How to Identify Baby Chickens

Going into poultry with a little fore-knowledge ensures that you get what you pay for. While all chicks are similar in appearance, there are a few tell-tale signs that separate one breed from another.

Things You'll Need

  • Field guide to poultry
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Instructions

    • 1

      Look at the color of the chicks, first and foremost. This is the number one identifier of most birds, even when young. Leghorn chicks are hatched yellow, with yellow legs; Barred Rock chicks are largely black with a little white, and Rhode Island Red chicks are red with yellow markings, according to "The Field Guide to Chickens" by Pam Percy.

    • 2

      Look at the head of the chick. Some breeds, such as Polish chicks have a feather crest.

    • 3

      Look at the legs of the chick. Brahma and Cochin chicks are hatched with feathered legs.