Nankin Discussion Thread - Page 23

Bird #1

Bird #2

Bird #3

Bird #4

Bird # 5

Bird # 6

I have a trio of Nankins from a home breeder, was hoping to have the pullets judged this spring.  The roo has a RV in a APA approved show and a Best of Breed and Reserve best of the Barn in a 4h show.  It seems a shame to let his genetics go to waste. 

I was wondering if you all might have an opinion as to whether incubating or using a broody is the better way to hatch eggs for Nankins?   I have information that they have a high mortality rate in the egg.  Is this true?

Any education would be appreciated. (fourth year chicken rancher) 

Beautiful birds Micki

Boy, ?, Boy, Girl x3

Thank you Daughter of Eve!  I was beginning to wonder where everyone went. I too am new to Nankins, so can't help you with info on hatchability.  Sorry.  I believe your assessment of sexes of my birds are very close.  I will post more pics soon.  Birds 1 and 2 are definitely male.  Bird 3 still not sure yet, but leaning towards male.  Bird 4 female.  Bird 5, leaning towards male, bird 6, also possibly male.  I need some hens!  My current assessment is based a lot on behavior.  I think the hormones are kicking in and I've had to separate birds into groups due to some terrible cockfighting!  NOT fun to watch!  They all have lots of space and we let them out into the living room for an hour or so a day so they aren't too bored. They are very intelligent birds and we try to keep their minds busy.  Other than the fighting they are very sweet birds.  They have decided that people make nice roosts :).  Since they are such a small group and are still indoors they are getting a lot of individual attention, just as my standard chicks did last spring.  However, once they go outside their lives will be more that of chickens and not pets, although still well cared for of course!  I plan to start showing this year and hope to learn a lot by doing so.

Love your roo!  Nice picture!

Micki going solely on tail color and posture to guess the sex of your birds.  Beware behavior and comb size can be deceiving.  I swore the two girls I got were boys during the 2-4th months.  The girls were fanning out and squaring off just like you would expect roos too.  Gesh, I had to wait for eggs to show up before I knew for sure. 

Even after going outside mine are still much more friendly than the other birds out there.  They don't seem to mind being handled and love shoulder rides.