What makes a show bird?

[Steergirl]

I was wondering how the birds are judged. Normally I show steers and heifers but I am really considering showing Silkies! Ok, so are they judged on general livestock things like:
Depth
Breed Standard
Hair/Feather Coat
Size
Soundness (Is there such a thing in birds?)
Finish
Any help would be great!

 

[Illia]

Depends if you're showing in a small fair type thing or an actual APA sanctioned, serious show. A small fair, I have no clue. . . Some people allow mutts and they win "grand prize" or whatever.

An APA sanctioned show - They judge by the condition of the bird and also by the Standard of Perfection for the breed. (and color)

 

[Steergirl]

I'm pretty impatient... so bump

 

[gamebirdsonly]

Quote:
+1 We have APA judge at our fair so no mutts ever have gotten the trophy or grand prize.

 

[Sonoran Silkies]

What makes a show bird? Well, it needs to meet the standard, at the very least for type, preferably for variety as well. Conditioning is important, too.

I was asst. super. for our county fair last week. Sure wish there was a BIG award for condition--far too many birds were so far out of condition it was sad. One of the best conditioned birds was not a great example of the breed, but was a HUGE improvement over many that did.