Did you know there are chicken eggs that will let you know the exact sex of the chicks right after they hatch? The Golden Sex Links are a good common example of this phenomenon.
As sex-linked animals, the Golden Sex Links make the process of identifying sex easier since they are sex-linked crosses whose hatched chicks have two distinct colors, one color that identifies males and another female, thereby helping farmers know which chicks will turn into roosters or hens by just looking.
This article will walk you through the exciting origin and history of the Golden Sex Links and how they got to possess such a unique feature.
Read on to dive into a complete care guide on how to best take care of these beautiful creations. Spoilers, it’s easy!
Golden Sex Link Chicken Origins and Overview
A Golden Sex Link chicken is a hybrid type of chicken that is believed to have originated in the Netherlands due to a specific cross-breed of a gold-based rooster and a silver-based hen.
It is important to note that the gold sex link comes from two distinct chicken breeds, but the number of breeds that can create the Golden sex links varies.
Meaning you can create a Golden Sex Link by cross-breeding the Rhode Island Red male and the White Plymouth Rock female, as well as other breeds like Delaware, Rhode Island Whites, Leghorns, and Wyandotte.
Different hatcheries will use the same name to refer to various cross-breeds that bring about offspring with the same appearance. Even though the qualities are the same, other hatcheries will use different names, including Golden Buff, Cinnamon Queen, and Golden Comet.
The common cross-breed of Rhode Island Red and White Plymouth Rock means that the Golden Sex Links will inherit the high egg production (above 250 per year) of their parents and even add more value to it.
Another interesting aspect of cross-breeding is the sex-linked crosses. This is where specific breeds of chicken (in this case, the Golden Sex Links) are created, where it is easy to tell the females and males apart just by observing the chick’s plumage after the eggs hatch.
Male Golden Sex Links are solid white or with a predominantly paler coloration, while the females have a streaked red or gold coloration. This color distinction between the two sexes stays on throughout their lives without ever changing.
The hybrid sex-linked crosses are important since they help in quickly identifying the sexes when the chickens are still young. This allows the farmers to raise the chickens differently: females as hens for laying eggs and males as roosters for other production purposes.
Gold Sex Links are known for their high egg production of about 250 – 320 eggs annually. The chickens mature faster than most breeds and start laying eggs at a very early age, about 16 weeks old. They are also active poultry with a confident and friendly temperament.
| Names | Golden Sex Link/ Golden Sexlink/Gold Sex links
Also known as the Bovan Brown, Cinnamon Queen, Golden Buff |
| Origins & Distribution | Originated in the Netherlands
Distributed worldwide in over 60 countries, including lots of population in the US during the 1970s. |
| Color | Female: golden-red Male: white-cream |
| Comb Type | Single |
| Average Adult Size | 18 – 20 inches |
| Average Adult Weight | Male: 5.7 – 7 lbs.
Female: 5.2 – 6 lbs. |
| Average Egg Production | 250+ eggs per year |
| Egg Size | Large |
| Egg Color | Brown |
| Average Lifespan | 4 – 5 years |
| Broodiness | Average |
| Main Breed Purpose | Egg Laying |
| Climate & Temperature Tolerance | High Cold Hardiness |
| Diet | Omnivorous |
Golden Sex Link Appearance
Females have beautiful golden-red plumage, while males have some variations of white or cream-colored feathers on the neck and tail.
Both sexes have shiny and lustrous feathers, giving them an overall vibrant and appealing look. Additionally, the Golden Sex Link chickens have a sturdy build, medium-sized body, and a well-rounded shape that further adds to their visual appeal.
Golden Sex Link Temperament & Broodiness
One of the standout qualities of Golden Sex Link chickens is their friendly and docile nature. These chickens are known for their calm temperament, making them a fantastic choice for families or beginners in chicken keeping.
They adapt well to both free-range and confined environments, and their easygoing disposition makes them ideal for households with children or other pets.
When it comes to broodiness, the Golden Sex Links are not broody because of the fact that they are hybrids. Hybrids retain some of the characteristics of the original breed, but the result of cross-breeding creates docile chickens that cannot brood.
It is important to remember that hybrids do not breed true in the second generation. It is by design; hence they are created without the intention of ever breeding. With this in mind, they have more capabilities to lay more eggs compared to non-hybrid chickens.
Golden Sexlink Egg Production & Color
They produce brown eggs.
Golden Sex Link hens are renowned for their exceptional egg-laying abilities, making them a favorite among backyard chicken keepers.
These hens are prolific layers, consistently producing a high number of large eggs. On average, they can lay around 250+ eggs per year, providing a steady supply of fresh eggs for your family or small-scale egg production.
Golden Sexlink Chickens produce large brown eggs, which are prized for their rich color and nutritional value. On average, their eggs are medium to large in size, ranging from 2.0 to 2.4 ounces.
Due to their hybrid nature, Golden Sex Link hens are not typically broody, meaning they are less likely to exhibit the natural instinct to sit on and hatch eggs.
While this characteristic can be advantageous for those focusing on egg production, alternative methods, such as artificial incubation, may be necessary if you are interested in hatching eggs.
Golden Sex Link Chicken Care Guide
Food & Diet
Feed the Golden Sex Links an omnivorous diet rich in protein and minerals. Offer a balanced diet consisting of high-quality poultry feed supplemented with fresh fruits, vegetables, and occasional treats.
A diet rich in high-quality poultry feed supplemented with fresh greens and occasional treats contributes to their overall health and egg production.
You should also ensure access to clean water at all times.
Health Checks & Exercise
Regular health checks, parasite control, and vaccinations, as recommended by a veterinarian, are essential to prevent any potential health issues.
Additionally, providing them with adequate space for exercise and proper movement in and outside their coop contributes to their overall well-being and happiness.
Habitat
It is recommended that three Golden Sex Links of average adult size are kept in a spacious housing of more than 12 square feet of floor space.
The bigger the floor space, the better, but keep in mind that the chickens also need to be outside in an airier and bigger space with at least twice the square footage.
Their coop’s cleanliness and proper ventilation are essential to ensure proper air flow and an airy atmosphere to help their bodies function optimally.
Environmental Conditions
Keep a calm and social environment with a flock of at least three other poultry to keep them social and interactive.
When selecting Golden Sex Links, it’s essential to ensure that you are obtaining them from reputable breeders or hatcheries. This ensures that you receive healthy and well-bred birds that meet the breed standards.
Take the time to research and find breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of their chickens.
Once you have your Golden Sex Links, provide them with the care and attention they need to thrive. Remember to provide a balanced diet, ample space, and a clean-living environment.
Golden Sex Link Common Problems & Diseases
Golden Sex Links have a robust constitution and are generally healthy birds. However, regular health checks, parasite control, and vaccinations are essential to prevent any potential health issues.
Like any chicken breed, Golden Sex Link Chickens are susceptible to certain diseases. Some common health issues include:
- Respiratory Infections: Chickens can develop respiratory infections caused by bacteria or viruses, leading to symptoms like coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing.
- External Parasites: Parasites such as mites and lice can infest the feathers and skin of chickens, causing discomfort and potential health problems.
- Egg-Related Issues: Egg-binding, soft-shelled eggs, or other reproductive disorders may occur in Golden Sex Link Chickens, requiring prompt veterinary attention.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Golden Sex Link and Golden Comet the Same?
Hatcheries and farmers use these names interchangeably, which can create confusion if you do not know which chickens were used in the cross-breed.
So, yes, the Golden Sex Link and Golden Comet can mean the same animal only if both hybrids are a result of a cross-breed between two similar chickens.
Meaning a Golden Sex Link is the same as a Golden Comet if both were made from the cross-breed of a Rhode Island Red male and a White Plymouth Rock female.
However, if the two hybrids do not descend from the same two ancestors, then they cannot be considered the same, even though they may look alike, with males having a golden-red color and females a white to cream color.
Can Golden Sex Link Chickens Be Kept in Confined Spaces?
Golden Sex Link chickens adapt well to both free-range and confined environments. So yes, they can be kept in smaller spaces, less than 4 square feet/one chicken.
However, providing them with adequate space, ventilation, and cleanliness is important to ensure their well-being.
Conclusion
With their exceptional egg-laying abilities, ease of differentiating between the sexes, attractive appearance, and amiable temperament, Golden Sex Links offer a winning combination for chicken enthusiasts.
Whether you’re seeking a reliable source of fresh eggs or simply want the joy of keeping these beautiful birds in your backyard, these hybrids are sure to impress.
Remember to provide them with the care and attention they need to thrive. From a balanced diet to regular health checks, ensuring their well-being will reward you with a productive and charming flock.
