Hatchery Breed - Define

[Blackberry18]

Hey, I seen this term multiple times on the "What Breed is This?" forum, and just wanted to double-check the meaning. (Example: Hatchery Rhode Island Reds). I'm thinking that it is different pure breeds of poultry that were slightly altered in hatchery breeding. So, is it a type of strain?

 

[Michael OShay]

The term "hatchery quality" or "hatchery grade" refers to a particular breed that carries the identifying characteristics of that breed (feather, skin, and leg color; comb type; body type, etc.) but falls short of the standard of perfection as set forth by the poultry governing bodies such as the APA. For example, a hatchery grade Rhode Island Red would have the red feathering, yellow skin, yellow legs, and single comb common to all Rhode Island Reds, but it might lack the deep body, or rich mahogany red coloring called for by the APA standard. As a result, depending on how serious the flaws were, it would either have points deducted or be disqualified from contention in a poultry show.

 

[Blackberry18]

The term "hatchery quality" or "hatchery grade" refers to a particular breed that carries the identifying characteristics of that breed (feather, skin, and leg color; comb type; body type, etc.) but falls short of the standard of perfection as set forth by the poultry governing bodies such as the APA. For example, a hatchery grade Rhode Island Red would have the red feathering, yellow skin, yellow legs, and single comb common to all Rhode Island Reds, but it might lack the deep body, or rich mahogany red coloring called for by the APA standard. As a result, depending on how serious the flaws were, it would either have points deducted or be disqualified from contention in a poultry show.

All right, thank you! Now I know what one of my friends meant when she said that if was going to show Rhode Island Reds, I should buy them from a breeder rather than a hatchery. I understand now, thanks!

 

[Michael OShay]

All right, thank you! Now I know what one of my friends meant when she said that if was going to show Rhode Island Reds, I should buy them from a breeder rather than a hatchery. I understand now, thanks!

You're welcome; and your friend is correct. )