Cochins for 4H shows

[Nikki816]

My son will be old enough to show in 4H next summer (our Fair is in June) and he is interested in showing Cochins. We have LF cochins Currently but they are from Ideal Hatchery and I don't think they will be competative (or even Large enough to show). We are near Columbus, OH and hoping to learn more about what to look for (pictures are really helpful). We are also looking for some show quality stock and tips on care before shows. He is wanting to start with Bantams since they are easier for him to carry. Prefer to pick up in person within 1 hour +/- from Circleville or my parents live in the Cambridge area and I can pick up there most weekends.

 

[nebulathechicken]

Hello, it’s super exciting that your son is getting into showing birds!!! I personally showed Large fowl chochins in 4h and I have a few tricks up my sleeve. Although hatchery birds are not the best quality they will work well enough in 4h breed judging. They might not make it to the top marks but they all have to get either 1st 2nd or 3rd. As 4h policy goes. To be honest, one of my best show birds was from a feed store, and the judges were always amazed by her. Here are some tips for preparing chochins for show. 1-Their feet are very very important. A few weeks before the show soak the chochins feet in warm water to soften the poop. Then slowly remove all of it. After this you will need to cut away any out of place feathers. Then you will trim the nails. If needed, and after all of this I apply a thin layer of Vaseline. On the day of the show I use baby oil on the combs and feet to help them shine, but be careful to not get any in their eyes. To help their plumage look better give birds sunflower seeds (weeks in advance). The seeds oils will help the birds feathers shine. On show day I use a silk cloth to wipe down my birds (also makes for shiny feathers) and I do I final check for dirty feet and plumage. Washing the bird is the hardest especially with chochins. I like to spray them down and apply some baby shampoo (small quantities) and then wash it off gently. It’s a long process. If he is doing Showmanship bantams are definitely the best to start of with. For standard of perfections and what to look for it gets complicated. APA has a good list of perfections for every chicken breed well APA approved breed. And a lot of judges have certain things they look for. I always just showed a bird and learned the perfections based on what the judge said. Good luck finding birds. And helping your son show chickens!

 

[Amer]

Well, you are fortunate enough to live right by the largest poultry show in the nation... the Ohio National.
I recommend you go out and experience for yourself what an APA show looks like.
Order the Standard of Perfection.
Join the Cochins International club. https://www.cochinsint.com
They have a breeders directory that you can receive as a member, and can provide guidance.

 

[alexisrambles]

Regardless of whether they're really show quality or not, I recommend you go in to get a handle on what it's like! It can be overwhelming at first.