As your interest and affection for your chickens grows, you
will want to share them with the world. Perhaps your kids want a project for
4-H or FFA. It’s time to take the next step and exhibit them at a poultry show.
If you haven’t been to a poultry show yet, find one and go.
Poultry Show Central keeps a comprehensive list of shows around the country.
You’ll see chickens you never imagined and have the chance to talk to their
breeders. Vendors have all kinds of chicken paraphernalia for sale. You won’t
feel like the only person who understands how wonderful chickens are. Radiostation KCRW gives you the sounds of a poultry show in its report on the 2013
Ventura Bash at the Beach Poultry Show.
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| Judge Bill Patterson examines a Cochin's wing. |
Participation
Shows are organized by clubs and other associations, so
being a member is the first step. The American Poultry Association and the American Bantam Association certify
poultry judges, so they are involved in overseeing any show at which poultry
are judged by certified judges. APA
judge Bill Patterson examines a Cochin’s wing at the 2010 Sea Side Feather
Fanciers’ seventh annual Bash at the Beach.
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| Showing your chickens is a great achievement. |
APA certification assures that the judge has met its
standards. Certified judges are required to qualify for points toward its
Master, Grandmaster and other awards.
Specialty breed clubs generally hold their own ‘meets’ at
poultry shows. They award their own separate prizes.
Ribbons, plaques and prizes are awarded, such as Michael Tuyls’
Chantecler Grand Champion Bantam and Reserve Show Champion White Chantecler
bantam cock. Money prizes are nominal, but it’s gratifying to get recognition
among your peers for your achievements.
Young people in FFA and 4-H have additional events, such as
this Showmanship event at the Golden State Poultry Show. The Quiz Bowl at a
local show gives students an opportunity to learn to think on their feet.
Elimination competitions lead to national events that offer scholarships and
other substantial recognition.
Showmanship classes place students in a one-to-one
examination with the judge. The judge interviews the young poultry owner on
poultry knowledge and ability to handle his or her bird. It gives young
enthusiasts an arena in which to show off their best birds and shine.
Get all the relevant paperwork assembled and submitted
before the deadline. Make sure your entries are recorded and you will be
permitted to show. Some shows allow walk-ins, but many require
pre-registration.
Show etiquette
Be on time. With many exhibitors bringing multiple birds to
a show, cooping in is hectic under the best conditions. Be courteous to your
fellow exhibitors. Be patient.
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| Golden Laced Hamburg |
Informational cards describing your birds can be helpful in
explaining the history and background of your breed in general and your birds
in particular. Shows are an excellent opportunity to raise awareness of
poultry.
Never touch another person’s bird. If you see a situation
that concerns you, find the owner and inform him. Touching birds has overtones
of interfering with the competition by breaking feathers or other nefarious
activity.
Feed and water according to show advice. Some breeds, like
Old English Games, do not show well with a full crop. If water has been
temporarily removed, reassure concerned members of the public that the chickens
are not being deprived and will soon have free access to water again.
Participate in your events and support your fellow
exhibitors. A responsive audience is rewarding to exhibitors who have taken
trouble to put their best birds forward. Classes like Showmanship benefit from
an audience, because part of the challenge is to be able to think under
pressure. Be respectful. Be appreciative.
Do not interrupt the judge or attempt to converse with him
or her in any way. This smacks of attempts to influence the judging. Stay away
from the judging area until judging is complete.
Stay until all prizes have been awarded. Give everyone the
courtesy of admiration during their time in the winners’ circle.
Be a gracious winner. Kind words of fellowship and
encouragement are always welcome.
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