Does cold weather affect Comb Size?

[lildinkem]

On another thread the question of comb size came up. While asking around about comb size for given breeds. A friend, who is a breeder, exhibitor and judge for APA events gave me an intriguing answer. He says the cold climate areas, if you let your birds free range alot, will inhibit a comb in growing. And on the other side of the spectrum, in hot temperate climates, in the same bird, the combs will grow larger. Unknowingly, I guess I am testing this theory by leaving some of the younger birds ( 6 to 8 month oles ) outside in the colder climate. I think this guy might be right. Alot of my cockerels have smaller combs then the older brothers who grew out in the fall. Have any of you guys noticed this? Sorta a neat theory.

 

[TimG]

I've got two cockerels that are about 15 weeks old and they seem to have smaller than normal combs, they are part of the first batch of winter chicks I have raised. I'm not ready to call this proof...

I think that chickens cool off by regulating blood flow to the comb in hot weather, so the connection to heat does not sound far fetched.

 

[Ryu]

Back when I raised rabbits, if I had a cross that was throwing long/big ears, I would have the litters in the winter. The ears were shorter. Not too far fetched that it could effect comb/wattle size.

Time for an experiment!

 

[lildinkem]

Quote:
VERY COOL!!
For the same age birds from different hatches about 2 months difference in age, I see about a 30% reduction in comb size for that age. I am glad I take pics while they grow out to compare.