Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
behaved bird; they seek a bird that fits the breed standard to a
T
. The choice of best bird
to show often comes down to things as seemingly minor as the number and location of
points on a comb, and the proper distribution of feather patterns such as spots, speckles,
stripes, or stipples.
Showing for Young Beginners
Many raisers begin exhibiting their birds as part of their participation in 4-H or FFA
clubs. Judges for shows sponsored by these groups choose winners based on two criter-
ia: first, they consider the breeder's participation in and knowledge of the bird's produc-
tion and rearing needs; second, they measure the quality of the bird on its own merits.
Participation in a 4-H or FFA show should be a learning experience. During the
months when the exhibitor is raising the bird, he or she gains knowledge about the
breed's traits and how to provide feed, care, and daily maintenance. Raisers then do their
best to show the judge what they've learned about the bird. An engaged judge gives
them positive feedback about what they've accomplished, pointers about aspects of rais-
ing, and sometimes tips for selecting a different bird to show in the future.
The best amateur shows hire a judge who will take time with 4-H and FFA exhibitors
to tell them how they can improve upon the project for future years. 4-H shows are
judged very differently across the country, however, and in some cases are judged to the
APA standards, rather than as a growing, learning experience for the exhibitor. Be sure
to make inquiries into the show that piques your interest to have a better understanding
of what is expected of you.
Challenges for the 4-H and FFA Exhibitor
When first starting out on your poultry-showing project, seek out a seminar, workshop,
or 4-H function, put on by the county councils of the Cooperative Extension Service and
area 4-H clubs. These workshops offer insight into proper 4-H strategies and area ex-
pectations for how to exhibit your poultry. Don't feel you need to limit your exhibition
experience to chickens. Consider waterfowl, turkeys, and even game birds. Some 4-H
poultry shows encourage entrance of many species of poultry.
Show Stock
You don't need to spend a great deal of money and buy prime exhibition stock for your
first or second show experience. When you're just learning the exhibition routine, it may
make sense to get economical hatchery-run chickens. Learn a few raising tricks before
you invest large sums of money in professional-breeder-quality stock. Show-bred chicks
will be almost two to three times the cost of commercial-grade chicks. Once you've es-
tablished yourself and know what's needed to nurture your chickens to the proper size in
