What is a good starting chicken for 4-H fancy showing?

[tandersphoenix]

I think you made a good decision in getting black to start with. Solid colors are easier to show just starting off. Well even the big breeders still win a lot with solid black or white. Need to keep the hens separate from roosters or they will not show. I have judged 4-H poultry shows for nearly 20 years now and I hate to see birds come in with feathers all gone because no one taught them how to condition for show.

 

[ChickGirl4Life]

Why were their feathers gone?

 

[tandersphoenix]

The main 2 things that stand out really fast are #1 feathers on their back and behind their head are gone from running roosters with hens. And #2 from being free ranged and terribly sun faded. Those are the big ones to me that stand out at first glance.

 

[ChickGirl4Life]

Well I don't have to worry about roosters...And would I have to watch for sun fadedness because I'm getting a black chicken right?

 

[HappyChickenLover]

Kind of depends on where you live, and look at what other 4-H members want to show. Also read up on the chicken differnt ones might wfit your style. I like oegb, my wife likes D'anvers

Black is a good color, it is very true and easy to breed. Good color to start with, personly I like fancy colors like crele.

 

[Celtic Hill]

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Are you buying straight run or pullets? I would suggest that you start with bantams.

 

[ChickGirl4Life]

I'm getting pullets but the Cochin is standand.

 

[Celtic Hill]

Personally this is what i would do. Before getting any birds go to a poultry show and look at all the different breeds and pick a few you like. Normally there are sales that go on at the shows and maybe you will find a pair! I would go with bantam because showmanship with large fowl...is well interesting! lol.

 

[ChickGirl4Life]

I looked through a Murray McMurray catalog a few times and I chose a Cochin but I did temperment research and stuff.