Crest genetics

[Linda Pluschke]

Does anyone know why breeding crested to crested is problematic in some breeds and not others? For instant in Cream legbars it seems standard to breed two crested birds without resulting in problems, but in Swedish flower hens, it can result in a double crest, with vaulted skull, nervous temperment and smaller weight. This is what I've been told by breeders. Thanks for any help.

 

[The Kooky Kiwi]

In the Araucana we have here it is acceptable to breed crested to crested (it doesn't automatically create a fatal syndrome) although you do need to be aware of the effects due to "variable" expression of the cresting.

In a bird that has an excessive crest (which could be more prevalent if the bird has received a double dose of the Cr gene?) this can result in cranial changes - Vaulted skulls and developmental faults as a result skull deformities are known problems yes.

 

[Amer]

Some birds with more excessive crests have vaulted skulls, but that will not necessarily be fatal or detrimental to the bird, however, it will require trimming or pulling back the crest.