Advice Needed On Show Birds

[Howard1956]

My grandson is wanting to show chickens for 4-H. I'm just a back-yard chicken enthusiast with some Rocks, Delawares and Orpingtons. What breed is good for a kid going in for the first time, and where would someone recommend getting show quality chicks?

Thank you in advance for a reply.

 

[QueenMisha]

For a kid you want something small (usually bantam) and relatively docile. Silkies and Old English Games are popular. I've also found Seramas, bantam Cochins, Japanese Bantams, Ko Shamo, and Booted Bantams to have excellent personalities. Seramas in particular are some of the most docile birds I've ever handled, although they are a rare breed and show quality Seramas can be pricey. Ko Shamo are also a lot of fun, if only because they look so strange.

For show quality birds, you need to go to a breeder - hatcheries just won't cut it. Find someone who's in your area, or find someone willing to ship birds. But remember that driving is better than shipping; even if you have to drive a few hours to get nice birds, it's a lot easier on them than shipping.