Thank you very much Mr. Leonard for clearing that up. I have limited experience showing (my fifth show will be the Caldwell, ID show at the beginning of Nov), but had not seen a silkie DQ'd for horns. I've been told so many things by so many people (some people had said to pull all foot feathers on the fourth and fifth toes, however a judge came on a thread on here and said not to... and the info to pull came from a fellow ASBC member and long time exhibitor). I also know different judges have different personal preferences. Mr. Kutch doesn't like the crests overly large and told me he likes to see the eyes of the bird. I learn something from each judge I show under, and I learn even more when I am able to clerk.
To those who are considering exhibiting and have not yet, do consider joining the APA and the ABA and showing in some local shows. Even though your bird may not win, you be presented with many opportunities to learn that will help guide you in plans for future breeding, acquisition of stock to compliment your current birds, etc.
Also, if you are exhibiting silkies, the ASBC is a wonderful resource full of helpful people. I know that Amy Jo Piehl, also on BYC, is a member, as is Sundown Waterfowl, myself, and many top breeders of silkies.
If you have questions about the breed club, I will do my best to put you into contact with someone that can help you if I don't know the answer.
Thanks!
Jennifer
