show broilers

[billygoat]

we are new to show broilers-4-H show in 3 weeks--what is the best way to transport them, without bruising them, do they need baths like other birds, how do we pick the best birds, is biggest better? thanks for any information or advice!:-|

[Patrick]

See the thread on market turkeys. Just about everything applies to the broilers too, including the lack of any universally accepted standard by which to impartially compare them in these 4h shows. You can and should wash them. Transport them ideally in single carriers, or use dividers so that they cannot come in contact with each other. Use NO wire of any kind. Even wire fronted carriers may destroy their feather condition. A simple cardboard box would be better.

[seymojo536]

I am assuming you will be showing a pen of 3 or 4 birds. There may be a weight limit on the pen and on each bird. Make sure you are just under this limit.

For broilers, the judge is looking for the best matched set of birds. That means that if you were to blindfold him he couldn't tell the individuals apart. You want a brick for the breast. Long and wide to the tip of the keel. It is more important for the all the birds to be matched than to have two perfect birds and one runt.

Be very careful in transporting them. Use a cat carrier or a box. Any bruising on the wings will knock you out of the running. As will any blisters or buttons on the breast. Small sores on the feet don't count for much.

If you birds do not have their breast feathers yet(two rows running along the keel). Dunk them in a tub of cold water and leave them in the sun to dry before putting them inside.

Yes you should give them a bath. One about a week before the show and a second the day before. Be prepared to have to wash them again, darn things just seem to be unable to stay out of the muck.