Show folks need advise please

[chickchickchiky]

Ok my kids joined 4-h this year for the first time and i got into chickens this year as well. My kids would like to show some of my chickens but these are hatchery stock so i am pretty sure they won't do great for them but i have ordered show chicks for spring and next year should be better i need some impute on the birds i am thinking about taking for them this year and if they would be horrible or ok to show please. I am thinking my supposed Jersey giants look the best out of what i have they have yellow under the feet and nice combs and great feathering just not sure on the size they are not huge but are young. I know they may lack on the SOP but do you think it would be embarrassing for my kids to show these? I don't think they are horrible for hatchery stock but who knows.

 

[muddyhorse]

Go ahead and show them. show people are very friendly And helpful . Nobody will embarrass you only help and encourage you

 

[4hchickmama]

In a 4H juniors show, it will be fine. There will be other kids there with hatchery birds. Keep them healthy and looking good and it will be fine. They will also learn a lot in the process. Jersey Giants are not a breed I know the SOP of really well, but it sounds like you are aware that they might not win first place. Ask your poultry leader what they think.

 

[chickchickchiky]

I hope so cause i have horses and i have never shown due to snobby people in those circles i am just praying it's not the same with chickens etc... My kids are just starting and i would hate to have them shot down first try ya know.

 

[fiveladybugs]

My kids have been showing for the last few years & even won last year with my TSC white leghorn hens & mallards. It's a good starting point & they will learn a lot. The judges are usually very helpful & have certainly taught my 14 yr old a lot. It also depends on how much competition that have in that class as well

Good luck!

 

[chickchickchiky]

Thanks all i feel better about it now. I would love for it to be a great learning experience for them. We are working on our silkies and Ameraucana's for next year but for now these will have to do.

 

[muddyhorse]

Showing should be a fun learning experience. At our fist apa show my daughter was given birds to improve our flock. Most people are very welcoming to new jrs.
Make sure the kids are handling the birds frequently, practice taking them in and out of the cages. Judges don't like birds that freak when you stock your hand in the cages.
Bathe the birds 3 days before the show . I use a dog flea shAmpoo, dawn works good too. I use a little vinegar in the rinse water to make sure there isn't any soap left on the bird.
The day of the show I use a glycerin spray on the feathers for shine. I put vet rx on the comb and wattles makes them bright red. Some people use petroleum jelly. Make sure there is no pop on the bird feet.
Most of all have fun

 

[chickchickchiky]

question on the bathing they are both black and have very shinny feathers do i still need to bath them? I know i will have to clean the feet and combs waddles and that but i am afraid i will mess up the feathers that look so cool and green sheened right now i would hate mess them up lol