Delaware Gang @ 5 Weeks Old (newest Pics #96/ 9 Wks Old)

[init4eggs]

Thanks that is helpful. Most of my boys seem to have excessive amount of barring down their back and they are only weeks old. I know the standard says the back should be white, but is it possible that white feather will come in later to cover those up?

 

[speckledhen]

That is "smut" and will clear out as they develop. In fact, it's really a good thing, having all that color early on. Dels change drastically as they grow and get their mature plumage.

 

[walkswithdog]

I'm glad Ellie is making it. Tough lil gal. Go GIRL! Your boys are a better group than those I had. Even those you don't pick will help out here.

I love your boys' combs in general better than what I had here, though you know what, these weren't down around hatchery standards, so the lady who is working on her flock has made some progress.

Seriousbill - that is a deeply handsome pair you have their. Of course you should both post many more pictures.

 

[Raven1]

I have some Hatchery Dels am I doomed to have aggressive birds?

 

[speckledhen]

Quote:
No, of course not. I do find their temperament can be a bit more unpredictable than the ones from the real breeders, but there are many with sweet Dels here on BYC. Mine from hatchery parents were just the worst of the worst as far as temperament. The combination of good temperament and great body type and markings are what are elusive in hatchery stock.

 

[Raven1]

Good to hear I just will not keep any birds that want to be hateful I love your birds and Bills

 

[speckledhen]

Thank you! At this point, I can't take any credit except for their health since hatch, but maybe one day someone will say that I'm one of the go-to breeders of quality Delawares.

 

[Raven1]

Well if these turn out bad I will start over with quality stock and may be they will be from you

I love the "Heritage" quality to many hybrids not enough all purpose

 

[init4eggs]

I have some Hatchery Dels am I doomed to have aggressive birds?

Raven, I was glad you asked the question about the hatchery bird as I too have hatchery birds and had a similar concern. Mine don't seem to aggressive now but they seem sort of nervous. I am glad to hear there is still hope for hatchery bird, if mine do turn aggressive it will help justify an incubator.

speckledhen, Thanks for your insight. I am looking forward to see your final choice(s).​

 

[seriousbill]

Quote:
Thanks very much.

The male is my primary breeding male. The female is not marked as well as I'd like, but has some qualities I do like, such as decent body type and pretty good black and lacing in her tail.

I have been breeding Delawares for a few years now, but I haven't got my birds where I want them yet, so I don't post a lot of pictures. When I get them where I want them, I'll be more inclined to post pics. They are only a work in progress at the moment.