Sexing Serama bantams.

Sexing Serama bantam chickens is difficult, they are a new breed with little history and a complex genetic makeup inherited from other breeds. I have never been able to sex mine accurately before they are 4 to 6 weeks of age.

Male Serama chickens have pointy feathers along their necks and back while the feathers on the hens are more rounded at the ends.

It has been said that females feather up faster than males but I'm not convinced of this myself. It may be that some strains have feather sexing genes and some do not.

Below: A comparison between a male (left) and female (right) Serama chick.

You can see the difference in the comb size and colour and the male on the left has thicker legs and a more upright standing position.

How to sex Serama bantam chickens:

Serama chicks can not be accurately sexed by their size, feathers or patterns.

Chickens in general and Serama in particular can be sexed by :

• The comb and wattles - The comb and wattles grow faster in males than in females.
• Stature and body position - Males have thicker, stronger legs and a more upright stance than the hens do.
• Vent sexing - The shape and structure of the vent can be used to sex Serama bantams. This method requires much training and care.
• Behaviour - Male Serama behave differently and will play fight and spa with other males in an attempt to establish dominance.
• Genetic testing - An expensive but accurate method.

Below: This is a Serama cockerel. You can see the pointed streamer feathers on the neck and back.

Below: This is a Serama hen. Shes has a smaller comb and more rounded feathers.