Get into breeding

[Denalynne]

If I wanted to get into showing and breeding Brahmas. What is the best way to start. I want to make sure I learn everything I need to know and buy the best chicks. Any advice would be appreciated.

 

[Penpal]

Read everything you can. Go to poultry shows. You'll be able to see the SOP (standard of perfection). You'll be able to talk to breeders as well as buy stock.

 

[AprilWC]

Study the breed standard and visit poultry shows if you can. Get an eye for what is desirable and what isn't. Join the breed club. Network with people and find a mentor or two.

Don't buy the first birds you see. It's more economical to start with hatching eggs or chicks. You may end up with a bird that might not have been sold if it had been raised by the breeder. Starting with a juvenile or mature pair/trio will allow you to see exactly what you have but will cost significantly more. There are pros and cons to both.

Don't cull your chicks too soon. Brahmas are slow growing. I didn't start culling my first Jersey Giants until 1 year old and it's a good thing I waited. The ones I wanted to cull at 6 months turned into my best ones at 12 months.