Need Show Tips :)

[5Chickens]

I am hoping to show some of my chickens at a show in January. I was hoping that anyone could give me some tips?

Black Copper Marans Cockerel (Dewey)
-He is about 3 months old right now. In Jan. he will be about 8 months old. What age is a cockerel normally entered in a show? Is 8 months ok? Any tips on getting him in his best condition for the show?

Barred Rock Hen (Bonnie)
-She is over a year old right now. Her feathers are a bit not so pretty right now because of the other rooster(he is sold now). Will her feathers be in a normal condition by January?

Naked Neck Hens (Layla and Eunice)
-Same as Bonnie, they are just over a year old ad there feathers are a bit raggedy. Will their feathers be in a normal condition by January?

Black Australorp Pullets ( Not named as of right now)
-They are almost 2 months old right now. So around 7 months old when the show comes. Is this an okay age to show them at?

American Game Pullet (Hawk)
-She is 5 months old right now. She is in perfect condition right now. Any tips on keeping her that way?

If you have any tips on showing? This is going to be a first time.

And if anyone could help me on what class they would go in that would be great!

Thanks!

 

[Pathfinders]

1) Yes, you can enter a cockerel in a show at 8 months, should be fine.

2) Your hen will have good feather condition if she molts between now and the show. New feathers take six to eight weeks to grow in.

3) Seven months is a bit young to show, but better with pullets than cockerels, so you'll probably be ok. Make sure their combs and wattles have pinked up, or don't bother taking them.

4) To keep your Game bird in top condition, you might wish to pen her by herself, or with one other female companion. Keep her away from males who might pull feathers off while breeding her.

I've written some articles about how to show, and prepare for a show, that might be of help to you. See them here:

How to Show Your Chickens

http://www.pathfindersfarm.com/Showing.html

How to wash a chicken:

http://www.ehow.com/how_4512807_wash-a-chicken.html

Conditioning & Prepping for Shows

http://www.pathfindersfarm.com/Prepping.html

Hope these help!

Best,