Silkie breeding, genetics & showing

[Adoravachick]

The only thing is, as far as the SOP is concerned, evidence of trimmed feathers is "Faking", which is a DQ. Obviously if the judge can't tell then you won't be DQ'd, but it's still technically "faking" (p. 30 of the SOP). Rather than trim those feathers, what about using hair tape like others do and tape the crests up so the birds can see? That way, when it's time to show, you can remove the tape and and it won't be a problem.

I am with you, though, it's something I dislike about the breed and the large crests -- I think a bird deserves to see what's going on in the world around it.

I have been tempted to trim my birds crest so they can see, but I want to be able to show them so I havent done anything. I will be using the hair gel or the hair tape on Isabel and Hallie. Thank you for covering this topic.

 

[Adoravachick]

Look at those wings when they are folded. If the primaries fold outside the secondaries; it is a slipped wing. That's why the secondaries are curling. The primaries are rubbing the secondaries upward. I've tried to correct this in Silkies by taping, as I think you have, to no avail. You have to breed it out. Breeding birds, especially Silkies ,can be a case of"Chicken, or feathers" from year to year.

I have a young roo that has a very obvious slipped wing. He is so gorgeous everywhere else, is there nothing I can do?

 

[littlecritters]

The only thing is, as far as the SOP is concerned, evidence of trimmed feathers is "Faking", which is a DQ. Obviously if the judge can't tell then you won't be DQ'd, but it's still technically "faking" (p. 30 of the SOP). Rather than trim those feathers, what about using hair tape like others do and tape the crests up so the birds can see? That way, when it's time to show, you can remove the tape and and it won't be a problem.

I am with you, though, it's something I dislike about the breed and the large crests -- I think a bird deserves to see what's going on in the world around it.

I didn't even realize hair tape was available. Thnak you for mentioning this. I'll try to find some this week.

 

[Denise661]

baby nail scissors.

Sit them in your lap, body held between your legs.  One hand holds head and positions it, the other uses the scissors to gently snip away feathers blocking vision.  When you think you are done, hold the bird at eye level and see if you can see eyes.  If not, trim a bit more.

Also, so you know the proper way to hold a chicken?  Hand faceup under their breast, spread your fingers apart and slide them around the legs.  Tighten your hand, and you should have a good grasp on the bird.  Put the other hand on top of their wings and the bird should feel secure and not flap about.

baby clippers ,Ha I would of never guessed. I know how to hold but had no idea on trimming the hair.
Thank you

 

[Adoravachick]

There is a show close by very soon, and I was thinking of taking 2 or 3 of my birds. I have NEVER gone to a show before, what do I need, once we arrive? Will the crates for showing be provided?

 

[littlecritters]

There is a show close by very soon, and I was thinking of taking 2 or 3 of my birds.  I have NEVER gone to a show before, what do I need, once we arrive? Will the crates for showing be provided?

Here is a nice article for show day, what to bring etc ---> http://www.poultryshowcentral.com/grooming-for-show.html

Can you please share some info on the show? Is there a show secretary or someone I could contact? Thanks!

 

[Adoravachick]

Here is a nice article for show day, what to bring etc ---> http://www.poultryshowcentral.com/grooming-for-show.html
Can you please share some info on the show? Is there a show secretary or someone I could contact? Thanks!

Here is the link. You can contact Jamie with any questions, her info is at the bottom of the page. http://enyspassc.com/index.php

 

[Adoravachick]

Here is a nice article for show day, what to bring etc ---> http://www.poultryshowcentral.com/grooming-for-show.html
Can you please share some info on the show? Is there a show secretary or someone I could contact? Thanks!

Great website! thanks.

 

[peepblessed]

How in the world can you trim around the face/eyes?
I can't get them to stay still to check there comb.
I'm just scared I will poke the eye out.

I use blunt baby nail scissors.

 

[peepblessed]

I did try hair gel a few months ago. It didn't work but I bought it at the dollar store so maybe you get what you pay for.