Poultry Show 101
Basic Showroom Courtesy
The unwritten rules of showing poultry:
1. Knowing and following proper etiquette when attending or entering a poultry show creates a pleasurable experience for all involved: the show committee, the judges, the other exhibitors, visitors and, of course, you.
2. Most of these unwritten“ rules” are really a matter of common sense and none of them are a matter of“ life or death.” These suggestions will make you feel like a seasoned exhibitor and not so much like a rookie.
3. Fill out your entry form correctly, and always make a copy for yourself. Many shows have different forms that they use for their show. If you have questions( unsure of your breed / variety), reach out to the show staff and ask, this will avoid any confusion when you arrive at check-in.
You may find some of the same varieties appearing in several breeds. For example, there are Buff Brahmas, Buff Cochins, Buff Orpingtons, Buff Silkies and a few other breeds with buff varieties. The Standard of Perfection will list the characteristics of each variety.
Poultry shows are set up first by a Class. Then each class is broken down by the breeds that are a part of that class. Each variety of the breed is in one area and organized by sex and age of the bird( cocks, cockerels, hens and pullets). Knowing this framework
4. Be aware of when check-in is for the show. Some allow you to begin cooping in on Friday evening, while others may not allow cooping in until Saturday morning. Most shows have a time when judging begins. Normally, that is around 9:00 a. m., but be sure to check the catalog for the timing of judging so your birds are in the cages in time for judging.
5. Be aware when judging has begun, if there is a judge in the aisle you wish to walk down, be sure the judge is not judging in that aisle. Judges are happy to answer questions after the judging has been completed, but you should refrain from trying to ask them questions during judging.
6. Be aware of when you are allowed to remove your birds to head home. We all like to get on the road early and get home but it is courteous to hang around for the awards announcements. Congratulating others on their win is important as we are all hobbyists in this and being a good sport should be considered as in any competition.
will give you an understanding of poultry shows and how they are organized.
About the Author
Norma Padgett is president of the American Poultry Association and has been involved with poultry for 35 years. www. Organicfeeds. com
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