down the physical and behavioral traits that set them apart.
Quick Answer: How to Tell a Leghorn Rooster From a Hen
Leghorn roosters are larger, more upright, have brighter, taller combs, and crow. Hens are smaller, more compact, and begin laying white eggs around 18–20 weeks. Both sexes can be white, brown, or other color varieties, but these key differences will help you spot the gender of your Leghorn chickens.
Leghorn Hen vs Rooster Comparison Chart
| Trait | Rooster | Hen |
|---|---|---|
| Comb Size | Larger, upright, more pronounced | Smaller, may flop over to one side |
| Wattles | Longer and brighter red | Smaller and paler (until laying age) |
| Tail Feathers | Long, curved sickle feathers | Straight tail feathers, shorter |
| Feather Shape | Pointed hackle and saddle feathers | Rounded feathers all over |
| Size and Posture | Taller, more upright and alert | More compact, relaxed posture |
| Behavior | Crows, more dominant, territorial | Clucks softly, focuses on nesting |
| Egg Laying | No eggs | Lays 250–300+ white eggs/year |
1. Comb and Wattles
Leghorns are known for their large, floppy combs—especially the single-comb variety. Roosters will have a much larger, more upright comb that is thick and bright red. Their wattles (the fleshy bits under the beak) are longer and more noticeable as well.
Hens also have combs and wattles, but they’re typically smaller and may droop slightly to one side as they mature, especially when egg laying begins.
2. Voice and Crowing
If you hear crowing, that’s your rooster. Roosters typically start crowing between 8–12 weeks of age, though some may begin earlier. It often starts with broken or squeaky sounds, but becomes a full-on “cock-a-doodle-doo” as they mature.
Hens never crow. Instead, they make quiet clucks, coos, and nesting calls—especially when preparing to lay.
3. Feather Differences
Feathers offer a reliable way to determine sex by about 10 weeks:
- Roosters: Develop long, thin, pointed saddle feathers near the base of the tail and long neck feathers called hackles.
- Hens: Have rounded, even feathers around the neck and back. Their tail feathers are upright but shorter and less dramatic.
4. Posture and Size
Roosters generally grow faster and end up taller and heavier than hens. They stand more upright, hold their chest out, and appear more alert. Hens have a more horizontal posture and a narrower body frame, particularly noticeable once they begin laying.
5. Behavior and Personality
You may notice personality differences as early as 6–8 weeks:
- Roosters: More likely to display dominant behavior, mock fights, or even begin trying to protect the flock. They may act territorial toward other birds or humans.
- Hens: Tend to be more docile, especially as they near laying age. They may crouch when approached and spend more time foraging or investigating nesting areas.
When Will a Leghorn Hen Start Laying?
Leghorn hens typically begin laying eggs between 18 and 22 weeks of age. You’ll notice their combs turning bright red, increased clucking, and possibly nesting box interest. Once they start, they’re among the best layers—producing 250–300+ large white eggs per year.
Can You Tell a Leghorn’s Gender as a Chick?
Some hatcheries use a method called vent sexing to identify gender in day-old chicks. However, for most backyard chicken keepers, visible sex differences become clear between 8–12 weeks. If you’re unsure early on, it’s best to wait until physical traits like comb growth and voice provide clarity.
Managing Roosters in Your Flock
If you’ve identified a Leghorn rooster in your flock, you’ll need to consider your goals and local regulations. Roosters aren’t required for egg production, but they do serve roles such as:
- Fertilizing eggs: If you plan to hatch your own chicks.
- Flock protection: Roosters will often sound alarms and challenge predators.
That said, not all areas allow roosters. If you live in a suburban neighborhood, check your zoning rules—many cities prohibit crowing birds.
Ideal Rooster-to-Hen Ratio
If you do keep roosters, aim for a ratio of 1 rooster per 8–10 hens. This prevents over-mating, which can cause stress or feather loss in hens. Keeping more than one rooster in small flocks can also lead to fighting and injuries.
Need a Coop That Works for Roosters and Hens?
Whether your flock is all hens or includes a proud Leghorn rooster, they all need a safe, spacious, and functional coop. Download these expert woodworking and survivalist plans to build your own predator-proof, customizable chicken coop at home.
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Conclusion
Telling the difference between a Leghorn rooster and hen becomes easier with time. Watch for comb and wattle size, posture, tail feathers, voice, and behavior. By 12 weeks, most differences are clear—by 20 weeks, they’re unmistakable.
Whether you’re raising them for eggs, breeding, or companionship, knowing their sex early helps you build a peaceful, productive flock. And with the right tools, resources, and knowledge, you’ll be ready for whatever your birds throw your way.
- The Doctor’s Book of Survival Home Remedies – Your go-to for poultry and natural health care
- Woodworking & DIY Plans – Build your own coop, water system, and more
Know your birds. Build their future. Be the flock leader they deserve.