Picking Show Quality Chicks

[MadisonOde]

Hey all,
I'm picking up three more silver laced wyandotte chicks tomorrow. They come from very good stock. I know there is really no such thing as a show quality chick, but are there any tips to try and pick the ones that might turn out closer to show quality? I don't think there are since they're day olds, but any help will be appreciated . Thanks!

 

[NJClucker]

Like with any bird look for good vigor and the most active chicks.

After that try to pick the largest chicks and avoid runts.

 

[lena_]

Hey all,
I'm picking up three more silver laced wyandotte chicks tomorrow. They come from very good stock. I know there is really no such thing as a show quality chick, but are there any tips to try and pick the ones that might turn out closer to show quality? I don't think there are since they're day olds, but any help will be appreciated . Thanks!

You can discern certain qualities from very young chicks, but a birds true show potential doesn't become visible until around the 6 month mark, or at least that's when I pick my breeders.
For example, clearly defined, breed standard combs, and unmarked yellow legs are ideal. Make sure there are no horns or discolouration on the comb or legs.
I used to breed wyandottes and the ones with clear, well defined markings tended to feather up more nicely then chicks with any mottling.
Choose large, active chicks, as the larger ones usually grow into larger, more rounded birds.
Good luck choosing, and congrats on the new babies!

 

[Egghead_Jr]

Big round heads.