Laney, I , too hope to begin breeding Heritage Delawares next spring. I have oh so much to learn. I did read somewhere, that one of the last things to breed for is the comb perfection. I don't know if that is in all breeds, or in the breed I was reading about. I am guessing there may be a methodical way of breeding, some sort of "order," to go by ??
I am just learning about line breeding, and spiral breeding, etc. What are the thoughts of the posters here, on that topic, with the Delawares? I understand many believe a closed flock to be best, while others dispute that, believing they need, "new blood," to reach their ultimate goal of perfection.
I have yet to order a SOP book, and do need to do that soon, so I can "study," before spring! Is this book updated often? I see on
Amazon that the most current is a 2001 edition?? I assume, for example, if the Black Copper Marans make it in 2010, there would be another addition to add to the book. ?
I really love the heritage poultry, and hope to make an impact sometime in the future. I think when there is such a seriously low population of a breed, people *should* practically give away eggs and chicks, to encourage an increase in the population. It is heartbreaking that some do just the opposite, and charge a fortune to "entice," your interest. I certainly will not be, "in it for the money!" OTOH, I DO understand the expense that goes hand in hand with breeding. Oh, I dunno.... just sayin' ....
I am really enjoying the pictures and the information of this thread, and I thank all the contributors.