I don't know Lynne, I am still working to get as much type as I can.
I took a few photos of my babies growing up now. I still am working on color, pattern and type but feel like I will never get as far as you guys.
I like the pattern on this pullets' chest. She isn't as typy as I would like but these kids are all around 8-9 wks old. I can wait to see if type develops.
Don't even think about it Lifesong, those eggs are MINE!! HaHa, not being mean, but I need those eggs way more than you do. I currently have no Roo to fertilize the few eggs I am getting. And I an not rich enough for a bidding war.
"Not all" my chicks that hatch have a great pattern. I'm still struggling (like others) to rid myself of the excess black in the cockerels hackles.
In that respect, I really try to cull very hard. The pullets are a little easier as many here locally just want "yard candy" & some sweet little layers for the backyard. I can always find homes for them. I guess my biggest problem is that I
my boys. I'm now to the point that I really have to brace myself to cull even harder as many of my boys are looking very good in pattern & color. I want to keep them ALL~!
I feel your pain, Lynne!
I have so many nice boys growing up I am trying to just close my eyes to pattern and go with type. Some are just beautiful but of course, they can change so much as they grow so I hope to stick to my guns, go with type and hope for the best.
DH says I am going to kick myself later when I see how some of these boys turn out but I just know type will be too hard to get back if I lose it. I have already forfeited type in one pen for color and am having to sell the chicks as they just don't have what I want. The roo is with Frizzles now since he will be good for pet birds and I plan to sell him with them.
Oh well, it is a live and learn situation.
I got some MF Cochin hatching eggs from a BYC member several weeks ago. They didn't do well in shipping. I only had two develop and only one hatch. This chick is pure yellow, and the little wing feathers that are just starting to come in are white. Does this sound like I got a MF chick or ? I had some MF D'Ucckles hatch in the same hatch and they are definitely a darker and more mottled look to their down. I am REALLY bummed about the entire situation, and am pretty sure I just want to give up on getting MF Cochins.
you will be dissapointed if you are comparing them to d'uccle. MFC is a developing variety and there are very few breeders that have been getting consistent color. Even Lynne, who's been breeding them for 5 years or so just admitted she's STILL getting a wide range of color. Your best bet is to buy started birds and go from there hatching every egg you get. It will be more expensive than buying hatching eggs... but, now you know why.
eta: even buying started birds.. .it is a project. They will need constant improvement. LOTS of hatching and buying/swapping birds from other breeders who may have what you need.