How to Identify Jogoos (Male Chicks) at 4 Weeks Old – A Guide for New Farmers
As a poultry farmer, it's common to receive requests from customers who want only jogoos (male chicks) at four weeks old, especially for meat production (kuku wa nyama). However, sexing chicks at that age is not always easy unless you know what to look for. Here’s a simple guide to help you differentiate jogoos from madada (hens) and build confidence when selecting chicks for your farm (shamba).
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Comb and Wattle Development (Kipande cha kichwa na mashavu): At four weeks, jogoos usually have larger, more pronounced combs (midomo ya juu ya kichwa) and wattles (mashavu) than madada. The combs may start turning red (rangi ya damu) while the hens’ combs remain pale and small.
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Size and Posture (Ukubwa na msimamo): Jogoos grow faster and appear slightly bigger with a proud, upright stance (msimamo wa ujasiri). Their legs are thicker compared to the slim legs of hens.
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Feathering Differences (Manyoya): Male chicks develop feathers more slowly. At 4 weeks, their tail feathers may be shorter or uneven. Hens often have neater and more developed tail feathers (manyoya ya mkia).
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Behavior (Tabia): Jogoos are more active, adventurous, and may show early signs of dominance such as mock fighting or attempting to crow (kuwika).
Jambo la Muhimu: These signs are helpful, but not 100% accurate. As your trusted supplier, I observe the chicks closely and select jogoos with experience and care (umakini). If you ever doubt, I welcome you to visit or ask for a short video before collection.
Let’s grow your poultry business together — kwa mafanikio ya shamba lako!
