Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
While this is considered a defective comb and a disqualification in most cases, several
breeds require this comb, the most common being the Penedescenca. Mating two birds
of this comb type often produces wide and varied results that leave the backyard breeder
with a lifetime of breeding projects because off types can and do occur.
Breeding and selection for proper comb type is an excellent project to tackle and a
great way to learn about genetics.
Other Tricky Traits
Another trait that is fairly difficult to maintain is the proper stance of Runner ducks,
which walk almost perpendicular to the ground. Because the proper stance makes breed-
ing more difficult, thus lowering fertility rates, it's very easy to lose this trait. Breeders
hoping for a productive hatch are tempted to select breeding pairs with a slight tilt to
their bodies. When breeders surrender to this temptation, the result is a larger batch of
ducklings with improper body type. Gradually you lose the standard body conformation
entirely.
Selection
Traits to select for are wide and varied but should always include those identified in the
established APA breed standard if possible. If the standard is not available to you, make
every effort to read up on what is printed about the breed and try to stay close to those
guidelines. Purists say that if the APA does not recognize it, then it is not a breed. But
politics aside, if a particular bird type has been around for a stretch of time and breeds
true, you have established traits to consider and a place to start.
Never select for breeding any birds with the following traits:
Growth habits inconsistent with type
Crooked toes
THE BLUE BIRD BLUES
The genetic occurrence in poultry that causes the most confusion is the inheritance
of the color blue. Blue fowl — chickens, ducks, and turkeys — are some of the most
highly sought-after poultry in the world. Proper shades are tough to maintain and
understanding all that is involved in doing so can be overwhelming. Blue color in
poultry is said to be “incompletely dominant” and therefore will not breed true. Some
discussion has arisen that it may be polygenic.
