Volume 4, Number 1 Backyard February/March, 2009

PoultryDedicated to more and better small-flock poultry

Naked Neck Chickens Birds of a Different Feather Pg. 40

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145 Industrial Dr. Medford, WI 54451 www.backyardpoultrymag.com Poultry Publisher: Dave Belanger Editor: Elaine Belanger Managing Editor: Anne-marie Ida Editorial Assistant: Samantha Ingersoll From the Editor: Helpful Hints: Circulation and Fulfillment: Laura Celebrating the New Year Steer Clear of Drive-Thru Ching, Ellen Waichulis, Kate Tucker, (of Backyard Poultry that is)...... 6 Hatcheries: Ordering Chicks Kelly Weiler, Christine Barkley, Should be Fun...... 48 Gwendolyn Jones Bookstore: Ann Tom Letters to the Editor...... 8 Shows: Advertising Representatives SPPA News: A Summary of the 2008 APA (Rates on request) Research Your Breed: Where National, Ventura, California.... 52 to Find Those Details...... 14 Alicia Komanec Ohio National Youth Show...... 56 1-800-551-5691 Mites in Winter Poultry [email protected] How to Read a Coop Tag...... 58 Houses...... 15 Gary Christopherson 1-800-551-5691 Some Historic Breeds Are [email protected] Better Adapted to Cold Weather...... 16 Backyard Poultry (ISSN 1559-2251, USPS 023-374) is published bi-monthly at Coming Events...... 17 145 Industrial Dr., Medford, WI 54451. Periodicals postage paid at Medford, WI and additional mailing offices. Health: Fowl Language...... 18 The views presented here do not necessarily represent those of the editor The Answer Man...... 24 or publisher. All contents of this issue of Backyard Poultry are copyrighted by Countryside Publications, Ltd., 2009. All Gardening: rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or The Lazy Gardener’s Compost in part is prohibited except by permission Heap...... 30 of the publisher.

Editorial and Advertising Office: Recordkeeping: Backyard Poultry Preserve Your Experience & 145 Industrial Dr. Heritage in a Poultry Journal.... 36 Medford, WI 54451 This issue’s featured breeds are [email protected] the Nankin and the Naked Neck. Breeds: Nankin hens are prolific layers Subscriptions (U.S. funds): Nankin Bantams: Something of cream to light beige eggs. $21 per year; 2 years $35. Old, Something New...... 38 Nankins can have either a single Backyard Poultry Subscriptions comb or rose comb. 145 Industrial Dr. Naked Necks were developed Medford, WI 54451 Turkens: Birds of a Different from the desire for a smooth- 1-800-551-5691 Feather...... 40 skinned, dressed fowl, with bare POSTMASTER: areas that make plucking easier Around the World: and quicker. They are good layers Send address changes to: U.S. Poultry Enthusiasts Share Backyard Poultry Subscriptions of brown eggs and tolerate cold 145 Industrial Dr., Medford, WI 54451 Their Australian Poultry climates well. Tour Adventures...... 42 See pages 38 & 40. 4 Backyard Poultry On t h e c o v e r : www.Critter-Cages.com The February/March, 2009 cover Cages and Equipment for all your Critters. Visit our secure online store winner is a photo by Dana Ness, D.V.M., or give us a call Monday to Friday 10 am to 6 pm Pacific time, Satur- Vashon, Washington. This is her Naked days 10 - 4. 310 832-9981 Email [email protected] 53”x 24”x 21” High Neck hen, Sneetch. (According to the 51”x 43”x 47” High Premium Plus Backyard Hutch - 79.99* APA’s American Standard of Perfec- *plus shipping WA 01533 tion, the breed name is Naked Neck, but many of us also know them as Chick-N-Nest-12.99 WA 01492 Turkens.—Ed.) For more information *plus shipping on this unique breed, see page 40. To learn how to enter your poultry- related photos in the photo contest, see page 55.

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Hova-Bator Incubators from $53.99 (4 models) Wire Mesh Rolls (100 ft.) starting at $59.99* Backyard Poultry *plus shipping ...... 55 Critter-Cages.Com 305 N. Harbor Blvd. San Pedro, Ca. 90731 Photo Contest 40”x 60”x 36” High Phone 310 832-9981 Email [email protected] Youth: Gertrude McCluck: Chicken in Charge...... 60

Backyard Poultry Index 2008...... 62 Backyard Poultry Breeders Directory...... 65

Author Harvey Ussery shares his composting method; let the chickens to do the work. See page 30.

February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 5 Fr o m Th e Ed i t o r : Celebrating the New Year (of Backyard Poultry, that is )

El a i n e Be l a n g e r code) and e-mail address, if you have other than chickens, tell others. They Ed i t o r one. Your inquiry can often be answered may need that little nudge to “just do by phone in a more timely fashion than it” and your story might be the one that From the inception of Backyard Poultry any other method. convinces them. we have encouraged readers to be part of Send your stories, questions, con- If you have a poultry association, our poultry community by sharing their cerns and photos to Backyard Poultry, group or special event coming up, tell us knowledge, experiences and questions Attn: Elaine, 145 Industrial Dr., Medford, about your activities. with other readers. WI 54451 or e-mail [email protected]. Give some thought, right now, to what As we excitedly enter our fourth you have to share with others. If it comes year, we wanted to again welcome your Stories/Suggestions/Questions—We ask to your mind, chances are others will be participation, and offer clarification on you to share your experiences—those that thinking about it too. different sections of the magazine. have worked well—and those that didn’t Articles are not always used imme- We especially want to thank all of (maybe you can save someone else the ex- diately and may be kept for an issue that you—the poultry community—for your pense and disappointment of trying some fits the season/theme better. interest, enthusiasm and support of our project you already know won’t work). We can’t promise that everything sent magazine and the pleasures of raising Include details, photos or diagrams to help will be printed, but we do promise that poultry. others visualize your project. every article or letter will be read and Share your fun poultry stories. Con- considered. All Communications—For a quicker sider why you raise birds and encourage reply to any inquiry, be sure to include the others who are still hesitating about what Photo Contest—­ The photo contest is following contact information with every breed to raise, or even if they should raise ongoing. When we receive a photo, it communication: name, complete mailing poultry at all. is electronically copied, recorded and address, phone number (including area If you raise unusual breeds or poultry forwarded to the contest judges. The original photos are then returned to you, Co m m u n i t y : but your photo may still be used at any time in the future.

Address Changes—The post office does not forward magazines when you move. To be sure you don’t miss an issue, con- tact us as soon as possible by phone, e- mail or letter. Be sure to include your full name, complete old and new address.

Credit Card Orders—When you order a subscription, books or back issues with a credit card, the charges are processed under our publishing company, Country- side Publications, and will reflect that on your statement. When you order online, a confirma- tion e-mail is sent to you stating that your order has been sent to Countryside Publications. Be assured your order is for Backyard Poultry.

Contact Information—If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us immediately. Office hours are Monday- Friday, 8-4:30 central time. “I’m not sure how many children actually go sledding with their hens but... Write to Backyard Poultry, 145 In- This is my daughter, Jhan Wagenaar. Her chicken’s name is Priscella.” dustrial Dr., Medford, WI 54451; e-mail: —Jan La Forge, Ohio [email protected]; or phone: 800-551-5691. 6 Backyard Poultry February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 7 Le t t e r s : Do you have something to crow about? We want to hear from you. Send questions, comments, opinions, advice, coming events, etc. to: Backyard Poultry Editor, 145 Industrial Dr., Medford, WI 54451 e-mail: [email protected]

Dubbing Article Ruffles In the coop, prevent drafts by sealing increasing blood flow to the comb and Feathers and insulating the building better; hang wattles, which helps dissipate heat. They We received several letters regarding a couple brooder lights to take away also play a role in courtship by helping to the article on dubbing in the Dec. 08/Jan. the danger of frostbite in both feet and attract females. People that live in very 09 issue. Over the years, we have had a lot wattles. cold climates should raise breeds that of inquiries on what dubbing is, why it is In my own coop, I have ceramic heat- aren’t subject to frostbite. done, and how to dub, so the information ers that are preset to just above freezing, There are numerous breeds of chickens was provided. directed at the roosting areas. The heat with small tight combs to choose from that In general, most folks, including me, rises into an insulated space, and takes were bred specifically for cold climates would prefer to raise birds fit for their ar- the chill out of those freezing nights. They (e.g., rose comb, pea comb, and walnut ea’s climate, or to provide the extra treat- do not cost that much to run. I would go comb breeds). If someone chooses to raise ment to keep them from freezing. Even so, without a lamp in my house to make sure a single comb breed in a very cold climate education is the key to decision making, my hens are comfortable. I would never they have a moral responsibility to provide and the reason we offer these topics. cut off their tender ears! adequate housing to avoid frostbite. They For an excellent article on choosing I know sometimes there are things that need to provide heat during bad weather. It breeds more suitable to cold weather, see people do because it is traditional, either doesn’t take much effort to plug in a heat page 16. — Ed. in family or in business. I think we should lamp with an extension cord. take another look at these things now that Shame on you for promoting this Thank you for the opportunity to express we are trying to keep our animals safe and barbaric and outdated practice of animal my opinion. I have kept hens for laying and happy and not succumb to a “factory” cruelty. broilers for meat off and on for nearly 50 mentality when raising our food. I hope William M., Maryland years. I enjoy Backyard Poultry and find my letter allows readers to think about most of the articles helpful and informative. alternative choices. I just wanted to drop you a line and But I have to tell you how heartwrenching I understand why the article was of- tell you how refreshing it was to ready it was to see the mutilation of that beautiful fered and am not offended by opposing the Dec. 08/Jan. 09 issue. It is nice to see hen in the dubbing article. opinions, I just hope that as protectors of a publication that is willing to address all I also live in an area of the country our food supply, we can make life for all topics of poultry husbandry. The article that has very cold winters, but would our animals as comfortable as possible. on dubbing was a much-needed presenta- rather put the effort into making sure I hope that dubbing eventually fades tion. Though it is a controversial subject the hen’s living space is free from drafts out of practice as people come to know on many of the “feel good” forums on the and extreme temperatures than to lop off they have alternatives. What I say is of- Internet, and amongst breeders, it is not their sensitive body parts. Anyone who fered in the most friendly manner to fellow only a necessity to show many breeds of has held a hen and stroked the wattles henkeepers to consider. Thank you for fowl, but the proper method of dubbing is and comb know that these are not just listening to my plea. something that needs to be out there for unfeeling appendages that they can read- Lucy H., New Hampshire poultry enthusiasts. So many times I see ily spare to sharp scissors or knives. And dubbed birds at shows that have been done cutting any part until it bleeds to the point I was appalled when I opened up the poorly, thus losing points in judging, where of clogging the chicken’s nostrils is more Dec. 08/Jan. 09 issue of Backyard Poultry those few points meant the difference from than hurtful, it is barbaric. to see a feature article promoting dub- placing, to bringing home nothing. I know some chickens are required bing as a way to prepare your poultry for Also, the practice of dubbing is crucial to have this done as part of show tradi- winter. Dubbing is a form of mutilation in battling the effects that severe cold can tion, but I would hope, like cutting a employed by commercial agri-business have on your birds. I have seen frostbite puppy’s tail, it is done with anesthesia who are more concerned about what is on fowl, and seen the consequences of not and consideration. I know this is part of easiest for the poultry manager and not treating it properly. It is puzzling to hear the knowledge that some people have the welfare of the animal. This practice people talk about taking the extra time to had for a very long time, but would hope is banned by the Animal Welfare Institute hand feed cross-billed chicks, amputate we now have better ways to create better and the Certified Humane Farm Animal deformed legs, and bind spraddle-legged living spaces instead of lopping off body Care programs, and for good reason. chicks as “helping” the poor little bird, parts that might get cold. One would not The comb and wattles of poultry only to have them turn around and bash cut off his own ears to prevent them from are highly vascularized tissues that help someone who dubs their Old English getting frostbite, but protect them from cool the bird in warm weather. Chickens Game bantams. the cold in the first place. don’t perspire, they pant much like a dog, The raising of poultry, as with any 8 Backyard Poultry livestock, brings many challenges that require actions to be taken that fall outside Organic of the “Disney” perspective of farming. Poultry Feeds Culling fowl, butchering meat birds, etc. All feeds are soy-free. may not be the cup of tea that some poultry • Chicks • Turkeys • Ducklings fanciers want to do, but with many people • Goslings • Guineas Certifi ed organic feeds to keep being so far removed from the farm, and • Gamebirds • Bantams your poultry healthy. the raising of food, many have lost touch • Equipment • Books See our feed online: with the reality of the fact that these birds were domesticated for one thing; food. Call 717-365-3694 www.countrysidenatural.com I try to encourage open mindedness to www.hoffmanhatchery.com To order call: 1-888-699-7088 all those I discuss fowl with, and it was a FREE PO Box 129BP 1688 Jefferson Hwy. • Fishersville, VA 22939 pleasant surprise to see your publication CATALOG!! Gratz, PA 17030 Natural Products for Healthy Soil, practicing the same approach. You have Plants, & Animals just hooked yourself a new subscriber. – Since 1941– trademark Thank you for all the hard work you all ® do. “Dress” your BOYERTOWN, PENNSYLVANIA birds! Christopher F. via e-mail • Ideal Personal/Business Gift! • Handcrafted in PA since1941 Whether they Reader Enjoys Broad • Brush Axe - Sickle Hook are chickens, • Clear Brush/Prune ducks, geese Range of Articles Landscape/Blaze Trails We raise rare and endangered breeds or turkeys. including many gamefowl breeds. I was • Landowners • Sportsmen really surprised to see promotion of an Economical & plucks feathers custom • Campers Asil article on the cover of the Dec. 08/ engraving in just 30 seconds!! issue, and I wasn’t disappointed. Jan. 09 BC Free Information - Dealers Welcome Visit us online at: Asils (also spelled Aseel) are truly an www.schweisswelding.com amazing breed but they are so rare that 1-800-708-5191 M-F/9-5 PO Box 477 • Fairfax, MN 55332 many poultry enthusiasts never have a www.woodmanspal.com chance to see them. I believe all gamefowl 507-426-7828 • 507-828-0261 need to be experienced in person to truly understand and appreciate their character. Your article did an excellent job of shed- ding light on the breed. I was amazed that the article also dealt with the basic practices of keeping gamefowl. I find the game breeds the most worthwhile to raise but they do require more knowledge, care and more pens than your typical barnyard production breeds. I was impressed with your magazine and thank you for publish- ing the excellent Asil article. Jennifer W. via e-mail

Ad Offends Reader Just to let you know because of an ad in your magazine, I will not renew my subscription. I realize that predation can be devastating on poultry, but I live in coyote country, and I make sure my chickens are safe from predators. What do people do in Alaska with bald eagle predation? They make sure their poultry are in eagle-proof pens. My birds are in a 2,000 sq. ft. pen, and are safe. This is what we have done to prevent (U(USA)SA) 866-435-3837 • ((Local)Local) 309-309-522-5024522-5024 any animal including wild birds and [email protected] • www.HelfterFeeds.com rodents from getting into the chicken pen. The existing area had field fencing Organic Products for All Livestock already, so we then covered that with FPD335

February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 9 chicken wire, and then covered that with been! This is a photo of my Collie, Ellie, bird netting. An electric fence around the who has appointed herself as the “guard- entire perimeter adds to the security. We ian” of our flock of 24 hens and three also dug in the chicken wire about 15" into roosters. The birds are very comfortable the ground to keep rodents from digging in. with Ellie in their company, and haven’t The top of the pen is done in 1/2" hardware been bothered by hawks once while she cloth, only because of wild birds that come is on duty. in and eat the feed. Our five acres are not Janet L., Wisconsin fenced so coyotes frequently come onto our land. Our dogs chase them out, but they still Reply to Chickens That come back. We decided to live with them Can’t Roost and add extra protection to any defenseless In the Oct/Nov, 08 issue, the topic of animals we raise. Why kill animals when chickens that can’t roost was presented in you can just add more protective fencing the Answer Man section. This is a question around your animal? for which I have some experience. Sharon via e-mail I had Cochins, and like the rest of my chickens, they slept up in the rafters of my We offer, and will continue to offer, pole buildings. Some of the rafters were predation protection articles and adver- 12', others 14' in the air. They used things tisers as long as we continue to receive inside to hop, flap and jump their way up inquiries regarding predation losses. As to the rafters in the evening, but come nice as it would be to never receive an- morning, down they came flapping all the other heartwrenching letter or frantic call way down in one step. Yeah, we had the about predator-related poultry deaths, occasional broken leg from a hard landing. I don’t expect it to happen soon. In the Most healed just fine with little help from meantime, we will continue to offer solu- me; they just seemed to know to stay off tions to predation through both articles it when it hurt and gradually started to use and advertisers. it, as it healed. Not that I didn’t try to help, We have inlcuded several articles about but I quickly learned they healed faster if 888-290-1771 predation in past issues, including “Things I left them alone, and just made sure they Have Changed in Predator Control!,” “Rats had plenty of food and water and a safe NEW! In Your Poultry House, Part One, April/May, low place to hide at night. 2006; “Rats In Your Poultry House, Part Currently my two large birds are hens 2,” June/July, 2006; “Predation Questions of the Cornish X, meant to be a terminal Abound,” August/September, 2006; “In the bird, but I let some live last year. Amaz- Solar Water Dishes, Shadow of the Hawk,” October/November, ingly enough, they were the only birds to Chicken Coop Heaters, 2006; “Poultry Predator Identification: lay in the bitter cold winter—not a lot, Organic Scratch The First Step To Deterrence,” August/ but steady. & More September, 2007. Many of these articles Several have died of heart failure this are available on our website: www.back- summer, but two are still going strong this Visit us on the web at: yardpoultrymag.com, or you can order back fall, and while they are not completely issues from page 64.— Ed. feathered in, they are good foragers who free range. They also come out at night Collie Makes Good Guard Dog with the ducks for milk and grain at my This is the first year that we have had bedtime, way after dark and always hun- The bulb to buy when chickens, and what an experience it has gry. These two hens sleep on top of the you don’t want to worry dog crate at night, but in the winter they about the bulb you crawl right under the blanket I cover the bought. dog with, and use the dog’s warmth to L make it through the bitter cold nights. The Perfect for incubators dog didn’t seem to mind at all. 20,000 hour product Shelene, Nebraska

Over 2 years operation Thanks for sharing the details of your birds. It is often the case that our animals * American Made * can teach us a lot if we wait to see how na- Call for pricing ture works, but it is also human nature to intervene, assuming that we are helping. 502-426-1070 Janet Ludvik’s Collie dog has taken on Every day we get another interesting

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Store Hours: M - F Order Toll Free 1-800-624-4493 8:00 am - 4:30 pm CST Order Online: FlemingOutdoors.com Free Shipping Over $150 www.FlemingOutdoors.com Order By Fax: 1-334-562-9000 February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 11 tures, and often they include other species as well. The fun never ends. Readers, do you have a unique story of your poultry in- teracting with other animals? Share them with us by mailing to Backyard Poultry Editor, 145 Industrial Dr., Medford, WI 54451 or e-mail: [email protected].—Ed.

A Very Enjoyable Read & Helpful Hint I won a one-year subscription to Back- yard Poultry from your website (www. backyardpoultrymag.com), and just re- ceived my first issue. I have now read it cover to cover and am really impressed. It was not only very informative, it was also very entertaining. I really liked the pictures, jokes and, believe it or not, the advertising. I will definitely be renewing my subscrip- tion. Again, a very enjoyable read. Now for a chicken coop suggestion: I use two bungee cords hooked together and hang my feeders and waterers from them. As they empty the bungee cords retract, raising the feeder/waterer, letting me know they need refilling. This is a big time saver and helps keep empty water- ers clean. Albert M., Georgia

Another Great Read: The Great Turkey Walk I saw the article “Chick Lit” in the Oct/ Nov, 2008 issue of Backyard Poultry listing some of the entertaining books that feature poultry. I would like to offer another title to your collection. Recently I read the middle- school-level book The Great Turkey Walk by Kathleen Karr. I was able to find copies on e-Bay. Thank you for a nice listing of books in your article. Miss Brenda Miller

According to the Multnomah County, Oregon library’s “Talk it up!” program, “Imagine you’re 15 years old, just finished your third try at passing the third grade and have been told by your teacher that it’s time for you to leave school and go out and make your way in the world. What would you do? How about buying 1,000 turkeys for 25 cents apiece, walking them 800 miles from Missouri to Denver and selling them for $5 apiece? Well, it’s 1860 and to Simon Green this sounds like a great idea. Now, Simon isn’t exactly the sharpest knife in the drawer, but he’s got enough good sense to recognize a great business opportunity when he sees one and enough determina- tion to pull it off. And determination is what 12 Backyard Poultry he needs with all the challenges he faces on his way to Denver. “Simon and his business partners encounter some crazy adventures as they make their way across the country. And what makes this story even crazier is that there really were folks who walked herds of turkeys hundreds of miles to market back in the 19th century. Read about all of Simon’s adventures in The Great Turkey Walk by Kathleen Karr.” For more young reader ideas visit their website www.multcolib.org/talk/. After seeing this great review, I request- ed a copy from our local library, read it, and thoroughly enjoyed it. I recommend it for everyone; young and old alike.—Ed.

Youth Apologizes for Plagiarism of Poem In the Dec. 08/Jan. 09 issue, I sent a poem that was on page 11 titled “The Chickens Run.” I am sorry with all my heart but I did not write that poem. I found it online and edited it up as well as I could. I thought the poem was cool because it was like something my grandma would do so I changed it to make it sound like my grandma instead. I thought that it was ok but when my mom saw the magazine in the mail she asked if I had written it. I answered partly, and that I had changed the words. She explained to me that was HATCHING MADE EASY

plagiarism. I am sorry to the original au- DEPENDABLE thor and the readers of Backyard Poultry, & ACCURATE, NO ASSEMBLY please forgive me. REQUIRED Abigail, Indiana

Missing Text in Article In the Dec. 08/Jan. 09 issue, Harvey Ussery’s article, “The Homestead Flock: - Digital Command Center monitors the health of the Pets or Partners?” had several sentences entire system every second. Any problems found are cut off from page 21. Following is the spelled out on the LCD complete paragraph, with the missing text display. bolded. We apologize for the error.—Ed. - Easy to use touch controls.

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February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 13 Hatching Made Easy BP.indd 1 12/20/2007 5:14:20 PM SPPA Ne w s : Research Your Breed

Where to Find Those Details

Ch r i s t i n e He i n r i c h s SPPA Hi s t o r i a n

istoric breeds are not only in short supply – information about them Hcan be just as difficult to find. Some new digital tools may help you find the background you are seeking on your breed. University libraries often have excel- This painting of Silver-grey Dorkings is one of the reproductions of the plates taken lent collections. If you live near one, you from The Illustrated Book of Poultry by Lewis Wright (1838-1905), reproduced by Dr. J. Batty in 1983. “In the first edition, plates were produced as chromolithographs and the may be able to get Town Patron privileges: result was a depth of color difficult to achieve in later editions. Even the style of painting for an annual fee, you can borrow books went through a change,” Dr. Batty writes. and use the library computers. At Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, about 30 miles from my These wonderful electronic tools ex- Books such as these provide docu- home, the charge is $60, a real bargain. tend the resources to every location that mentation of what breeds looked like at The interconnections between libraries has a signal and a computer. The down that time and how they were valued. provide the possibility of finding a book side of the Internet is that misinformation Three books by Harry Lamon, who through an interlibrary loan. Robert Blosl can circulate just as easily as facts. Check developed the Lamona, are included: The of Blosl’s Poultry Farm in Silverhill, Ala- sources and read with a critical eye. Al- Mating and Breeding of Poultry, Practi- bama, explains the procedure and lists his though these electronic tools give each of cal Poultry Production and How to Select personal recommendations on his website, us the opportunity to locate information, the Laying Hen. http://bloslspoutlryfarm.tripod.com/id37. they are not the same as having actual Specific breeds are the focus of html. WorldCat, www.worldcat.org, lists books. Finding the original source and works such as Herbert Atkinson’s The locations where you can find books from cross checking with other sources pro- Old English Game Fowl (1913) and its database of over 10,000 libraries. vides traceable, reliable information. Cock-Fighting and Game Fowl (1938), Dr. J. Batty’s Understanding Old Eng- Digital Tools Help Find Breed Books Never Go Out of Style lish Game Large and Bantams (1976) Background A generous and farsighted poultry and Reliable Poultry Journal Publish- You may not need to get your hands lover recently donated his book collec- ing’s Asiatics: The Brahmas, Cochins on an actual book. Many books are now tion to SPPA. It includes more than 140 and Langshans, which is undated. Reli- available in their entirety online. Sites books. able was active in publishing in the first such as www.archive.org and Google Louis Meyi of Marblehead, Massa- two decades of the 20th century. John Book Search have scanned entire books chusetts, decided to find a home for his Freeman’s Brahma Fowls (1968) is a and allow you to search them and read collection after leaving New Orleans in history of their origin and their intro- them free online. This is limited to books the wake of Hurricane Katrina’s destruc- duction into America and England. A.C. that are beyond copyright, but those are tion. Because SPPA is a 501c(3) organiza- Smith wrote The Plymouth Rock Stan- often exactly what poultry historians are tion, Mr. Meyi can deduct the value of the dard and Breed Book for the American looking for. The Open Library, http:// books from his taxes. Poultry Association in 1915, illustrated openlibrary.org, aims to create a web Many of the books are in excellent by Franklane Sewell. page for every book ever published. Over condition, despite their age. Many date Color gets attention in Dr. J. Batty’s 20 million are already available through back to the 19th century, including such Poultry Colour Guide (1979) and his the site. If the book you want isn’t among classics as Harrison Weir’s Our Poultry reproduction of Lewis Wright’s Poultry them, the Boston Public Library has a and All About Them, Vol. II, 1903, Lewis illustrations by J.W. Ludlow (1983). Scan on Demand service, http://openli- Wright’s Illustrated Book of Poultry from These books are like new. brary.org/bpl, that might be able to get it 1880 and Martin Doyle’s Illustrated Book Chickens are not the only subject to you within minutes. of Domestic Poultry from 1857. of these books. Eggleston’s American 14 Backyard Poultry Squab Culture from 1921 is illustrated Some of the books are in fragile with black and white photos and draw- condition. Funding to maintain these ings. Herbert Myrick’s classic Turkeys books, de-acidify the ones that need it, and How to Grow Them, with a beautiful provide boxes for them, and any other turkey embossed in gold on the cover, care to preserve them in the best possible 1902, documents the situation at the turn condition is being sought. Donations are of the century. Most of the general works welcome. address ducks, geese and turkeys. Some Handling these wonderful old books address other fowl: guineafowl, even has been a special pleasure for me. I am game birds such as pheasants, in Wil- grateful to Mr. Meyi for his donation liam Beebe’s Pheasants: Their Lives and and to SPPA for the opportunity to work Homes, Volumes I and II and W.B. Teget- with them. meier’s Pheasants: Their Natural History This bounty gives SPPA a core of & Practical Management, 1922. literary history on which to draw for SPPA members are welcome to in- research on historic breeds. Thank you quire as to information in these books to Mr. Meyi for making it possible. This Country Hatchery and receive copies of the relevant pages. collection will benefit SPPA members Many Breeds of At this time, the collection is housed at and all that they touch with their research Ducklings, Chicks, my home in Cambria, California. and birds. Goslings, Guineas, and Turkeys. Mites in FREE Color catalog! Winter Poultry Houses 405/257-1236 www.countryhatchery.net Dr. Ch a r l e s R. H. Ev e r e t t [email protected] SPPA Se c r e t a r y /Tr e a s u r e r Country Hatchery ne of the most common problems during the winter season is mites. These PO Box 747 • Wewoka, OK 74884 are usually transmitted by wild birds that have access to our chicken Still Open!!! - Our 44th Year! yards. Most of us are not willing to sacrifice the freedom of our flocks Ojust to keep them mite free. So, what is a person to do? First, you need to paint the roost poles in your chicken house with burnt motor oil. I also suggest painting the inside of your nesting boxes as well; allow these to dry before putting straw or shavings back into them. Secondly, clean out the floor of your chicken house removing all the litter. I usually do this in the spring and fall, but you can do it whenever it is convenient for you. Just make sure that you are doing all these things at the same time. Once this has been done, spray or dust the earthen floor. I suggest using either 50% Sevin dust or 55% Malathion spray. If using the spray make sure that the birds stay out of the building until it is completely dry. After this application, place fresh litter back on the floor of the house; I prefer wheat or oat straw to all other litters. I do not like pine shavings. Finally, I treat each bird individually by spraying the vent area, under the wings, and the neck with pyrethrin. I also spray the birds with pyrethrin spray as I have the opportunity throughout the season to handle them, such as when I move them from the chicken house to the breed pen and then back again. If your birds already have mites when you spray them the first time, then you will need to do so again at seven day intervals a couple more times because of the gradual hatching of mite eggs, which ends up re-infesting the clean birds. The SPPA is all about the promoting and dissemination of rare and historic breeds of poultry. To this end, by networking together we are able to locate stock and learn better management practices along the way. You can join today by sending $15 in annual dues to Dr. Charles Everett, 1057 Nick Watts Rd., Lugoff, SC 29078. Laura John wrote a comprehensive article on mites in the Oct./Nov., 2007 issue of Backyard Poultry. It is also available on our website, www.backyard- poultrymag.com, choose the library egg, and then see health section. Visit this online library for many other poultry-related articles.—Ed.

February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 15 seem to fare fine in cold weather. Chanteclers were developed as a Cana- Some Historic “Naked Necks are just tough chick- dian breed and remain the only recognized ens,” said Craig Russell, SPPA presi- Canadian breed. Their small, low, cushion Breeds Are Better dent. combs are well suited to cold weather. Generally, the comb is the most sensi- They are good winter layers. They are Adapted to Cold tive part of the chicken and most likely to big birds, cocks weighing more than 8 suffer cold damage. Frozen combs do not lbs. and hens more than 6 lbs. When the Weather regenerate – it’s like dubbing. The expe- last rooster being kept at the University of rience is stressful for the chicken, so it’s Saskatchewan died in 1979, the breed was best avoided. If your chickens have large declared extinct, but small flock owners single combs and they are coping with across Canada and the U.S. had maintained Ch r i s t i n e He i n r i c h s SPPA Pu b l i c i t y Di r e c t o r temperatures below freezing, a coat of them. The numbers were relatively low, Il l u s t r a t i o n s c op y r i g h t e d b y t h e petroleum jelly on the comb can provide and some breeders graded other breeds some protection. into their birds to strengthen them. Chan- ith the blast of Arctic air that A heat lamp in the coop, even a teclers are a modern composite breed, so covered the Midwest recently, regular light bulb, can provide sufficient they can also be re-created. As a result, several people contacted the additional warmth to protect birds from there is some discussion about purity of WSociety for Preservation of Poultry Antiq- damage. Chickens generate warmth with the existing stock and whether birds come uities to inquire about chicken breeds that their own bodies, so more birds means from original or re-created lines. You may do well in cold weather. Most chickens more warmth. determine for yourself to what extent you manage cold well, but some breeds are Sometimes the biggest challenge is wish to be involved in that discussion. especially well adapted. keeping the water from freezing. Electric “I’m willing to testify that at least Overall, chickens are heavily feath- water dishes are available. Make sure your some modern stock is pure,” said Mr. ered and insulated against the cold. chickens have fresh water available. Russell. Breeds with more feathers do better. Silkies, with their hair-like feathers, Wyandottes were developed in New Oriental Game breeds such as Malays are subject to chill if their feathers get York State in the 1870s, another location and Shamos as a group may suffer in cold wet. Keep an extra eye on them. known for cold winter weather. They weather. Naked Necks, with about half If you are looking for breeds adapted feather out well and come in several col- the feathers of other breeds, nevertheless to cold climates, here are suggestions: ors. The Columbian color pattern comes from Wyandottes that were exhibited at the 1893 Columbian Exhibition at the Chicago World’s Fair. They are a good dual purpose breed. Dominiques, with their rose combs, are reliable and sturdy. They have a long American history going back to colonial times, so they have survived many cold winters. Buckeyes are the only American breed credited to a woman, Mrs. Nettie Metcalf of Warren, Ohio. They are named for the The Red Ranger - Buckeye state and the Buckeye whose one of five breeds we offer. color they have. With their pea combs, they are well-suited to those cold Ohio winters and a good all-around breed. Norwegian Jaerhons are a long es- Providing tablished Scandinavian breed that was colored- standardized in the 20th century. They feathered, old are smaller, 5 lbs. for cocks and 3-1/2 lbs. style broiler for hens, with attractive patterns. A good chicks to the choice for a hardy dual purpose breed. pastured poultry Join SPPA by sending $15 to Dr. Charles Everett, 1057 Nick Watts Rd., S & G Poultry, LLC producer, live markets and Lugoff, SC 29078 for a year’s member- PO Box 2363 ship that includes a Breeders Directory Clanton, Alabama 35046 other growers of that will put you in touch with breeders of 205.280.3771 great tasting these and many other poultry breeds. sandgpoultry.com chicken. Reprinted from Backyard Poultry, April/May, 2007

16 Backyard Poultry Pasture Poultry Seminar Co m i n g Ev e n t s : Attica, New York If you have a poultry-related event, send details 60 days in advance and April 25, 2009 HLW Acres, LLC is hosting their 7th we’ll include it in this listing. Send to: Coming Events, Backyard Poultry, Annual On-the-Farm Pasture Poultry Semi- 145 Industrial Dr., Medford, WI 54451 or e-mail:byp@tds. net nar in Attica, New York on Saturday, April 25, 2009. Registration is at 8:00 a.m. with Swap & Sell the town of Thibodeaux. The weather in coffee and donuts. The program will begin St. James, Minnesota Louisiana is usually at its finest in April. at 9:00 a.m. and end around 5:00 p.m. February 8, 2009 RV parking is available on the grounds. This year’s presenter will be Dave Swap and sell poultry and poultry re- A five-star restaurant is also located there, Smith, Springfield Farms, Sparks, Mary- lated items. Watonwan County Fairgrounds. serving traditional Louisiana cuisine. Oak land. Dave is a past president of the 7:00 am to 10:00 am. Information: Trevor Alley is a premier tourist attraction in the American Pastured Poultry Producers As- Nau 507-375-4716. South. A trip to Oak Alley is not complete sociations and operates a diversified farm without a tour of the mansion and mani- with his wife and children. He will talk Swap & Sell cured lawns. (www.oakalleyplantation. about integrated farm models, operation New Ulm, Minnesota com) and marketing of pastured poultry produc- March 22, 2009 A great lineup of judges for the show tion and backyard flocks. Swap and sell poultry and poultry includes James Adkins, California; Gary Seminar cost is $60 per person or $100 related items. Brown County Fairgrounds. Overton and Edgar Mongold, Ohio; Wilfred per couple. Lunch is provided. A tour of 7:00 am to 10:00 am. Information: Trevor Lombary, head of the Belgian Standard the farm and state-inspected slaughtering Nau 507-375-4716. Commission, Hans Ringnalda and, Sigreds facility will be included. VonDart, the Netherlands. For more information, please contact Funky Chicken Coop Tour The American Silkie Bantam Club will Hermann and Laurie Weber, HLW Acres, April 11, 2009 also have a special meet at this event. LLC, 1727 Exchange Street Rd., Attica, Austin, Texas For more information, contact Jerry NY 14011; (585) 591-0795. If there is Join us for the first Austin Texas Funky Schexnayder: [email protected]; 225-265- something you would like included in the Chicken Coop Tour! Have you been think- 2238 or 504-621-0596. Visit the SCNA program please contact me. ing about keeping urban chickens? Do you website for more information on the Serama Please dress for the weather. Boot cov- need coop design ideas? Interested in the breed: www.scnaonline.org/. erings and overalls will be provided. slow food/localvore movement? Then this is the tour for you! Hey, this is even for those of you that already have backyard chickens and are thinking about changing your coop design. (There's always room for improvement, right?) Also, feel free to come peck (oops, meant pick) our brains on raising chickens. Tour will run 10:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Tour map will be available in March at http://fccooptour.blogspot.com/. Event is free, join us for coop design ideas and community fellowship. For more infor- mation, please visit http://fccooptour. blogspot.com/.

Swap & Sell New Ulm, Minnesota April 11, 2009 Swap and sell poultry and poultry related items. Brown County Fairgrounds. 7:00 am to 10:00 am. Information: Trevor Nau 507-375-4716.

Serama Extravaganza Cajun Classic, Vacherie, Louisiana April 18, 2009 Join us for the Serama Extravaganza at the Oak Alley Plantation, 3645 Highway 18 (Great River Rd.), Vacherie. Louisiana. This is the largest Serama extravaganza out- side of Malaysia. Vacherie is 20 miles from

February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 17 fies two separate calls where Collias perception); the use of sounds to denote He a l t h : identifies a two-part call; where Collias environmental events such as the discov- identifies the same call used in different ery of food or the approach of a predator situations, Beaumer identifies different (which he refers to as functionally refer- Fowl calls; and where Collias identifies differ- ential); the production of sounds for the ent intensities of the same call, Baeumer benefit of an audience (other chickens). identifies separate calls. As Collias points Evans does not, however, mean to imply out, “the decision whether to distinguish that chickens have a language compa- Language one or two similar calls that sometimes rable to that of humans. For one thing, intergrade can be rather arbitrary.” their vocabulary is extremely limited. To use a human example of the dif- For another chickens don’t, as far as we Ga i l Da m e r o w ficulty of identifying separate words, if know, discuss abstract concepts, or past you put your finger in front of your mouth or future events, but limit their commu- pickup pulled into my driveway. and softly make the sound “shh,” you nications to the present. A fellow opened the door and his communicate a request for silence. If, on A significant feature of human lan- dog jumped out and started run- the other hand, you more forcefully hiss a guage is that it must be learned. Mark ningA circles around a pen of chickens. short “shh!” you insist on instant silence. Konishi, a behavioral biologist at Califor- “Could you please control your dog?” In both cases the sound “shh” means nia Institute of Technology in Pasadena I asked. hush, but inflection conveys important (while a graduate student at the Univer- “Why?” he responded. differences in meaning. Where Baeumer sity of California, Berkley) found that “Because he’s scaring my chick- might classify two different sounds, Col- chicks experimentally deafened within ens.” lias would see different intensities of the two days of hatching nevertheless grow “How can you tell?” same sound, but admitted that “because of up to develop a normal repertoire of “They’re flapping and squawking.” intergradation between some signals and sounds. The deaf chicks therefore could “Chickens always flap and between different situations, no absolute not have learned chicken language by squawk.” size of vocal repertoire can be fixed.” listening to other chickens. On the other Well, that might be true if every time He points out, though, that the size hand, Evans studied predator warning this fellow is around chickens, his dog of the vocabulary isn’t as important as calls made by several groups of chicks has fun chasing them. Chickens make creating accurate descriptions to ensure and found that the group with both a lot of different sounds, and every one everyone is referring to the same thing. predator experience and an opportunity of them means something. Anyone who In science, observation and videotapes to see the anti-predator behavior of adult spends much time around chickens can allow researchers to match the sounds chickens had normal responses to a tell by the sounds they make if they are chickens make with their actions, and predator, while the calling behavior of frightened, contented, cautious, and a audiospectrograms (graphs depicting three control groups was deficient. His whole range of other emotions. sound waves) are used to accurately finding indicates that some degree of Some scientists insist the idea of map the sounds. Still, even scientists learning is involved. chickens communicating through the don’t always agree on what to name each Most research involves chickens in sounds they make is nothing short of an- sound. Further, no one has developed a cages, or otherwise artificially confined, thropomorphizing, or attributing human definitive list of all the sounds chickens so it’s hard to say how confinement and behavior to an animal. They cling to this make, or determined with certainty what the presence of humans might influence notion because communicating through each sound means to the chickens. the research results. When I work quietly language is supposedly a major distinction Collias refers to chicken sounds as at the barn long after I normally would between humans and animals. Progressive vocal signals or calls. Animal behaviorist have left, I hear all sorts of chicken sounds, scientists—most likely having grown up Chris Evans of Macquarie University in not all of which are readily identifiable— with chickens before they got educated— Sydney, Australia, also studies chicken sometimes because a sound is used too spend a lifetime studying the sounds sounds, and like Collias is careful to des- infrequently to be easily identified, and chickens make and what they mean. ignate them as calls or signals. Baeumer sometimes because too many chickens are called them sound patterns (Klangbilder), talking at once. Still, plenty of the words in Do Chickens Talk? but argued that referring to them as the vocabulary of chicks, hens, and cocks In the 1960s a German physician words is not unreasonable. Indeed, Evans are clearly recognizable. named Erich Baeumer identified 30 dis- points out that chicken sounds conveying tinct sounds made by chickens. At about information—such as the approach of a Baby Talk the same time, Nicholas E. Collias of the predator or the discovery of food—reveal A chick peeps even before it hatches University of California in Los Angeles a complex and sophisticated system that from the egg, and shortly after hatching identified 24 calls made by red jungle parallels human language. makes a number of different sounds by fowl, from which most of our chicken Evans recognizes three similari- which you can tell if it is content or un- breeds originated. Collias accounts for ties between chicken talk and human happy. The happy sounds tend to swing the discrepancy in numbers by pointing language: the ability to distinguish spe- upward in pitch, while the unhappy out that Baeumer sometimes identi- cific sounds (which he calls categorical sounds descend in pitch. 18 Backyard Poultry Pleasure peeps are the soft irregular sounds that are low-pitched, brief, soft, sounds chicks use to maintain contact and repetitive to attract, calm, and com- with each other and their mother. Mean- fort them. Sudden or high-pitched, long, ing: I’m right here. and loud sounds (such as the noise made Pleasure trill is the soft rapidly re- by active children and some machinery) peated sound chicks make when they’ve frighten them. found food or are nestling under the hen, happy to have a warm, safe place to sleep. Listen to Mama Meaning: Life is good. When a chick starts peeping before it Distress peeps are loud, sharp, hatches from the egg, a setting hen will grouped sounds chicks make when respond to the unhatched chick. Through they’re cold or hungry. Meaning: I’m this early communication, chicks learn miserable. to recognize the sound of their mother’s Panic peeps are the loud, penetrat- voice. After the chicks hatch, the hen ing peeps of a chick that’s scared or lost. uses three specific calls to keep them This sound is similar to distress peeps, together, help them find food, and warn but louder and more insistent. Collias them of danger. considers the two to be the same sound; Cluck is a short, low-pitched repetitive Baeumer does not. Anyone who keeps sound made by a hen with chicks. Some chicks for long can hear the difference. setting hens start clucking well before their Meaning: Help! eggs are due to hatch, especially when off Fear trill is the sharp rapidly repeated the nest briefly to eat or eliminate. Most sound made by a chick that sees something setting hens start clucking when their strange or potentially threatening, such as chicks peep prior to or during the hatch. a small unfamiliar object or a hand reach- The frequent cluck of a mother hen, some- ing toward it. Meaning: Don’t hurt me. times accompanied by the ruffling of her Fear peep is the sharp, surprised cry feathers, encourages her chicks to follow. of a chick that’s been grabbed abruptly. Meaning: Stay close. Meaning: Hey, what’s the idea! Food call is a high-pitched sound In communicating with chicks, make more rapidly repeated than the cluck. Pigeons, Poultry, Cage Birds, Rabbits, Ferrets, Small Animals

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February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 19 Sometimes a clucking hen, on encoun- Hen Sounds the nest. Meaning: Follow me and leave tering some tasty tidbit, will segue from Some hens are considerably more my egg alone. clucking to the tuck-tuck-tuck food call talkative than others. Hens that are free Broody hiss is made by a setting hen that inspires chicks to come running and to roam around their premises are noisier, that’s been disturbed on the nest. Collias look for food the hen indicates by pecking in my experience, than hens that are more explains that the sound is produced by a the ground, picking up and dropping bits, closely confined, such as for breeding strong expulsion of air from the respira- or breaking the item into smaller pieces or exhibition. And some breeds are just tory system and is probably one of the the chicks can more easily handle. Once naturally more talkative than others. My most primitive sound signals of terrestrial in a great while a hen without chicks, or a current hens have a huge repertoire of vertebrates. Meaning: Stay away. chick itself, will make this sound. Mean- sounds, not all of which I have succeeded Broody growl is a harsh sound made ing: I found something tasty to eat. in learning the meanings of—largely by a disrupted hen on the nest, or a hen Hush sound is a soft, vibrating sound, because they stop to look at me when I with chicks in protest to a cock intent something like errrr, that warns chicks of peek in to see what they’re doing. One on mating. It might also come from a potential danger and causes them to flat- hen repeatedly lets out an unusual single- low-ranking hen approached by a higher- ten to the ground and be quiet. When the syllable sound I can best describe as a ranking hen, or from any hen on seeing chicks are young and staying close to the howl, that’s so loud it carries farther than a small, familiar animal such as a cat or hen, they dive under her and she spreads a cock’s crow. She doesn’t seem to be rat. The sound is not particularly loud, but her wings to cover them. As they get older doing anything particular while she says indicates defensiveness and mistrustful- and begin to stray, they may flatten into it, and in decades of keeping chickens of ness of some disturbance. It is accompa- the grass on hearing their mother sound many breeds I’ve never heard any other nied by feather ruffling to increase the the hush note, which she may repeat chicken make that sound. intimidation, and may be accompanied periodically if she perceives continuing Laying cackle is a series of sounds by a peck—for instance to a human hand danger. Meaning: Be still. made by a hen after she lays an egg and reaching under the hen to retrieve a fresh is leaving the nest. Some hens repeat egg. Meaning: Don’t mess with me. these sounds a few times, others carry Singing is the sound of happy hens. FAST�FENCE on far too long. It’s tempting to think The notes are usually rapidly repeated, Info�and�buy�now�at 2006 BackYard Poultry half Page.qxd they’re 4/28/2006 bragging 11:09 about AM having Page just 1 laid but are sometimes drawn out. The pur- www.electricnets.com an egg, but chances are the cackle is pose of singing is likely self-amusement, 800-356-5458 designed to draw predators away from akin to someone humming while doing

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20 Backyard Poultry dishes or singing in the shower. If I linger Property Alert Systems Brown Egg in the barn after feeding, I am sure to be serenaded by a chorus of cheerfully sing- Blue Egg ing hens. Meaning: All is well. Bantam Araucana & Social Sounds Know the instant someone Silkie Chickens Chickens use a variety of sounds to walks or drives onto your property. Driveway Alert beeps in your home • Show Winning • Started chicks maintain social contact. The general pur- Flock to adults pose is likely to ensure flock cohesion, up to 3000’ away. Only $169.00 + TX and to keep individuals from straying into tax and shipping. Order Online ! Visit us online! the jaws or clutches of a predator. WWW.DRIVEWAYBEEPERS.COM www.BrownEggBlueEgg.com Contentment call is a low-pitched Solar Products Company, Box 40, Weston, Texas 75097 [email protected] sound repeated by both cocks and hens To order by phone Call: 972-567-2542 when they are safe and comfortable. They 136 Woodland Dr. • Eaton, Ohio 45320 make this sound while actively moving around, but not intensely foraging. It probably keeps them in touch with one another so none gets left behind as they travel. Meaning: Let’s stick together. Nesting call is used by a hen looking for a site she feels is suitable for laying eggs. A cock will make a similar, but more intensely excited, sound to show a hen a potential nest site, which might be the corner of a hay manger, a gap between bales of hay, or a nook behind a door. While he croons, he nestles into the spot as if he is going to lay an egg himself. The sound is more common to pullets and cockerels, but also comes from mature hens that start laying again after a rest period. A lot of times the cock is ignored, but occasionally a hen will check out the spot he’s found and respond with her own song, creating a kind of avian duet. Mean- ing: Here’s a good place to lay eggs. Roosting call is a low pitched, rapidly repeated sound made at nightfall when chickens are ready to roost. A large flock can make quite a racket, but it doesn’t last long. The function of this call is to ensure that all the chickens roost together for safety’s sake. Meaning: Let’s sleep here.

Cock Talk Roosters have a colorful vocabulary covering a wide range of activities. They seem to enjoy being the center of attention, as many of their sounds draw attention to themselves. Food call, similar to that of a hen call- ing her chicks, is used by a cock to call hens to him. He’ll use this excited, rapid tuck-tuck-tuck sound to tell the hens he has found something tasty, such as a patch of grain thrown on the ground. He might re- peatedly pick up and drop a bug or a piece of fruit, a practice known as tidbitting, or February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 21 hold a piece for a hen to take from his beak. Tarzan beating his chest and shouting out the longer the assumed predator is in sight, Sometimes a cock will give the food call, his familiar jungle call. Meaning: I’m in and may continue after the creature has but with not quite as much excitement, charge here. (For more on crowing see gone. The same sound may come from a on encountering feathers and other debris “A Cock’s Crow” in the Dec. 08/Jan. 09 hen that’s been disturbed while on the nest. raked together during yard cleanup. Mean- issue of Backyard Poultry.) Meaning: Danger is near. ing: Come see what I found. Air raid is a loud warning cry made Courtship croon is the low sound a Predator Alarms by a cock, or occasionally a hen, that cock makes when he circles a hen while Cocks and hens use a variety of spots the approach of a raptor. While flicking one wing against the ground. sounds to warn each other of potential making this sound, the chicken looks Sometimes a cock will attract a hen to danger. Different sounds are used to up with one eye while flattening its himself with the food call, even with no distinguish between possible danger and head and tail in a crouch to make itself food evident, and when a hen gets near immediate danger, and between a flying less conspicuous. Without looking up, enough he’ll start the courtship song and predator and a predator on the ground. the other chickens run for cover. False dance. Meaning: Let’s mate. Caution call consists of a few quick alarms occasionally occur, but too many Flying object alert is a sound a cock notes briefly repeated, made by a chicken false alarms produce the same results as makes when it sees a high-flying bird or that sees, or thinks it sees, a predator in the boy who cried “Wolf!” Although the airplane overhead. He makes this sound the distance. A house cat wandering by alarm may be triggered by anything sud- while turning his head to look upward might trigger this sound. It is not particu- denly appearing above—a leaf fluttering with one eye. Some of the other chickens larly loud or insistent, and doesn’t last down from a tree, a butterfly flitting by, may look up to see what he’s looking at. long unless the predator becomes a threat. or a wind-blown feather—chickens don’t Meaning: Something’s up there, but it Meaning: Keep an eye on that intruder. sound this alarm every time a tree loses doesn’t look dangerous. Alarm cackle is a more insistent a leaf. Crows, buzzards, and light planes Startled note is a short sound a cock caution call announcing the approach of frequently fly over our farm, and our makes when startled or surprised. The an apparent predator on the ground, or chickens learn to differentiate them from intensity of the sound varies, or the sound perhaps perched in a nearby tree or on a predatory hawks and eagles, although a may be repeated, depending on how fencepost. It consists of a brief series of suddenly appearing falling leaf or pass- startled the bird is. The sound might be short, sharp sounds followed by one loud ing crow still sometimes triggers an alert. triggered, for example, by asphalt shingles high-pitched sound, “Kukukukuh-KACK! Meaning: Take cover! heaved down by a roofing crew, or by a Kukukuh-KACK!” Other chickens take sudden nearby noise that disturbs a rooster notice and some may join the cackling Distress Calls at rest. Meaning: What was that? while stretching their necks to get a better A chicken that’s been caught raises a Crowing is an assertion of maleness. look and moving around in an agitated fuss. The noise may frighten a predator A rooster flapping its wings and stretch- way, as though not quite sure if or where into letting go, but also lets other chick- ing his neck in a mighty crow is akin to to run. These sounds increase in intensity ens know of the immediate danger. Other Precocial Peepers hickens, guinea fowl, turkeys, and other barnyard species each have their own distinct vocabularies. So how is it that guinea keetsC hatched by a chicken or turkey hen, for instance, so readily recognize the hen as mom? Any animal that can feed itself almost from the moment of birth is considered precocial, which certainly describes keets, as well as chicks, poults, and other barnyard hatchlings. The word precocial comes from the Latin word praecox, meaning mature before its time. A synonym for precocial is nidifugous—from the Latin word nidus, meaning nest, and fugere, meaning flee. The chief characteristic of precocial birds is they are spry soon after hatching, and therefore may easily get separated from their mom. They don’t have much time to learn to recognize the sound of her call, which is essential to their survival. A second important characteristic of precocial birds is the com- munication that goes on between a setting hen and the eggs beneath her as they are about to hatch. For several hours before the hatch, chicks-in-the-shell peep and the broody hen clucks. So even before These keets learned to understand turkey talk even the chicks hatch, they learn to recognize the sounds their mother before they hatched; they continue to listen to Mama, makes—even if she is speaking a foreign language. Born with the despite frequent attempts by adult guinea fowl to ability to quickly find their way back to mom, the precocial peepers take them away from the turkey hen. Photo by Gail are ready to hit the ground running. Damerow

22 Backyard Poultry chickens may come to the aid of the dis- tressed chicken, or may run and hide. Share Your “Fowl Distress squawks are loud, long, re- Communication” peated sounds made by a chicken that’s been captured, especially if it’s carried Experiences upside down by its legs. The squawk- We would like to hear from anyone ing often triggers a courageous cock, or who can identify (1) situations in sometimes a hen, to attack the person or which chickens or other poultry animal carrying the distressed chicken. have communicated or attempted to Meaning: Let go! communicate with humans and (2) Startled squawk is a moderately loud situations indicating that chickens cry of pain by a chicken that’s suddenly or other poultry think or plan into pecked by another chicken. Depending the future. on the pecked chicken’s temperament, If you have experiences in either and on how hard it’s been pecked, the of these situations, please share them squawk may be shrill or barely audible. with us. Provide as much detail as Bauemer observed that the squawk has possible, as well as an e-mail or a clear tone if the pecked bird’s lower phone number so we can inquire rank is well established, but is raw and further in the most efficient manner vibrating if the pecked chicken was re- possible. Photos or other illustra- cently defeated by the other or the peck- tions are also welcome. Your photos ing occurs accidentally at the feeder. He will be scanned and returned. likens the difference to the clear cry of Send your experiences to: a dog that’s been deliberately hurt by its [email protected], please say “Fowl owner, compared to growling mixed into Communication” in the subject line, the cry of a dog that’s hurt by a stranger. or by standard mail to BYP Fowl Meaning: Ow! Language, 145 Industrial Dr., Med- ford, WI 54451. Communicating with Chickens We hope to be able to share future Cocks and hens have a larger vo- articles on these experiences.—Ed. cabulary than that outlined above. Collias observed that, as a general rule, brief soft repetitive notes of low frequency are at- like a hen does, he must have been pretty traction calls. Loud harsh sounds with miserable. My husband fetched a ladder Kencove electric netting high frequencies are alarm cries. Harsh and tried to get him down from the tree, • Semi-rigid vertical stays reduce sagging sounds emphasizing low frequencies but he flew out of reach, then fluttered to • 3.5” spacing for optimum security are threat sounds. Special calls indicate the ground and ran into the dark. • Superior protection from predators • Built-in step-in posts for easy installation well-being, or mild disturbance and Next morning he was still there, al- frustration. though obviously colder and hungrier. I believe an extremely dedicated per- While my husband went to get a handful son with lots of time on his or her hands, of grain to see if we could coax him in, I and skill at imitating sounds (speaking stepped out the kitchen door and in my best other languages) could learn to commu- chicken voice hollered, “tuck-tuck-tuck.” nicate effectively with chickens. I mean The rooster stretched his neck to listen, then apart from normal chicken-keeper talk, raced toward the door just as my husband such as calling “chick, chick, chick” at came out in time to help me capture him treat time and having your chickens run and bring him in to warmth, shelter, and over for an anticipated snack. food. As I carried the rooster inside, my Several years ago, during a snow astonished husband turned to me and asked, storm, my husband and I discovered a “What did you say to him?!” Kencove strange cock in our backyard. We had no Gail Damerow is a well-known poul- Portable chargers idea where he came from, but in the snow try expert and the author of many books • Power adjustment knob (which is uncommon here in Tennessee) including these on poultry: Storey’s Guide • Voltage indicator light • Easy-to-carry handle he had no shelter and could find nothing to Raising Chickens, The Chicken Health • Battery operated, optional to eat. We tried to catch him, but he would Handbook, Your Chickens: A Kid’s Guide solar panel have nothing to do with us. to Raising and Showing, Barnyard in At night he hunkered in a tree, ex- Your Backyard and Fences for Pasture & Free Fence guide / catalog posed to the cold wind. Since a cock Garden. These books are available from 800-536-2683 www.kencove.com doesn’t tuck his head under his wing, our bookstore on page 28. February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 23 He a l t h : Th e An s w e r Ma n

Ro n Ke a n Ex t e n s i o n Po u l t r y Sp e c i a l i s t Un i v e r s i t y of Wi s c o n s i n -Ma d i s o n

of “fruits,” (fruit-shaped morsels), the ing the chickens, pecking feathers, etc. chicks didn’t show a preference for color. It probably depends somewhat on the In the case of colored insects (either live amount of space you give them. There or dead), they preferred the green over was some discussion about whether it the red. was better if the guineas had been raised If you have health related poultry I think it could be a fun experiment to with the chickens (from when they were questions you’d like answered, send try. One thing I’d suggest you consider is young). I believe the thinking was that placement of the feeders. It will be best to they would get along better if they had your questions to us at Backyard try and rotate the feeds among the feed- been raised together. Poultry, Attn: Answer Man, ers and feeder locations. It may be that Likewise, the geese might be some- 145 Industrial Dr., Medford, WI one feeder is in a more preferred position what territorial during breeding season, 54451 or e-mail to [email protected]. We (warmer, more light, less light, less draft, especially if they don’t have a lot of space. will try to include your questions in etc.) and that’s why they eat there. If you have plenty of ranging area, it an upcoming issue. Also, are you planning to color chick shouldn’t be a problem. crumbles? I think if you look at red foods, Geese and ducks can slop a lot of Are Chickens such as watermelon and tomatoes, then water and cause wet litter conditions. Wet Selective Eaters? it’s confounded with moisture levels, tex- litter isn’t good for the chickens, so that tures, maybe flavors (though these aren’t can be a concern. Again, given enough ’m doing my first science project. It is: usually thought to be very important to space, it should be okay. I’m not sure Do chickens prefer a certain colored chickens), etc. It would be difficult to where you are located, but this usually feed?I I’m having a bit of a problem find- say that color is the deciding factor in becomes a problem in the winter if they ing any research on it, although I have that case. Good luck with it, and I hope aren’t able to go outside very much. found that it looks like they like the color it goes well! The more space you can give them, red. I would really appreciate any info or the fewer problems you should have. input you would have about this project. Readers, do you have observations Thank you. Sincerely, regarding your birds’ feed preferences, Hannah O. via e-mail Swollen/Red Wattles on particularly regarding color? If so, send Rooster That sounds like a great project! them to us at Backyard Poultry, 145 esterday, my daughter and I noticed There have been a few studies done in Industrial Dr., Medford, WI 54451 or our Cochin rooster shaking his head. this area. Many were done quite a while e-mail [email protected]. Please enter “feed ThinkingY he was shaking off water from ago (1950s and 1970s). In looking at preferences” in the subject line.—Ed. his face I thought nothing of it, but today these, I think the general consensus is he was doing the same thing and we hadn’t that there are slight differences in color Housing Multiple Breeds gotten to his water just yet. We picked preference, but it’s difficult to say that one Together him up and his wattles are swollen and color is definitely preferred. For example, read in the Dec. 08/Jan. 09 issue that red. None of the other birds’ wattles look in one study, orange was preferred over there are some hazards to having tur- like this. I have spent the better half of blue, which was over white, which was keysI with chickens. I was just given three the night searching the Internet and found over red. In another, green was preferred, turkeys and they have been running with nothing that describes or offers a solution followed by red, yellow, blue, and then my flock of 50 chickens. I am planning a to this problem. natural feed color. In yet another, blue new goose/duck house and really wanted Do you have any ideas what this feed in a red feeder was preferred and a flock of guineas as well. Are there could be or caused from? We thank you red feed in a yellow feeder was least any dangers with running these birds for your time and consideration in this preferred. In all cases, the differences together? Thank you! Your magazine is matter. were not great, and all feeds seemed to the best! Tressa G., Wisconsin be eaten to some degree. Kamilla B. via e-mail In this study, they went a step fur- I think it’s likely one of two things. ther, and looked at insects and “fruits,” They should be okay. Some people One, he may have some respiratory each colored green or red. In the case have had trouble with guineas bully- problem. When chickens have something 24 Backyard Poultry in their throat (trachea or esophagus), they will often shake their heads in an effort to clear it. This could also cause the swelling of the wattles. I’d monitor the rest of the chickens to see that they don’t show similar symptoms. Somewhat more likely, I think, is that he has frostbitten the wattles. He may have gotten them wet while drinking, then they froze. If this is the case, the tissue will probably turn white, then black, then most of it will fall off. He will probably get over it, but he won’t look as nice. At this point, there’s probably not a lot you can do for him. Keep him warm and well fed, and try to prevent further damage. You might be able to apply some petroleum jelly to his comb and wattles, but don’t rub the affected area very much. This can cause further damage to the tissue. I imagine it is painful, and that’s why he’s been shaking his head. On a related matter, he will likely be infertile for a couple of weeks, if it is frostbite. Unless you’re hatching chicks now, it shouldn’t be a big problem. He should be back in good shape by spring, assuming he gets over the damage.

Randy Rooster presume this question has been dis- cussed before, but I’d like to have you addressI the issue of roosters running with the hens. I have about 50 hens and some years I have 2-4 roosters with them. How should one deal with the is- sue of the feathers being worn off the backs of the hens? Am I allowing too many roosters in the flock? I like having roosters around and I like the option of hatching chicks in the spring but I don’t like seeing the hens ravaged endlessly. Are the roosters less aggressive with the hens during the winter months? Should I separate the roosters until closer to the hatching season? Could I clip the leg spurs on the roosters if there is too much feather damage? Any suggestions on best practices when running roosters with the hens would be appreciated. Loren, Wisconsin

A ratio of 1 rooster to 12 hens is rec- ommended, so your numbers aren’t too high. The roosters do seem most randy during spring, but can still cause feather loss at all times. Hen aprons help, but 50 hens is a lot to cover.

February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 25 Trimming the spurs will help. Gail write with similar feathering issues, and THE FEATHERMAN PRO Damerow tells how in her book, Storey’s they didn’t have a rooster at all! Guide to Raising Chickens. There is also Finally, I have a suspicion that the Hands-free chicken picker gets a lot of information on trimming spurs on all-vegetable diets (with no animal pro- ‘em spankin’ clean in 20 seconds! the Internet. teins) may not be the best for feathering. It can also help to clip their claws. I can’t really point to any research about These can get a little long, especially in this, but I think it might be a problem. You the winter if they aren’t scratching in the might try to give them some dry cat food, ground as much. You can use a dog nail to see if this will help. Unfortunately, it clippers, or a large human nail clippers may not help until they molt again. for this. You could separate the roosters, Birds Pecking Insulation and only turn them out with the hens ’ve been worried about my small occasionally—a couple of days a week, or flock of hens getting too cold in their just a few hours each day. They don’t need unheatedI garden shed-turned-coop, so to be with the hens constantly to keep the I installed some foam insulation pan- Features: eggs fertile. This does require twice the els yesterday evening. This morning I • Tough, UV-stabilized, food-grade, plastic feeders, waterers, etc. and more care. noticed they had begun pecking at the tub and housing You might also watch that the other exposed foam. I duct taped over the • 1 HP motor, 10:1 speed reducer hens aren’t pecking at the feathers. It • Spray ring to wash feathers away exposed foam and left for work, hoping • Feather chute for tidy work area sounds like roosters, but I’ve had people that “out of sight, out of mind” would • Easy access, water-proof switch “Scalder, cones, & other equipment available.” Verm-X® Arrives in the U.S. ONLY $975! A Natural Parasite Control, with No Withdrawal Period Featherman Pluckers s more and more animal lovers and hobby farmers are looking for alter- www.featherman.net native therapies, the demand for herbal parasite control increases. One 760 SW 55th Ave., Jamesport, MO 64648 660/684-6035 email to:[email protected] company stands out from the crowd and is making a mark in this industry sectorA in the U.S. Verm-X, based in the UK, focuses on producing natural parasite control for animals, and is a market leader throughout Europe. With a reputation for adopting an eco-friendly approach to their business and setting environmental standards for others to follow, Verm-X has received numerous awards in recognition of their achievements. Verm-X was recognized for bringing an effective, natural and vitally important product range into a predominately chemical and man-made market. Their award was for their impact on farming and agriculture. In an age where people are implementing a more ecological philosophy to animal management and husbandry, Verm-X believes in providing the end user with a product that causes no harm to the environment. Verm-X is proving hugely popular throughout the UK and Europe with many smallholders and hobby farmers appreciating the natural factors and effort Verm-X has undertaken to provide users with a totally herbal and effective product, which fits in with natural and organic protocols. The 100% natural formulation used is beneficial to the well-being of animals and the land on which they graze. The herbal content of Verm-X controls all known intestinal par- asites while being gentle on the animal’s gut and digestive system– and, most importantly—there is no withdrawal period for live- stock or eggs: one can eat the eggs produced while Verm-X is being fed. Products are based on a recipe of 11 different herbs produced either as a dry blend or a macerated tincture, completely unadulterated and non-GM ingredients. Since launching Verm-X for horses in 2002, Philip Ghazala of Verm-X has developed a product range that caters to the hobby farmer and smallholder with horses, poultry, dogs, cats, sheep, goats, alpacas, llamas, rabbits, pigs, cows, game birds and caged birds. Verm-X is now available in the U.S. For further information contact Chris Dohogne of Verm-X USA office: 417-588-2077 or visit Verm-Xusa.com.

26 Backyard Poultry apply to these bird-brained darlings. Center for Poultry is to provide Not so. When I returned and checked on Our Vision: them this evening I discovered they had education, resources and training to equip people around continued their explorations in tasting the the world to raise standard bred poultry for sustainable insulation—even pecking a hole almost farming, exhibition, and preservation. completely through one panel. I immediately removed the panels and cleaned up any scraps. The hens • Resources & books seemed fine and were still interested • Educational seminars in their food and water, which they had • Poultry field days plenty of. I did an Internet search on this • Equipment product. According to the site I found there would be no harmful effects from • Youth leadership development ingesting this material (although it did • Judging clinics say this stuff wasn’t for consumption, • Breed referrals no surprise). Will the foam harm them? • Showmanship training I can only assume they ate what they • 4-H/FFA leader training pecked out of the foam boards. Will their eggs be safe to eat? I am planning • Poultry tours to discard their eggs for a few days, but how long would it take for what- For more information or to schedule an event contact: ever chemicals they’ve ingested to pass Jim Adkins, Poultry Specialist through their systems? International Center for Poultry Also, what level of cold can they PO Box 3067 • Sonora, California 95370 USA take? I live in Michigan’s lower penin- 209.890.5326 • [email protected] sula, zone 5. Their shed is enclosed and draft free, but it has still dropped down Strong supporter & promoter of the American Poultry Association, American to 20 degrees or lower in there some Bantam Association, National Poultry Improvement Plan, and the American mornings. Livestock Breeds Conservancy. Kelie, Michigan

I don’t know what it is about birds and foam insulation, but they seem to love it. If there’s any exposed, they will eat it. There is no evidence that it will harm them, nor is it digested. As the old say- ing goes, “All things will pass!” About the only way I know of to stop them is to completely cover it with something, so they don’t have access. I wouldn’t worry about it bothering the chicken, or the eggs. It does ruin your insulation, however! Chickens can certainly handle 20 degrees. As long as they are kept dry, they should be fine. Some roosters with tall combs may suffer from frostbite, however. An important thing to remember is that they need some ventilation. If moisture builds up in the air, then they will suffer more from the cold. Keep them well fed, and provide water for them at least once a day (preferably more often), and they should be fine. They can usually handle the cold a lot more than we want to give them credit for. I have seen chickens sleep in the trees, even on cold, snowy nights, so they can handle quite a bit.

February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 27 Backyard Poultry Bookstore For a complete listing of all books available from the Backyard Poultry Bookstore, visit our website at www.backyardpoultrymag.com. If you do not have Internet access, request a book catalog: write to Bookstore Catalog Request, 145 Industrial Dr., Medford, WI 54451 or call 800-551-5691.

Storey’s Illustrated Guide Storey’s Guide to Raising Chickens

to Poultry Breeds Ga i l Da m e r o w Ca r o l Ek a r i u s This informative book for both beginning Gorgeous, full-color photographs of more than 128 and experienced chicken owners covers birds. This definitive guide includes a brief history breed selection, building feeders and shel- of the breed, detailed descriptions of identifying ters, how to collect and store your eggs to characteristics and colorful photographs that celebrate maintain freshness (or hatching), maintain- the birds’ quirky personalities and charming good ing good flock health, raising broilers for looks. If it’s fowl facts and photos you want, you’ll meat, and showing your birds. 341 pages, find them all here!278 pages, $24.95 $18.95

How to Raise Chickens Storey’s Guide to Raising Ducks Everything You Need to Know Da v e Ho l d e r r e a d Ch r i s t i n e He i n r i c h s Everything you need to know to raise ducks This book is thoroughly modern and comprehensive. It delivers everything the subtitle promises: “Everything successfully. This comprehensive, fully you need to know—Breed guide and selection—Proper illustrated guide takes you through every care and healthy feeding—Building facilities and step of owning ducks. It provides the most fencing—Showing advice.” And it’s all presented in up-to-date information on various breeds the context of today’s small, backyard flock. How to (including rare breeds), feeding, housing, Raise Chickens might sound like a simple premise for a poultry book. But egg production, health care and more. 316 this one goes way beyond the how-tos. 191 pages, $19.95 pages, $18.95

Chicken Coops Storey’s Guide to Raising Poultry 45 Plans For Housing Your Flock Le o n a r d S. Me r c i a u d y a n g m a n J P An invaluable resource for everyone who Whether you keep one hen or 1,000 hens, you will raises poultry. It contains the most com- find a housing plan in this comprehensive book. prehensive and current information on Coops range from fashionable backyard structures to raising chickens, turkeys, waterfowl, and large-scale, movable shelters. You will also find plans game birds. Covers breed selection (for for converting trailer frames, greenhouses and sheds both meat and egg production), hatching, using recycled materials and simple ways to make housing and equipment, feeding, and rear- waterers, feeders and nestboxes. 166 pages, $19.95 ing. 343 pages, $18.95

Your Chickens Storey’s Guide to Raising Turkeys A Kid’s Guide to Raising and Showing Le o n a r d S. Me r c i a Ga i l Da m e r o w Complete how-to information on raising Your Chickens tells you everything that you need turkeys from young poults to delicious, to know about raising chickens, including informa- thick-breasted birds. Discussions on select- tion on choosing, purchasing, raising and showing all ing the right turkey for your flock, breeding types. Whether you want to raise chickens for fun or and management, processing, flock health, to make money, Gail Damerow gives you her friendly feeding and housing. Contains in-depth and wise advice on the subject. You will also find housing plan illustrations. Revised and important charts and checklists. 156 pages, $14.95 updated. 199 pages, $18.95

Raising Poultry on Pasture Pastured Poultry Profit$ Ten Years of Success Jo e l Sa l a t i n Ed i t e d b y Jo d y Pa d g h a m In this classic, Joel Salatin explains how Raising Poultry on Pasture: Ten Years of Success has to raise pastured poultry on pasture in over 130 illustrated articles. It’s divided into 14 chapters portable, bottomless pens and earn $20,000 and is fully indexed for ease of reference. The enormous in six month’s time. This hands-on book range of viewpoints and techniques make this book un- covers everything from taking care of day- like any other. Includes an overview of pastured poultry, old chicks to marketing your four-pound brooding, genetics, shelter designs, day-range systems, broilers. It will teach you about the benefits equipment, eggs on pasture, turkeys, ducks and other of pasture, choosing a breed, starting chicks, pen and pasture poultry, nutrition and health, processing, marketing, record-keeping, insurance details, processing, common problems, marketing, and more. and28 more. 246 pages, $39.95 334 pages, $30.00 Backyard Poultry Barnyard in Your Backyard Gardening with Guineas A Beginner’s Guide to Raising Chickens, Ducks, Geese, Rabbits, Je a n n e t t e S. Fe r g u s o n This book is a delightful and informative guide to Goats, Sheep, and Cattle raising guinea fowl on a small scale. It covers the life Ed i t e d b y Ga i l Da m e r o w of a guinea from egg to adult, including incubation, The essential primer for first-time farmers. Covering feeding, housing, training and common problems. Jeannette includes information on reasons for raising everything from which breeds of ducks are best for guinea fowl (they eat garden pests, ticks and hate snakes), what eggs and which are best for meat to how to buy a beef or dairy calf to where you need to know before you buy guineas, working with newborns to find a market for manure. This easy-to-use handbook teaches you how and young keets, and much more. 131 pages, $14.95 to operate a mini-farm for fun, profit or both. 408 pages, $24.95 Chicken Tractor Living with Chickens b y An d y Le e & Pa t Fo r m a n Ja y Ro s s i e r This revolutionary, practical book will delight Tens of thousands of people in all areas of the country enjoy gardeners and poultry growers everywhere. A raising chickens, whether for food or companionship. Of chicken tractor is a bottomless, portable pen that course, you may want to read Living With Chickens just for can be moved wherever you need help in the gar- the sheer joy of it. Straightforward prose and illustrations den. Chickens aerate the soil while eating pests and give any future chicken farmer the tools he or she needs weeds, then fertilize the beds with manure. Best of all, they provide to get started. Jay Rossier draws on his own experiences the great tasting eggs and meat not available in any grocery store. and those of his fellow poultrymen in discussing everything from feed- Chicken Tractor shows how building a better garden can result in ing and housing the birds to keeping marauders from invading the coop. twice as much food from half as much land. You’ll find complete Personal anecdotes, interesting facts, and lush, full-color photographs instructions for building and using pens, tips on breed selection, plus round out this indispensable guide. 203 pages, $16.95 money-making ideas. 318 pages, $22.95 The Mating and Breeding The Chicken Health Handbook of Poultry Ga i l Da m e r o w In this must-have reference for the small flock owner, Ha r r y M. La m o n & Rob R. Sl o c u m Gail discusses the problems and diseases common to This book, first published in 1920, and now back in chickens of all breeds and all ages. It also explains how print, outlines all you need to know to become an ac- to hatch healthy chicks, provide proper nutrition, fight complished breeder. It includes manipulating shape and parasites, spot diseases and infections in their early color combinations, preparing birds for weather, encouraging the juici- stages, protect the flock from predators and building est meat and largest eggs and much more. Authors Lamon & Slocum safe houses and yards. Practical charts help pinpoint common symp- toms and causes of disease. An extensive listing provides quick access were the Senior Poultrymen at the Bureau of Animal Industry for the to treatments and remedies for everything from poor egg production to USDA. 341 pages, $14.95 crooked toe syndrome. Generously illustrated. 344 pages, $19.95 The Farmstead Egg Cookbook The Book of Geese a Complete Guide to Raising the Home Flock Te r r y Go l s o n This is not just another egg cookbook. This one stresses Da v e Ho l d e r r e a d farmstead eggs. It is written by professional chef and One of the classics of waterfowl management. An cooking instructor, Terry Golson, who also keeps hens easy-to-read book with good illustrations and dia- in her backyard. She knows the differences between grams, takes you from the egg through incubation, factory farm eggs and farmstead eggs and differences gosling stage, feeding, housing, mating, health and that affect cooking. The 70 recipes are simple and quick, but delicious. physical problems. It covers all breeds of geese Even though some have a touch of elegance, it’s a down-home, peasant with descriptions of the traits unique to each breed. This really is the gourmet kind of elegance. 124 pages, Hardcover, $16.95 complete guide to raising the home flock. 209 pages, $18.95

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boost the amount of “free feed” the chick- ens glean for themselves if given access to biologically diverse environments. I have written about my use of a heavily mulched “feeding yard” onto which I release my winter flock. (“Poul- try in the Greenhouse,” April/May 2007 issue.) This year I’ve been expanding that concept into the growing season. Having seen what the birds can do to an eight-inch layer of hay over the course of a winter (reducing it to fine, fertile compost), I wondered if the birds might take on the job of composting during the rest of the year as well. Since early spring, therefore, I dumped all the or- ganic “wastes” we would normally use to assemble a compost heap—corn and sunflower stalks and other crop plant Lazy-gardener composting relies on chickens to do the shredding and residues; spoiled hay; “stable sweep- turning. ings” from a neighbor’s horse barn; grass clippings; prunings from flower beds; Ha r v e y Us s e r y autumn leaves; etc.—onto a ranging yard w w w .t h e m o d e r n h o m e s t e a d .u s outside one of my chicken coops, sur- © 2009 Te x t & Ph o t o s rounded by an electric net fence. Unlike Connected to our six-hen flock’s coop is an 8' x 4' run completely surrounded by 2" when assembling a compost heap, I didn’t x 4" welded wire. (This includes the floor of the run, to exclude digging predators.) bother balancing nitrogenous and carbo- In this run we put everything that gets weeded from the garden, thinnings, some naceous components, even moistening of leaves, ears of corn that have been molested by raccoons, grass clippings, kitchen the materials, or turning the heap—I just wastes—you get the idea. After each layer, I scatter oyster shell. Our hens stay very kept dumping on the new material as it entertained digging through their sometimes three-foot-deep pile of goodies. The became available. I put a flock of 14 lay- worms and bugs come naturally… About once every month we transfer our new fertile ers into that coop, with constant access soil to the regular compost pile. Our garden loves it. I love not stirring or messing to the debris heap. with the compost pile. Our yolks are school-bus orange-yellow and delicious. For a couple of months the birds Nancy Muller, Dalton, Pennsylvania showed little interest in the pile. But as it became more biologically active—with Chicken-Powered Composting of “food residuals” from restaurants and pillbugs and crickets, earthworms and Readers of my articles in Backyard institutions. Perhaps we can take hints slugs, to say nothing of the burgeoning Poultry know that the key to my ap- from Carrie Shepard, quoted in the same trillions of microbes—the birds started proach to poultry husbandry—indeed, to article, and from Nancy Muller, quoted spending more time on it, scratching bus- the whole homesteading enterprise—is above, to fashion a single backyard project ily to find interesting things to eat. By the integration of individual elements into that will, like VCC’s: recapture the fertility end of the season, the lower level of the broader patterns, in which one project in our flock’s droppings for soil-building heap was finished compost. serves several needs. I get excited by an applications, while preventing their mo- integrated natural system like Karl Ham- bilization as runoff pollution; utilize the Benefits mer’s (of Vermont Compost Company)— constant scratching of the flock to achieve Compost: Every gardener knows that see “The Challenge of High Feed Costs,” work we would otherwise have to do a compost heap will process faster if Aug/Sep 2008 issue. But most of us ourselves, in the process engaging them in the materials are shredded—the smaller backyard flocksters are not going to base interesting activities in lieu of the boredom the pieces, the more surface area for the our feeding programs on large deliveries of confinement; enhance flock health; and “microherd” to inhabit and work. But a 30 Backyard Poultry “I am delighted that my birds are willing to do work that this lazy old gardener would rather shun.”

power shredder is expensive, high main- tenance, wasteful of energy, and torture to the nervous system. The alternative to shredding is to turn the heap laboriously, thus urging on the micro-community. A lazy old gardener like me, seeking an easier way out, is thrilled that shredding the materials in a heap—all day, non- stop—is what my hard-working flock loves most to do. As the chickens shred the material and boost microbial decomposition, the more finely shredded material sifts toward the bottom, with the coarser ma- terial remaining on top as a protective cover. When we need to harvest compost for the garden, we can fork the coarse ma- terial aside and leave it for the chickens to continue working. Or we can simply scoop it all up: As we apply it, the finer portion will again sift to the bottom, with the coarser material remaining on top to

February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 31 help keep the lower level moist and underfoot, impossible for the birds to more biologically active. work, lacking the oxygen for active If the parent material of high- decomposition. If you live in an area carbon components (such as leaves) with a great deal of rain, you might is still recognizable, however finely even want to put an open-sided roof shredded, it is probably better not over the run, to help keep the com- to incorporate the compost into post litter drier and looser. If there the soil—the resulting excess of are sufficient coarse components, carbonaceous litter, not yet broken however, the heap is not likely to down, might rob the soil of nitrogen mat tightly and resist working by needed by plant roots. But I practice the busy fowl. mostly no-till gardening anyway, so am usually more inclined to lay the Opening up new garden ground: compost down on the untilled sur- Again, I am delighted that my birds face, and cover with a mulch. are willing to do work that this lazy old gardener would rather shun. Manure management: One of the Turning over established sod with least pleasant and most problematic hand tools strains the back; and it’s aspects of poultry husbandry is deal- been years since I kept a shrieking, ing with the poops. Inside the coop, nerve-numbing power tiller in the we exert a lot of effort to clear out stable. If I lay down a heavy debris and compost accumulated manure. field, however, it smothers the sod, Outside, the droppings can run off Two of Harvey’s garden beds covered with litter/ the chickens till it in, and in the pro- as a source of pollution of water compost from the chicken-powered compost heap, cess turn the organic duff into a fer- systems. But releasing chickens onto and planted to cover crops (cowpeas on the left, tile mulch/compost. In many soils, a heap of organic “wastes” resolves buckwheat in the center) in preparation for fall this preparation can be followed by crops. all these vexatious issues: They simply raking out the litter into an deposit the droppings where they even cover, and planting. will be processed; work them into the Applications heap, where they help fuel the population The improved chicken run: Readers of Fighting the jungle: Ditto for heavily growth of earthworms and the microherd, my articles know that pasturing my flock weed-grown areas: In lieu of “fighting speed decomposition; and ensure that the in the growing season is fundamental to the jungle” ourselves, why not cover fertility is bound up in the decomposition my husbandry. But many flock owners the area with our compost materials and products of the heap rather than running do not have the option of pasturing, and send in the chickens until the weeds are for the sea—all with absolutely no ad- are forced by circumstances to confine destroyed, their roots are opening up ditional labor input from us. their flock to a static chicken run. The channels in the soil as they decompose, most valuable application of the chicken- and their seeds have been eaten by the Free natural feed: As the heap becomes powered compost heap for them is the birds? more alive, there are more sources of high opportunity for creating a much more quality, nutrient dense natural feeds avail- wholesome and pleasant, non-polluting, A springtime feast: There is no soil care able to the flock—earthworms, slugs, fertility-capturing alternative—and one strategy more critical than keeping the snails, pill bugs, etc. As the experiment which saves on the feed bill as well. I garden well covered over winter, either with my chicken-power compost heap have never seen a static run which would with a cover crop or a heavy mulch. progressed, I found that they spent more not have been immeasurably improved Since the fall is a time we accumulate of their time working the debris field, if all the homestead’s organic “wastes” materials for composting anyway—corn while ignoring feed still in the feeder. were used to make a heavy mixed mulch stover, spent crop plants, autumn leaves, over the yard, applying in effect the same etc.—why not use those materials as a Health enhancement: Metabolites of the sort of “deep litter over an earth floor” heavy mulch on the garden? Except in microbes driving decomposition in the that I find the key to best manure manage- the harshest climates, the soil life under heap include vitamins B12 and K. Fungal ment inside the henhouse. (See “When the mulch remains far more active than filaments growing in the heap—avidly Life Gives You Lemons ...” in the Dec in bare, frozen soil. eaten by the chickens—may provide po- 2006/Jan 2007 issue.) In the late winter/early spring, before tent immune-enhancing and antibacterial My only caution: The make-up of the the first crops go in, the flock can be compounds. And don’t forget the “mental debris field should be diverse enough to released onto the garden for a feast of health” factor: Unquestionably, the flock prevent matting down and/or becoming germinating weed seeds, and soil animals was more happy and content because of waterlogged. I once spread fresh grass like earthworms and pill bugs. Coarser the sheer entertainment value of their clippings several inches deep over the material in the litter will have softened foraging field, in contrast to the stress and entire chicken yard. The result was a in the winter rains, and be more easily boredom of close confinement. nightmare: a slick, putrid, anaerobic mess shredded by the chickens. The resulting 32 Backyard Poultry As the chickens work the heap, the bottom layer becomes a “bank” of finished compost, from which we can make withdrawals as needed.

material can be simply raked onto the garden beds as a nutrient-rich mulch, and early crops planted. In my experience, it takes slug and snail populations months to recover from the flock’s aggressive pre-season foraging. (Following such exposure to raw manure, a 60-day period is advised before harvest of crops in close contact with the soil, such as lettuce, spinach, and radishes.)

Dueling gardens: If you have room for two garden spaces, practice truly low- labor compost-making in place: Garden in one space this season, while throwing all weeds, garden residues, lawn clip- pings, autumn leaves, etc. into the other. Let the flock shred and compost them, and leave the residue in place. Next year, switch garden and chicken run. If you have a garden and a chicken run of about the same size, you already have the makings of such a dueling- gardens setup. The ultimate refine- ment would be siting the chicken coop between them, with doors on opposite sides opening into the two spaces as needed. Harvey Ussery and his wife Ellen live on 2-1/2 acres near the Blue Ridge in Northern Virginia. They produce much of their own food—including all their eggs and dressed poultry from a mixed pas- tured flock—and offer their homestead as model and inspiration to others aspiring to the homesteading life. Harvey has written for Mother Earth News, Countryside & Small Stock Journal, and publications of American Pastured Poultry Producers Association. Visit his website at www.themodernhome- stead.us.

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Backyard Poultry.indd 2 12/24/08 9:46:49 AM Re c o r d k e e p i n g : Pr e s e r v e Yo u r Ex p e r i e n c e & He r i t a g e in a Po u l t r y Jo u r n a l

Ca l e b Wa r n o c k Keep it short and simple. Over the years Ut a h I have found that I rarely need to write more than a few sentences on any given “Woke to two pullets gone, taken by day. Short entries do the trick. a predator who dug a hole under the coop on the east side. The chicks were Jot down what works—and what a Buff Orpington and a Barred Rock.” doesn’t. My notes from June, 2007, - July 27, 2007 include these: “I got chicks from Inter- mountain Farmers – assorted bantams, eeping a journal of my chickens Buff Orpingtons and Barred Rocks. We may be the best poultry-keeping put them in the ‘chick’ coop and some- decision I ever made. It is a thing killed four of them overnight. I working database of egg counts, broody sandbagged the coop and bought four K more. Two more were killed the next hens, harvested animals and predator deaths. I have pages of notes about suc- night so I’ve been posting Sharky (our cesses and failures. My poultry journal Buff Orpington and Barred Plymouth dog) out there every night and no more makes it easy to document everything Rock chicks roam the backyard. dead chicks! Getting the chicks this late about my flock, and what they have worked well because it was hot enough taught me, in one place. In my poultry my coop are all adults, but memories for them to stay outside even the first journal, I jot down information about rush back when I look at photos of them night, instead of in the house.” egg counts, odd eggs, eating habits, as chicks, playing with my grandsons. I experimental feed, broodiness, the first once took photos only for fun, but today I Make it yours. I keep a separate per- roost of maturing hens, and even such try to document our flock every month or sonal journal, but that doesn’t mean things as temperatures or when the coops two. In addition to offering a comprehen- my poultry journal is without personal were built or equipment added. Here are sive visual record, it’s just fun! If you are experiences. Looking back, the personal tips for preserving your own poultry not inclined to write, a journal of dated entries are the most fun to read. For experiences on paper: photos is an easy way to keep records of example: “Feb. 3, 2006: Manny (our your flock, your coop system, feeding, son-in-law) killed a rooster. Charmayne Take photos. The hens and roosters in harvesting and poultry health. cooked it.” And May 14, 2006: “I forgot to plant the tomatoes I bought yesterday at Intermountain Farmers Association, of all places, while picking up feed corn for the chickens.” And here is one of my favorite entries, from Jan. 1, 2008: “Something spectacular happened today. I found six eggs in the nest box – our first-ever winter eggs. An auspicious beginning to the new year.”

Sketch in details. While it’s true that rough drawings add visual interest, a quick illustration now and then also helps document your poultry history. For ex- ample, on the night our first-ever broody hen’s eggs began hatching out, I sketched the line one chick had pecked across the exact center of the egg. If you are artistic, put in a few quick watercolor studies of your chickens or even their tracks in the The Warnock chickens are free-ranged, here wandering under apples trees. mud of your backyard pond. 36 Backyard Poultry Discover 100s of Beautiful Pigeon Breeds in our Full Color Glossy Both the larger coop (left) and “chick” coop are visible. The mature chickens were Magazine... mixed-breed “gifts” from a neighbor. The Buff Orpington pullets are on the ground. purebred Specifics count. A journal is a reposi- had it not been recorded in his hand. A PIGEON tory for years of experience that would poultry journal is a place to catalog the U.S. Subscription $35 per year for otherwise be lost to time. I can jot notes heritage information future generations 6 bimonthly issues • Sample Copy $9 on what feeds I’m using, when feed is may need, whether because of a need to PUREBRED PIGEON switched seasonally, how I’ve dealt with return to the land or simply because they P.O. Box 2089, Goodlettsville, TN 37070 Call us at 615-851-9674 or e-mail predators, or the consumption rate of want to. And, especially with photos, it [email protected] additives such as oyster shells or granite can be an unusual conversation piece or pebbles. I can track food prices over time, family history item that may spur the www.purebredpigeon.com allowing me to figure my cost per egg or interest of the rising generation. Great Gift Idea! animal harvested if I wish. If you have Membership in Guinea Fowl International! a mobile coop, you can document where Keep a combination garden/poultry Guinea Fowl International Assn. it’s been, and for how long. If your coops journal. Branch out. It’s not just the are stationary like mine, you can track chickens that benefit from having a written $20 membership - Benefits include: • Welcome packet when they were last cleaned. The poultry record over time. Expanding your poultry • Care and feeding brochure journal is also a great place to catalog journal to include garden activity allows • Annual educational seminars anything new you’ve learned from oth- you to catalog not only the first spring egg • Be in touch with other guinea ers with chicken-keeping experience, or but also the first crocuses or when your fowl owners and experts. information gleaned from books or the Veronica geraniums got sunburned. You many Backyard Poultry articles worth can record maps of your garden plot from www.guineafowlinternational.org remembering for future reference. year to year to guide your crop rotation, Guinea Fowl and even press a fall leaf or three. International Assn. Preserve the homestead heritage. The 2812 FM 987 last generation with significant poultry- Avoid journal guilt. There are whole Kaufman, TX 75142 keeping experience in America is the seasons missing from my poultry journal, World War II generation, whose members and that’s okay. Sometimes I’m not in the grow more sparse with each passing day. mood, and at the busiest times, weeks go FREE Best prices on: shipping on orders I am convinced that keeping notes on our by without entries. For me, the journal is over $50! chickens may be more than a hobby – it good enough if I write when I can. • New Egg Cartons may help save our agricultural heritage. • Incubators and Parts • Brooders More and more people are coming to la- Do it with joy. Whether in the barnyard, • Pasture Pens • Equipment ment the knowledge, breeds, and wisdom my poultry journal, my marriage or my • Medications • Nests • Leg Bands won through experience that we have al- career, I try to remember that if I’m not • Vitamins • Books ready lost. My grandfather, Phil Nielson, enjoying myself, I’m not doing it right. I and much more!! Call or visit us online at: kept a farm diary every day of his work- keep a poultry journal so I can look back on ing life, cataloging simple information what I’ve accomplished, catalog my ideas, 812-603-7722 that now not only represents my heritage, successes and photos in one place, and have www.poultrymansupply.com but is a working history of an age gone by, a tangible chart of my personal and poultry Poultryman’s Supply Company knowledge that could never be recreated progress. Happy chicken journaling! PO Box 612 • Columbus, IN 47202

February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 37 Br e e d s : Nankin Bantams

A fine example of a single comb rooster. Nankins can have either a single comb or rose comb.

Something Old, Something New

Do n Ca b l e , Ca l i fo r n i a Nankin, though still uncommon in many parts of the United Ph o t o s b y Ma r y An n Ha r l e y , So u t h Ca r o l i n a States, is no longer threatened by extinction and is sponsored by its own breed club with members in this country, Canada or those interested in the history of poultry keeping and and Great Britain. especially bantam breeds, consider the Nankin bantam. Formerly known as the common yellow bantam in 17th Nankin History centuryF Britain, this sprightly little bantam, often described Known and kept for its ability to hatch and carefully rear by writers of the day, and for the following three centuries, as the young of partridges on the country estates of rural Britain, extinct or nearly so, is very much alive and thriving in certain it is likely this highly developed trait is key to the Nankin poultry yards of America. Still considered a rare breed, the bantam’s survival over the centuries, in spite of its often- predicted demise. In fact, this superior ability to incubate and brood is a strong genetic factor called upon even today by those who choose to hatch and raise their Nankins naturally. In addition, the Nankin was used as a breeding prototype in the early development of other bantam breeds in Britain, such as game bantams and the Sebright bantam by Sir John Sebright, around the year 1800. Interest in Nankins here in the early 1960s was largely created by the late, prolific poultry writer Leonora Hering, of Saratoga, California in her articles found in American Bantam Association (ABA) publications of that time. This interest eventually resulted in the importation of Nankin hatching eggs from the flock of Margaret Peters of England in 1963 by John Dempsey, then of Connecticut. Birds from this source eventu- ally found their way to other interested American bantam fan- ciers who have attempted to meet the challenge required in the specifics outlined in the ABA Standard for the Nankin bantam. Within the last decade, heightened interest and increased Nankin rooster with rose comb. numbers of Nankin fanciers has resulted in the creation of 38 Backyard Poultry Nankin pullets all fluffed up for the night.

Secretary, Mary Ann Harley, has won Champion Nankin two years running with the same bird in stiff competition at our National Meet in Indianapolis, Indiana (74 Nankins competing), and again the following year in Columbus, Ohio. This tiny hen is an example of breed vitality in a bird about a pound in weight. She continues to produce young equal in vigor to herself. Nankins are small, but sturdy. For years relegated to obscurity in the backwater of the poultry fancy and frequently predicted to be so few in num- ber as to be ap- proaching extinc- Nankin hens are prolific layers, and excellent foster mothers. tion, the Nankin Their eggs are cream to light beige in color. bantam has come virtually out of a breed club. The Nankin Club of America was established nowhere to a re- in 2006 to meet this need and support this rare, old bantam surgence on two breed. The breed and the club are doing very well. continents. Pro- vided a club with Standards international sup- The Nankin is of the black-tailed red color pattern. Males port, the Nankin are of a ginger red color with orange red hackle and saddle with is now taking its black restricted to the tail and within the wings. Females are place among the of a shade lighter overall, again with black toward the end of more common the tail feathers and within the wings. Nankins can be found breeds with a new with either a single or rose comb. Face and lobes are red, while life and unlimited shanks, feet and toes are slate. The ABA Standard calls for possibilities. Sydney & Brayden Ross show how child- weights of 24 oz. cocks, 22 oz. hens, 22 oz. cockerels and 20 For more friendly Nankins are. oz. pullets, making Nankins one of the smaller bantam breeds, information on with weights similar to Old English Game bantams. A complete the Nankin breed, Nankin description can be found in the ABA Standard. contact Mary Ann Harley, Secretary/ Practical Backyard Breed Treasurer, Nankin Not only are Nankins of interest historically, they are a Club of America, practical backyard breed able to hatch and rear their own 195 Macedonia young and provide this service for other breeds and game Rd., N. Augusta, birds as well. They are a calm, personable breed—curious, S.C. 29860; e- sociable and well-suited for those interested in showing their mail: maryann4@ birds in county fairs or in major poultry shows. Their easy- bellsouth.net or going nature makes them a natural for adult or youngsters visit the website: Hatch day. Most Nankin chicks are born to exhibit, especially for an activity like 4-H showmanship. www.nankinban- with a black dot on their head that fades They have great staying power as show birds. Our club tams.com. as they mature.

February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 39 Turkens or Naked Necks? According to the APA’s American Turkens: Birds of Standard of Perfection, the breed name is Naked Neck, but many of us also know them as Turkens. a Different Feather Naked Necks were developed from the desire for a smooth-skinned, dressed fowl. Their bare areas made plucking easier and quicker, as they have less than half the feathers of other compa- rable fowl. They are good layers of brown eggs and tolerate cold climates well. Standard weights are 8-1/2 lbs. for cocks, 6-1/2 lbs. for hens, 7-1/2 lbs. for cockerels and 5-1/2 lbs. for pullets.—Ed.

Blackie was one in a pen of three first-place winning Turkens at the 2006 fair open class. This photo was taken when she was a spring Turken.

Ca s e y Lo v e My little ones arrived March 19th and Ag e 10 29th this year, and they are thriving very This is Big Red; it’s not hard to see how Mi c h i g a n well and getting big. he got his name! He is from our first Turkens are an odd bird to look at, batch of Turkens. These birds grow to an am a member of the Rural Routers and many people are baffled when they impressive size. Though they are not the 4-H group. I raise a breed of chick- see them. Though their name is deceiving prettiest birds, they are awesome. ens called Turkens at my Papa and they aren’t any kind of turkey, they are all Grandma’sI house. chicken. The origin of the Turken is fuzzy: zero feathers on their necks and sparse on Turkens are an unusual breed but they have been tracked to Europe where their vent (bottoms). As they grow, most very great birds to handle, work with, they are called Transylvania Naked Necks. of the males will grow “beards” mid neck and show. It’s again Turken time for me. And that’s no fib; they are hatched with and are quite impressive. The females can also grow these beards; I’ve had both sexes with these beards. The photos in this article are from my 2006 first prize open class pen that consisted of a very large white, black and yellow rooster, and buff and purple/ black hens. When you work with these animals they always end up with names, and these were Big Boy, Blackie, and Buffy. This pen was unique, and I feel the judges saw how beautiful these birds were and how easy they were to handle, despite their size. Like any chicken, the males can be very territorial about their girls. It’s best to have more hens than roosters with this breed. (One attacked my grandma! She’s okay though.) Some things about my Turkens are This fine-looking cowboy is author Casey Love. Casey received an A grade on his pen of that they love sparkly things and adore Black Frizzle Cochins and was awarded 5th place showmanship at the Isabella County my mom’s rings. They love to be burped Fair in Michigan 2006. He is a member of the Rural Routers 4-H group in Michigan. at, meaning they make a noise when con- 40 Backyard Poultry AmericAn Poultry AssociAtion

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JOIN TODAY-Dues: $15 per year or $40 for 3 years Big Boy was the king of our first batch of Junior members $10 per year Turkens. I took him to 2006 fair and he with two lovely hens (a black one and a American Poultry Association buff one) won first place in open class. PO Box 306, Burgettstown, Pa. 15021 While the necks are bare of feathers, the males, and some females, will grow a Phone: 724-729-3459 - Email: [email protected] “beard” in the middle of it. Website: amerpoultryassn.com

tent and it sounds like buuurp, buuurp, buuurp. They can get sunburned, so if you decide to get some make sure they have shelter from the sun! And they aren’t bad eating either. We had nice, big roaster chickens, and lots of delicious homemade chicken soup this winter!

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February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 41 Ar o u n d t h e Wo r l d : U.S. Poultry Enthusiasts Share Their Australian Poultry Tour Adventures July 26 – Aug. 11, 2007

Je a n e t t e Ad k i n s Suchy, Washington (long time 4-H buddies); Devon Graham So n o r a , Ca l i fo r n i a and his uncle, Ben Porter, Kentucky, Steve Jefferson and Mari- anne Arnell, California (our tour physician, just in case!); Pat n the summer of 2007, a group of people from across the Keena and Carol Babcock, Wisconsin; and Neil Gray, Alabama U.S. went on a tour to Australia. We went to see the poultry (our resident stand-up comic). at the owners’ homes, attended poultry shows, and saw the DAY 2 (Friday, July 27) wonderfulI sites. Here is my journal of the 17-day tour. “Today” essentially didn’t happen. Late into the evening and well into our 14-hour flight across the Pacific, I wandered DAY 1 (Thursday, July 26) back to the galley to visit with the flight attendants. They were G’day from San Francisco! This afternoon we all flew in in good spirits and welcomed my inquiry. “So,” I asked, “tell from around the country and met up in California to catch a me, if you depart on July 26th and land on July 28th, and your late-night flight out to Sydney. Tour participants included Jim birthday happens to fall on July 27th … you don’t actually get and Jeanette Adkins, California, (tour hosts); Brian and Ruth any older, right?” The flight attendant joked, “Yeah, I’ve stayed Decker, Washington (Brian is one of this year’s judges); Erik 26 for quite a while now.” Nelsen, Maine (an- DAY 3 (Saturday, July 28) other of this year’s We arrived in Sydney 6:20 a.m. local time, feeling extremely judges); Gina Crosby “grungy” and a tad tired. We tried to hurry our way through and her children, Car- security and customs to catch our connecting domestic flight on rie, 15 and Chris, 13, Quantas up to Brisbane. Brian (D) and Gene were excited to get Washington; Gene a free shoe-shine (wash) courtesy of the Australian customs staff Allen, Missouri (this and Jim had to explain his two cases of Vet Rx to the agent who year’s resident coun- was concerned about the alcohol content. After a short delay, selor); Amy Durbin, we bounced our way up to Brisbane. Owen Glover, our first Oregon, and Sara Kel- national host, met us there, helped us secure our two touring len, Iowa (former col- buses, and guided us to our hotel. We enjoyed a delightful “tea” Author Jeanette Adkins, and lege roommates); We- (supper) with his wonderful family and several friends from husband, Jim were the poultry tour zley Garth and Brian his poultry club. We were all thrilled with the local hospitality planners. and fell into bed early, exhausted. DAY 4 (Sunday, July 29) We left early for Rosewood to attend our first poultry show hosted by the Rosewood Poultry Club of Queensland. Jim judged the soft-feather large fowl, and Brian Decker judged the hard-feather bantams. We all checked out the local birds, then Wesley and Brian Suchy toured the local hamlet, and Ruth caught a train for a solo adventure up to the next historic town, Ipswich. Later, on our drive to Warwick, Ruth filled us in on local history. A highlight of our drive was sighting 10 sulphur-crested cockatoos proudly displaying their head-gear in a nearby “paddock” (pasture). A few of us caught a quick glimpse of two fawn-colored kangaroos as we drove down the left-hand side of the road. We ended the day with a bountiful Chinese dinner in Warwick. DAY 5 (Monday, July 30) We began our day in Warwick with a typical Australian The complete tour group of 20 people at the home of Brian Weis “brekky” of eggs, bacon, and get this … spaghetti! Gene, a high in Uralla, New South Wales, Australia. school counselor, visited a local high school right next door to 42 Backyard Poultry our hotel. He enjoyed touring a typical Australian secondary school, grades 9 – 12, attendance 980. Some of the rest of the Birds of Australia group did a little “walk about” through Warwick, visiting local museums, churches, cottages, and coffee shops. We departed Warwick around noon, heading for Armidale, New South Wales. En route, we found a charming winery, then paused in Tenterfield for lunch and a walk around town. We drove on to Armidale, arriving late. DAY 6 (Tuesday, July 31) Our first day in Armidale dawned crisp and cold, everything covered with a thin veil of frost. We tanked up on hot drinks and hopped into our two buses for a quick jaunt out to Brian Weis’s home in Uralla. Brian is the president of the Australian Indian Game Club, and an avid breeder of … what else … Indian Game! (Cornish). Brian Decker, one of our judges, said that Mr. Weis’s birds were excellent in color and type, “Probably the best I’ve seen since the 60s.” Jim was taken with the broad Jim Adkins (right) and Ray Conner, with U.S. Judge Eric stance of the birds as well as their beautiful heads. We also had Nelson behind. Jim is holding a Black Australorp. This is the opportunity to see some good Australian Black Langshans Australia’s very own breed, which originated there. The breed raised by Brian’s neighbor, Doug. These two fine gentlemen is absolutely gorgeous and poultry shows in Australia are have over a century of breeding experience between them and full of them. Ray is the best-known breeder and expert on it was an honor and thrill to meet them. this breed. He recently wrote a book on the breed. He is also Next, we headed to Grahame Sharpe’s place to see his known as one of the best judges throughout Australia. large fowl White Leghorns, Old English Game and Red Pyle Modern Game bantams. Unfortunately, Grahame was out of town on business, but he graciously allowed us to wander his Some of the best Light place, taking in his great birds and nice incubation facility. Sussex in the entire Ben Porter especially appreciated the coloring of Grahame’s country bred by Peter females, stating, “These have the salmon breast coloring (that Smith of Tamworth, the APA Standard calls for), that we don’t see in shows in the New South Wales. U.S. anymore…I haven’t seen one in 20 years.” Look closely at the Once in Tamworth, we met up with Peter Smith for a “coun- type and color of these birds! Excellent. ter lunch” at a local pub. Several in the group claimed that it was the best meal they’d had so far. Later, a quick drive took us to Peter and Rhonda’s place where we enjoyed not only his Black Pekin bantams (Cochins), and large fowl Light Sussex, but his remarkable thoroughbreds and an amazing flock of wild pink and gray Galahs. (These beautiful birds, while impressive An outstanding Buff to us, are actually a nuisance to local farmers). Peter has an Cochin (they call them Pekins in Australia) at the extensive facility, and has also been developing very good Buff farm of Chris Hardman. Sussex for some 10 years. Cochins in Australia are We took a brief jaunt up to the lookout overlooking the as good as any in the charming town of Tamworth before our drive back to Armidale. world! Fell asleep that night with visions of “chooks” (Australian for chicken) dancing in our heads. Day 7 (Wednesday, August 1) We began our day with a trip out to Keith Dubber’s home. Keith is the long-time secretary/treasurer of the Pekin Club of Australia. He raises many varieties of Pekin bantams, Old Eng- lish, and some of the “most incredible” large fowl Columbian This Dark Cornish Wyandottes! The wind was absolutely whipping around our large fowl cock is owned and bred by heads at Keith and Jannette’s place; after a quick visit around Brian Weis of Uralla, the sheds, Chris and I ended up back in the van where it was New South Wales, warm! Those hardier souls/die-hard fanciers took their time, President, Indian Game even in the wind. Club of Australia. An After shivering our way back to the vans, we headed off to outstanding bird! Chris and Dianne Hardman’s place to check out his 12 varieties of Pekin bantams. His blues were, to quote one of our judges, “Outstanding!”

February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 43 After lunch, some of us visited Mr. Hardman’s (Sr.) private Judging in Australia collection of vintage and classic cars. Most of the group toured the University of New England after the car visit, noting the historical significance of a certain Fredrick White’s donation. In the late 1800s, Mr. White owned a large stock ranch, with successive rows of elms and a fancy summer home on the north hill. He donated his house and land to the university which now has some 3,000 students. Jim and I had a delightful dinner with Chris and Dianne Hardman that evening; Jim and Chris began planning for the Aussie – USA tour in near future (for more information, contact either Chris, Jim, or Owen Glover directly). Marianne took a two-hour run into the hills around Armidale to end her day, getting “up close and personal” with several local kangaroos. Meanwhile, Chris tried to grasp the idea of a “mall” being an open-air, brick-walked succession of shops, rather than the indoor type that most of us Americans are used to. All in all, Brian Weis (front center) with two of the American Armidale was a delightful taste of real-life, eastern Australia. judges; Eric Nelson of New Jersey (left) and Brian Decker Day 8 (Thursday, August 2) of Washington state (right). In the back is Ben Porter and After one last tasty “brekky,” we said a fond farewell to Ar- Devon Graham. midale and got a leisurely start to our touring day around 10:00 a.m. An hour or so down the “Waterfalls Highway” we stopped at the Wollomombi Gorge for a much-needed hike halfway down. The views were amazing. The locals have told us a bit about the five-year drought they are enduring. Wezley saw a beautiful red parrot and I heard some kind of bird call that sounded prehistoric and made me stop and wait for the rest of the group! We stopped for lunch in a tiny little town called Ebor. Earlier, Jim had decided to take a more “rural” route for this day’s travels, and after leaving Ebor, we began to climb in elevation and noticed a more rain- forest-like environment with amazing, white-barked eucalyptus trunks and huge tree ferns. The road, while paved, was winding and very narrow, at once scenic and nauseating. We arrived at our Grafton hotel around 4:00 p.m. Day 9 (Friday, August 3) We headed north towards MacLean to visit Ray and Gert Conner, enjoying the rural sights along the way. Warm, clear blue Jim Adkins judging in Rosewood, Queensland with Bruce Hogdson, a steward (called clerks in the U.S.). Bruce is skies, small herds of cattle in old rail fences, and 10 ft. tall fields holding the first edition of the Australia Poultry Standard, of sugar cane lined the country road. Finally, warmer weather! which Jim is using to judge the fowls. Jim says, “To me, this By way of introduction, Ray offered us a bit of an oral clearly communicates the international relationship with autobiography stating that he and his bride are looking forward Australia and U.S. poultry enthusiasts. to celebrating their upcoming 60th wedding anniversary. After greeting their charming old horse, Chief (age 33), we strolled back to Ray’s wonderful poultry sheds. He grabbed a bucket of corn, opened a big door, and out scampered seven or eight of the most beautiful, healthy, bright-eyed Black Australorps I’d ever seen. They were big, black, shiny and happy! He then showed us his prize-winning Dark-Barred Plymouth Rocks. Ray obviously loves his birds as well as his sweet wife; it seemed like everything on his farm glowed with vitality and joie de vivre. We departed Grafton, heading north to the historic Scottish town of MacLean. This little burg is obviously home to some very loyal Scotts; they’ve painted all the telephone poles in plaid! Jim Adkins judging the Plymouth Rocks at the Brisbane Had a short visit and a bite of lunch then headed on up the #M1 Royal, Queensland. There are seven Royals in Australia, towards Lismore. The afternoon was sunny and warm and the one for each state. Royals are similar to one of our very best countryside continued to be scenic. We’ve noticed many of the state fairs. This is actually the second time that judges from America had the opportunity to mark the birds. homes in this region are built up on blocks or stilts, and when we asked, were told that this type of architecture helps regulate 44 Backyard Poultry Spring hatching resumes Americaʼs Premier Poultry Source! February 23rd 2009.

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February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 45 the inside temperatures by allowing free unloaded our trusty trailer for the last air flow beneath the home. Today’s “tour- Plan Now for 2010 Australia/ time. We’ll be spending the next several ist” destinations included a hike across the New Zealand Poultry Tour days here before heading back to the dam at Whian Whian (pronounced “Wine Plans are being made now for the states on Saturday morning. We’re all Wine”) and a hilarious hunt for a scenic 2010 Australia & New Zealand tour pretty tired tonight and thankful to be waterfall destination Jim “remembered” sponsored by the International Center able to “settle in” a bit. from a few years back. With the help of for Poultry. The dates of the tour are DAY 13 (Tuesday, August 7) some locals, we found a fun alternative July 6-20, 2010, but space is limited to Today we toured through the Cabool- and enjoyed scouting out the lava creek 25 participants. For more information, ture Historical Village with our host, Bob beds. contact Jim Adkins, PO Box 3067, So- Whitehouse, of the Feather Clubs Asso- We pulled into the Dawson Motor Inn nora, CA 95370, e-mail: centre4poul- ciation of Queensland. We began our visit for the night. What a charming place … [email protected] or call 209-890-5326. at the poultry museum as Mr. Whitehouse it feels like we’ve stepped straight back Look to future issues of Backyard recounted years of Australian poultry his- into 1952! Poultry for additional information. tory. It was especially fascinating to hear DAY 10 (Saturday, August 4) about the role of “carrier” or “homing” As wild bird calls floated in our open is shining valiantly. Today we’re off to pigeons and their priceless contributions window early this morning, I awoke won- the beach, planning to visit Byron Bay to the Australian National Army over the dering if one could ever possibly come (the easternmost point of Australia) and years. This museum is, indeed, a labor to take this natural melody for granted. explore the shops and waterfront trea- of love; many “chook” enthusiasts have What a beautiful way to greet a new day. sures. Later we visited the light house at given their precious treasures to make From the sounds of them, we assumed Byron Bay; what an amazing place! This this a significant tribute to the fancy. it was another sunny one, but alas, the particular coast of the Pacific is the clean- After the poultry museum, we toured clouds have arrived for the first time since est of any ocean I’ve ever seen. through the rest of the village, taking leaving the U.S. After this stop, we headed to Byron in the sights of historical buildings of We took a short drive out to Doug Bay proper and split up to check out the every kind: Antique Australian homes, Hogan’s place. Doug specializes in rais- local scenery and shops. Saw a few surf- churches, schools, a hospital, garage, ing Rhode Island Reds, as Jim refers to ers and some rather interesting clothing post office, butcher, dairy, maritime mu- them, “Some of the best!” (Doug came choices. Some of us took a plunge into the seum, and many others were featured. to the U.S. in 1998, one of about 20 ocean near Surfers’ Paradise. Our “bird We lunched at the “tearoom,” enjoying Aussies who flew over for the mid-west people” endured this “non poultry day” traditional favorites. tour). Erik was, once again, thrilled quite pleasantly and our beach bums got DAY 14 (Wednesday, August 8) with the birds as well as the chance to a nice taste of home today. Today is the Australia Zoo day— meet Ian Campbell, an Aussie Plymouth DAY 12 (Monday, August 6) Crikey! Here’s what a few folks had Rock breeder with whom he has been We spent the day at Currumbin Wild- to say: “I liked seeing the Steve Irwin corresponding. Several members of the life Sanctuary, what a cool place! When memorial wall. As we entered the zoo, Lismore Poultry Club joined us. we arrived, the morning Lorikeet feeding we were greeted by five kookaburras As mid-morning rolled around, our was just getting started, so we joined in laughing at the top of their lungs; it was a very own trio of “Lismorians” (Ray, the fun. A Lorikeet is a smallish tropical cool entrance. I think it was the cleanest, Glenda and Doug) guided us out into the bird with a bright green body, brilliant well-planned-out zoo I’ve ever seen. The country for a visit to Norm and Fiona blue head, red chest and yellow neck. Tasmanian Devils looked like big rats. The Black’s new farm. We could hardly be- During the twice-a-day feeding, guests tree kangaroos were quite beautiful.” lieve it when we pulled up and were told hold up pie tins of watery feed and the A few of our group walked up the that they’ve only lived there for a month. flocks swarm in, alighting on the arms, street tonight to a little local pub to join The place is amazing! Walking through the shoulders and heads of willing humans. in the fun of “Krazy Kathe’s Karaoke.” sheds, we complimented Norm on their It’s great fun. Neil had been anxious to try his hand (or great design, and he was quick to give This sanctuary cares for injured wild- voice) at Karaoke—Aussie style, and his credit to his architect, Fiona. His birds life and offers engaging and educational fans weren’t disappointed. The ladies said were immaculate and huge and incredible. “shows” throughout the day. We learned he was the best one in the place. We saw Light Sussex, Buff Sussex, Black a lot about Australian native snakes, DAY 15 (Thursday, August 9) Australorps, and some rare and fabulous dingoes, marsupials, birds of prey, and EKKA Day! What an amazing place! Red-Shouldered Yokohamas. reptiles. The crocodile appeared to be in Think of the best state fair you’ve ever Members of the Lismore Poultry Club a semi-coma state due to the low temps, attended … then double it. Jim, Erik, and the Bangalow Poultry Club prepared but the kangaroos were lively and we and Brian (D) judged, I manned the book a sumptuous barbeque for everyone. loved getting the chance to feed them table, and everyone else roamed around. We all had a chance to visit with by hand and scratch their fuzzy backs. Marianne said the dog show was great; she members of these two clubs at our evening Before leaving we took a great group especially liked the Australian Shepherds. meal, held at the local “Workers Club.” photo with the Lorikeets during their late Chris enjoyed the horses, Steve liked the Day 11 (Sunday, August 5) afternoon feeding. waterfowl, particularly the runner ducks; The clouds have scattered and the sun We headed up to Brisbane and gladly he was amazed at how tall they were. 46 Backyard Poultry When I asked Ben to tell his thoughts No worries: no problem, it’s ok, you’re about this day he said, “Chicken shows fine, etc. are the same all over the world … it was DAY 17 (Saturday, August 11th) a fine day for all.” Brian added, “All the Today we head home, and say a Australian poultry men, judges, stewards, fond farewell to our new “mates” in exhibitors, were very, very friendly.” Australia. It has been a memorable two To finish our day, we had a delicious weeks, and those of us on the tour have Thai dinner with Alf and Gladys Woods. become a little, traveling family of our What a delightful pair they are! Jim own. This morning, as we waited at the said Alf is “One of the best Old English airport in Brisbane, Brian Decker made breeders in all of Australia.” He’s also the a funny statement that I think kind of president of three different clubs, as well sums up some of our sentiments as we as one of the five founding members of reminisce about our time “down under.”: the first ever Australian Standard Com- “There are four great things in Australia mittee. Needless to say, he and Jim and … great folks, good chooks, ‘long black’ the other bird lovers had a lot to talk about (coffee) and Tooheys Old (dark beer).” down at their end of the table, while at our end, we introduced Chris to the delights of lamb and tofu! DAY 16 (Friday, August 10) For our final full day of this tour, the die-hards went back to the EKKA for yet more chooks, while the rest of us headed onto the City Cat to tour through down- town Brisbane. The City Cat is actually a fleet of river ferries that provide mass transit as well as tourist opportunities up and down the Brisbane River. It was another beautiful, sunny day, perfect for sight-seeing, picking out last-minute sou- venirs and gifts, and a final tour through the barns at the EKKA. Our final evening of this year’s tour was spent enjoying another fine Aussie meal. This formal dinner was presented by the administration and leadership of the poultry department of the EKKA. On that note, we thought it might be fun to end our little journal article with some of the most common Aussie phrases we’ve learned this past fortnight (two weeks): Crikey: exclamation of surprise or be- wilderment. Interchangeable with words such as “Blimey” or “Struth.” Chicken: a baby chick Chook: a grown up chicken Chick: what you might see at a beach such as Byron Bay Take away: to go (as in a fast-food type of meal or beverage) Holiday: vacation (as in “Are you enjoy- ing your holiday?”) How ‘ya going?: How are you? G’day mate: Hello, friend You’ll be right: Everything will be ok Toilet: Restroom Tea: Either a mid-morning snack or din- ner!! (yes, very confusing) February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 47 He l pf u l Hi n t s : Steer Clear of Drive-Thru Hatcheries OrderingChicksChicks Should Should Be Be Fun! Fun!

staring blankly at the menu. Eventually, my son Jackson will hurl something from the back seat that “accidently” knocks me in the back of the head, prompting me to incoherently place my order; “Hello Jose, I’ll take a bucket of chicken and my daughter would like a pepperoni pizza please.” As far as I know, drive-thru hatcheries don’t exist. If they did, my wife would order the #1 Brown Egg Layer Combo hold the Barred Rocks, Skyler would order a bucket of bantams with a side of Light Brahmas, and Kassidi would try to order a kitten! No, most suppliers of baby chicks are set up much like mail order companies. Since you’re ordering chicks sight unseen, choosing where to order your baby chicks from is un- derstandably a very important choice. I can honestly tell from working with many of the major hatcheries across the country, that most are owned and operated by some of the nicest, most down-to-earth people I know. They take great pride in what they do and genuinely care not only for their customers’ hap- Warning: Looking at this picture of baby chicks will cause an intense urge to order baby chicks. Side effects include happiness and a refrigerator filled with eggs.

By r o n Pa r k e r Fertile eggs Ra n d a l l Bu r k e y Co m p a n y are collected Te x a s through the day in egg baskets hoices are wonderful things to have, if you have the and will quickly time to enjoy them. When I’m sitting in my car at a be transferred C drive-thru restaurant, I often wish the restaurant didn’t to turning trays have such a huge selection. I might really appreciate all the that are put choices if the person honking his horn behind me was actually directly into yelling; “Hey buddy, take your time looking at that menu, I incubators. want you to be happy with your decision!” That’s obviously not the case. (Admittedly, it takes me five minutes to pick out a shirt to wear to work in the morning and I only have three or four good work shirts.) Suddenly, I find myself with less than one minute trying to choose from a menu displaying 50 individual items and a Thousands dozen combo-meals. Add my family to this equation and you of chicken have the formula for some real chaos. Half the time my 5-year- eggs in trays marked to old daughter Kassidi will try to order pizza at a drive thru that identify specific clearly sells mexican food, or hamburgers at a drive thru that breeds are clearly sells fried chicken. My oldest daughter Skyler and my put into giant wife Jenny never order anything the way the restaurant prepares incubators it. I go back and forth between my family and the order box and hatchers. requesting extra this and extra that, leaving things off or putting Chicken eggs it on the side. Meanwhile, Kassidi insists on ordering a pep- typically hatch peroni pizza from Jose’s Taco Hut! Of course, I’m the worst of in 21 days. the bunch, because I have no idea what I want and just sit there 48 Backyard Poultry they possess many unique characteristics of their own. Popular breeds are just that because they have proven to be hardy breeds that are generally good to excellent egg layers. Chicks are typically shipped the same day they hatch. Most are shipped priority mail which typically takes about two days for delivery. Chicks will be delivered to your local post office for you to pick up immediately upon notification. It’s a good idea to check with your post office on the expected date if you have not received notification of their arrival by mid morning. The chicks will be fine without food or water during the trip because their yolk sac supplies them with all the nourishment they need to easily survive the journey. However, because they do need to stay warm to survive, most hatcheries require that several chicks ship together in one box. This allows the chicks to huddle together and provide warmth for each other, as well as providing stability inside the shipping box. Because bantams Chicks are shipped the same day they are hatched. These chicks are much smaller than standard breeds, they typically have are going directly from the hatching tray into the shipping box and will arrive at their new home in two days. larger minimum order requirements for shipping. Minimum requirements vary from hatchery to hatchery and can change during the season based on location and weather. piness, but the well-being of the chicks they hatch. I believe The best advice I can give anyone considering ordering you will find most, if not all, of the major chick suppliers listed live chicks, is to be prepared in advance with the right tools in the pages of the Backyard Poultry to be the kind of people to ensure the chicks wellbeing. GroGel is a great product that you’ll want to do business with. After receiving your catalog quickly rehydrates chicks after the journey from the hatchery from the supplier of your choice, you and your family can sit to your home. After mixing GroGel with water, it turns into a peacefully in the comfort of your home and look over the many shiny, green, high moisture gel that attracts chicks. It’s basi- choices of chickens available. Some people choose a breed for cally water in a solid form that contains vitamins and other their appearance, their disposition, egg laying proficiency, or valuable nutrients including probiotics. It’s also very affordable even egg color. Whatever your choice is, I am sure it will be at under $4 for a package that treats 100 chicks. In addition, the right one, provided you avoid ordering from a drive-thru make sure the chicks have an appropriate waterer that has a hatchery! With that said, here is some information to assist drown-proof lid. Just getting wet in an inappropriately sized you when ordering baby chicks to help make your experience waterer can cause a baby chick to get chilled, which can be more enjoyable. devastating to their well being during their first few weeks of Most standard breed chicks are available in the following life. Heat is obviously just as important as food and water are three categories: Straight Run, Pullets, or Males. Straight run to baby chicks. During the first week you will want to provide basically means the chicks are not sexed after they hatch, so them with a draft-free area that maintains a constant tempera- you typically end up with a mixture of both males and females, ture of 95 degrees and enough space so they can move to and although no guarantee is given on the ratio of males to fe- away from the heat source as needed. Reduce the temperature males. Bantams are typically sold as straight run only. Pullets, although typically defined as young hens, is the term used by most hatcheries to describe day old female chicks. This is the category you would want to order from if you’re interested in eggs only, since it is not necessary to have a rooster for the hen to lay eggs. Males are day-old male chickens and are typically less expensive than the other two categories, unless you’re ordering meat birds like Cornish Rocks. Most hatcheries will have some type of guarantee on the accuracy of sexed chicks. Many breeds are easily feather sexed or color sexed and spe- cialists are used for vent sexing, so the odds of getting exactly what you ordered are very good. Chicks are categorized according to their popularity and availability. Many breeds categorized as rare are not as popular as some other breeds, so fewer breeders are available to produce fertile eggs for hatching. However, as more people become interested in preserving and familiarizing themselves with these “rare” breeds, demand is sometimes much higher than supply. An 18" high cardboard corral provides a draft free area for the You should consider ordering rare breeds in the early spring chicks to roam. Heat is provided at one end, food and water at to ensure availability. Keep in mind that the more common/ the other. GroGel is a great choice for providing water and vital popular breeds are just as interesting to raise as rare breeds and nutrients for your chicks once they arrive.

February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 49 Gail Damerow’s books are one of the best tools you can use to prepare yourself for raising chickens. They cover everything from breed selection to collecting and storing eggs.

five degrees each week for the first five weeks. After that, supplemental heat may only be required during the cold nights or during extremely cold days. There are many types of brooders to choose from, some as simple as a single lamp reflector with a bulb, to manufac- tured brooders that have adjustable ther- mostats, feeders, waterers, and removable drop pans for easy cleaning. There are many suppliers of poultry products adver- Smart Owners Free 2009 tised within the pages of Backyard Poultry Biosecurity that can assist you with finding the right Protect Their Birds Calendar products to care for your new babies. Remember, when you’re looking What You Need to Know USDA is working to keep “bird flu” (avian influenza – AI) and through your baby chick catalog, there exotic Newcastle disease (END) out of the country. They are will be no one behind you honking their contagious viral diseases that can infect many types of birds. horn. Take all the time you need to make the right choice. LOOK FOR SIGNS OF ILLNESS Byron Parker will continue to share Watch for signs of disease or unexpected his experiences with products used deaths among your birds. in poultry keeping in future issues of Backyard Poultry. Byron is employed by REPORT SICK BIRDS Randall Burkey Company, see their ad Call your local cooperative extension office, on pages 3. veterinarian, State Veterinarian or USDA Veterinary To order, go to: Many quality hatcheries advertise Services toll free at 1–866–536–7593. http://healthybirds.aphis.usda.gov. throughout the magazine. When looking to purchase your next batch of chicks, PROTECT YOUR BIRDS look to them for assistance in choosing Take a few simple steps: Disinfect shoes, clothes, and equipment. Wash your hands carefully. the right breed for your lifestyle. Many Keep other birds and people away from your birds. of the products you will use to get started are also available from hatcheries or sup- ply stores in this magazine. Offer them your support.

You can find out more about how Gail Damerow’s books are available United States Department of Agriculture to protect your birds by visiting: Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service http://healthybirds.aphis.usda.gov in our bookstore, pages 28-29. Gail also USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. has an excellent article titled “Fowl Lan- guage” beginning on page 18. —Ed.

50 Backyard Poultry February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 51 Sh o w s : A Summary of the 2008 APA National Ventura, California Ventura, California

Da v e An d e r s o n , Pr e s i d e n t hibitors. Ninety-six of the exhibitors, or 10 entries in the egg judging contest and Am e r i c a n Po u l t r y As s o c i a t i o n 39%, were juniors. There were actually eight teams participated in Avian Bowl. attendees from 20 states plus Canada and There were also arts and crafts, a coloring he long awaited 135th American England. The junior activities area was contest, and a poultry knowledge scaven- Poultry Association (APA) annual buzzing all day long, and we had to use ger hunt. The junior area was humming exhibition and convention, hosted three showmanship judges to handle the all day and we had a hard time getting byT the SeaSide Feather Fanciers (SSFF), influx of participants. The banquet sold everyone to leave so we could close the was held on October 24-26 at the Ventura out at 238 tickets and there were many at- doors prior to the banquet. County Fairgrounds in California. To the tendees hoping to buy tickets from those Many exhibitors chose to ship their best of anyone’s knowledge, this was lucky enough to reserve them. The SSFF birds in from across the country. There the very first time an APA National had chose to rent 10x10 spaces along the were two truck loads of birds that arrived been held oceanside. Most exhibitors and walls of the primary show hall to breed late Wednesday and throughout the day visitors made sure they did wander down clubs and commercial ventures, and they on Thursday. They were immediately to the water so they could say that they too sold out. This meant there was a great transferred to holding cages and fed and had, indeed, immersed one body part or deal to see and do besides admiring the watered until coop tags were in place. another in the Pacific Ocean. The host beautiful birds on display. Some of these exhibitors attended the hotel was also located on the beach within There was a vast array of junior show, others did not. The birds were walking distance of the Fairgrounds. activities that had fantastic participa- shipped back the following Monday. Thus those who chose to stay there had a tion. Fifty-six kids participated in Jr. The show halls were opened first thing nice stroll along the beach each morning Showmanship. There were 76 entries in Friday morning so exhibitors could drop and evening. the photography contest, 38 educational off their birds and have a day of sightsee- By all accounts this was a fantastic posters entered and 34 participants in the ing. Exhibitors and birds were arriving all show—2,670 birds shown by 248 ex- judging contest. In addition there were day and by Friday evening the majority of the cages were filled. The club provided a free meal Friday evening to anyone in- terested. It proved to be very popular; in fact they ran out of food. The APA Board meeting was held at the fairgrounds on Friday night with an excellent turnout of Officers and Directors. Doors were again opened early on Saturday to accommodate late arrivals and a brief welcoming ceremony and in- troduction of the judges took place about 8:45 a.m. The host SSFF club bought new judging coats for all 12 judges with the shows emblem on the back. This was an impressive sight and hopefully the group was captured on film. The judges moved The 2008 APA rapidly through the birds and were ready to National show was select show champions at about 4:30 p.m. brimming with birds, Judges working the various breed club people and sunshine. national meets were asked to place down Above: the showhall, to 10th and that slowed them up a bit, but with over 2,600 birds exhibited. Right: the they persevered and made the time line. fairgrounds, with a Clubs holding their national meets bird’s eye view of also conducted their annual meetings the Pacific Ocean. throughout the day in the building Photos by Elaine provided for that purpose. The Modern Belanger. Game Bantam Club had their own ideas, 52 Backyard Poultry however, and held their meeting on the beach, complete with champagne. My guess is that this was the first club meet- ing ever held in this fashion. Various seminars were also offered during the day and auctions and raffle drawings oc- cupied much of the late afternoon. Once champions were selected, the show buildings were locked and the banquet hall was opened. The hall com- fortably seated approximately 240 and a complete no-host bar was available for those who chose to unwind with a libation while talking to friends. Stars of fame were placed on the floor throughout the hall so attendees could see past APA hon- orees, many of whom were in attendance. More than one star was removed by the honoree or to present to an absent hon- oree as a momento. In addition, plaques of fanciers honored throughout the years by a conglomeration of California clubs known as the “Cal National” lined the walls. The plaques contain a picture of the honoree and a brief description of their contributions. The program commenced with a short general meeting of the APA that included recognition of three husband-and-wife duos for their contributions to the fancy. These included Jim & Bonnie Sallee, Nancy & Lowell Sherman, and Jerry & Laverne Raven—all very deserving of the award. A dinner of barbequed chicken and tri- tip prepared by club members was served buffet style. The smell of the meat barbe- quing throughout the day certainly height- ened everyone’s appetite. While everyone was finishing up eating, the judges and our honored guests from England, Chris & Susan Parker, were introduced. This was followed by a wine raffle and dessert auction. At the conclusion, all were invited to return to the show halls for the “stroll with the judges.” This feature proved to be quite popular and we had a difficult time getting everyone to leave so we could lock up the buildings for the evening. The doors were opened at 8:00 a.m. on Sunday and everyone fed and watered their birds, collected their awards, wrote out ads for the poultry media and headed for home. The cleanup crew spent all day dismantling the show and did not go home until about 7:00 p.m. The SeaSide Feather Fanciers would like to thank each and every person that made this event a success. It would be impossible to list each one individually, February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 53 but collectively the attendees, exhibitors, judges, merchants and work crews all contributed their share. A special thanks to the APA and the various breed clubs that allowed us to host their annual meets and meetings. Also much gratitude to the poultry media—Poultry Press, Feather Fancier and Backyard Poultry, for at- tending and covering our show. We hope everyone enjoyed themselves and went home with fond memories. Grand Champion of the show and the bird that will appear on the cover of the 2009 APA Yearbook – Black Cochin bantam pullet – Sheryl Butler, Washington. Reserve Champion of show and recipient of a free full page in the 2009 APA Yearbook – SC Light Brown Leghorn large fowl pul- let – Don Montgomery, Washington. Best A NEW MAGAZINE Display was won on Light Brahma bantams – Spence and Williams, Texas. Champion trio out of 69 competing was won on a NOT TO BE MISSED! Birchen Modern Game bantam young trio – Jim & Bonnie Sallee, California. Now for the junior winners. In Cali- fornia we do not hold a separate junior show but the junior birds compete with adults in the open show. After each class is judged, the judge also chooses the best and reserve junior birds in that class, e.g., SCCL or RCCL. Thus juniors have two chances to win and quite often we have junior birds appearing on both the junior and open show champion rows, as was the case here. • American Breed Focus • Club Directory • New Colors and Rare Breeds Best junior large fowl was a SC Light • American Breeders Focus • Basic Show Preparation • Poultry Housing here & Brown Leghorn pullet by Derek Fry-Shaw. • British Breed Focus • Basic Poultry Keeping in the UK • British Breeders Focus • Incubation • Competitions - Fantastic Prizes This bird was also reserve Mediterranean • American Show Dates • Poultry Disease • The British Royal Family and in the open show. Reserve junior large fowl • For Sale Advertisements • International Breeds their Role in Poultry - PRINCE {Poultry} and Breeders CHARLES FEATURED IN ISSUE 2 was a Partridge Rock pullet by Amaya Dempsey. This bird was best American in This will get you FANCY FOWL USA mailed to your the open show. Best junior bantam was a home each month for 12 months. Brown Red Modern Game hen by Travis Furia and reserve junior bantam (ABA) a Mandarin old drake by Amanda Penicks. 6 months $29 12 months $49 Reserve junior bantam (APA) was a Blue

First Name: Breasted Red Old English Game cockerel

Surname: by Amanda Penicks. Best waterfowl by a

Address junior was the Mandarin and reserve a Grey

City Toulouse old goose by Emilee Gaarde.

State: Overall champion junior bird was the

Zip: Brown Red Modern Game hen and reserve

Phone: the SC Light Brown Leghorn pullet.

Email: If you wish to know more about the APA please visit their website at www. Please post your subscription form and cheque to: Fancy Fowl USA, 159 Creekside Drive, Anderson, Alabama 35610 amerpoultryassn.com or contact the APA

Checks made payable to: Fancy Fowl USA. BYP secretary, Pat Horstman, via telephone at (724) 729-3459 or e-mail secretaryapa@ yahoo.com. 54 Backyard Poultry The February/March, 2009 cover winner February/March, 2009 is a photo by Dana Ness, D.V.M., Vashon, Washington. This is her Naked Neck hen, Sneetch. (According to the APA’s American Backyard Standard of Perfection, the breed name is Naked Neck, but many of us also know them as Turkens.—Ed.) Poultry Dana says, “I love my Turkens! They are great birds. I’m slowly converting my friends and clients by raising a few extra pullets each Photo Contest year to give away. I have a mixed flock and the Turkens are winter laying champs.” For more information on this unique Winner breed, see page 40. And the 2008 Photo Contest Winner is... e asked you, the readers, to select your favorite cover in choosing the prize winners for last year’s photo contest. We received many votes, and the race was close for all six covers. (Reminded me of a few political races in fall of 2008.)W Readers shared comments as to their choice, and like all of life, everyone had a different viewpoint. Here are a few com- ments we received: First place by Orren Fox: An excellent visual representation of the three connected elements of Backyard Poultry focus—the human, the chick, and the open out of doors. Such a clear and cute photo. Second place by Robert Gibson: This was such a great photo that we thought it was not real. I’m not into turkeys, but this photo was nearly perfect. Third place by Rosemary Stockwell: The rooster on this cover is what raising poultry is all about. We loved the tail feathers. Thanks to everyone who took the time to vote. The top three winners will receive prize money and all six cover winners will get a one- year subscription to Backyard Poultry. First place by Orren Fox, Second place by Robert Third place by Rosemary Massachusetts. Gibson, New Hampshire. Stockwell, Louisiana.

BackyardVolume 3, Number 2 Backyard BackyardVolume 3, Number 6 Volume 3, Number 5 December, 2008/January, 2009 April/May, 2008 October/November, 2008 Poultry Poultry Dedicated to more and better small-flock poultr Dedicated to more and better small-flock poultry Poultry Dedicated to more and better small-flock poultry y

All About the Cock’s Crow One Dozen Pg. 32 Tips & Tricks to Simplify Fun to Raise, Easy to Keep Bantams Poultry Keeping Pg. 18 World’s Oldest Breed: Keep Birds in and Predators The Hardy Asil out Pg. 50 with Good Fences Terrific Turkeys An Cook, Clean, History, Culture & Varieties Store & Serve Eggcentric Incredible Edible Eggs Pg. 42

Artist Pg. 30

Plus: Breed Focus: • The Nene goose • The Delaware chicken Plymouth Rocks The Homestead Flock: • The future of gamebirds • Build a brooder “The Heirloom Breed” $4.99 US Pets or Partners? $4.95 US • $6.95 Canada • Just for the fun of it $4.99 US Pg. 20 Pg. 36 ...and more inside!

Send Your Photo(s) Today! Photo Contest Guidelines Each issue’s winner will be displayed in the position of honor—on the front cover of the magazine!

Photos must relate in some way to poultry or their products. No limit on number of entries. Attach your name, address, phone number or e-mail and photo caption or description to each photo (not on the front, please). Backyard Poultry retains the right to publish and/or reproduce any and all photos submitted in future issues or publicity, with or without mention of source. To have your photos returned, please include a self-addressed stamped envelope. Each issue’s winning entry will be placed in a gallery of finalists, to be announced in the February/March, 2010 issue. First prize—$50; 2nd prize—$30; 3rd prize—$20. Send your entry to: Backyard Poultry Photo Contest, 145 Industrial Dr., Medford, WI 54451; or e-mail photos in jpg format to [email protected].

February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 55 OHIO NATIONAL Showmanship Winners Ohio National Poultry Show YOUTH SHOW 2008 Age 6 and under NOVEMBER 8-9, 2008 Brianna Abee Dean Walter Backyard Poultry attended the Ohio proper handling; basic anatomy; knowl- Jaydeigh Miller National in the fall of 2008, and similar edge and husbandry. Age 7-9 to 2007, had a great time meeting our If your children are considering Seth Abel readers, learning about various breeds, showing their birds, I highly recom- Zachary Ortman and simply enjoying the event. mend the Ohio National as a perfect Brandi Powell The show is the largest regularly starting point, or refresher course, on scheduled poultry show in the U.S., and the basics of showmanship. I promise a Age 10-11 2008 was no exception, with more than 440 warm welcome, with lots of educational Joshua Schwieterman exhibitors presenting over 5,300 birds. opportunities. Maddison Rex An important part of the Ohio Na- The Ohio National is held each year Sara Sollman tional is the very active youth program. on the second full weekend of November, Age 12-13 Over the next three issues, we will include and Backyard Poultry looks forward to Shelby Mass one story written by youth for the essay seeing you there. Erin Lewis contest, answering the question: Other One of our favorite stories involved Danielle Seitner than friends, what is your favorite part a teen from Pennsylvania. When offered Age 14-15 of the Ohio National and why? the choice of how she wanted to spend Kelsey Rumburg Showmanship is also an important her birthday, she chose to come to the Jordan DeLong part of the youth program, with educa- show. After visiting with her mother, I Olivia Pasciolla tional opportunities offering a hands-on can vouch for her satisfaction in choos- showmanship clinic by Lindsay Halbach. ing this birthday trip. Age 16-18 Topics presented covered Showroom For more information about the Ohio Malisa Spring Basics: Courtesy, Expectations, Ethics National, visit their website at www. Leila Dean and Showmanship Guidelines including ohionational.org.—Ed. Lacy Allen The Poultry Olympics A.K.A. the Ohio National Poultry Show

Za c h a r y P. Dr a c h (Ag e 10)

hear the crow of the rooster but also the cluck of the hens. I feel like I am at the poultry Olympics, but I remind myself I’m at the Ohio National Poultry Show. I After arriving at the Olympic village to coop in the team, I check in with the poultry secretary to receive my room numbers and help everyone settle in. I think about my breed birds and all the work we’ve done all year to get ready for this show. Everyone has trained re- ally hard to get here. So you see, my favorite thing about the Ohio National Poultry Show is taking my best breed birds and having them compete for gold on championship row. In the Olympics people train for the event they are in and chickens do the same thing. I also make sure they get out there and exercise to be in great shape for the show. People do track and field but chickens do scratch and peck. To get ready for the Poultry Olympics, chickens in training need to be clean. To encourage my flock, I had them watch Michael Phelps win eight gold medals in the swimming events. My chickens love the water now! I feel like I’m in the 40-yard dash event when I’m at a show because I run back and forth to see how the judge places my birds. It is so exciting to see how my birds stack up when the competition is this great. The team and I are trying to win eight gold medals this year. Six for the breed bird events, as well as one for showman- ship and one for my sweet essay that you are now reading. Eight gold medals means a lot in a poultry show as large as the Ohio National. That is why I love to compete at the Ohio National with my breed birds—it is as exciting as the Olympics to me. See you there.

56 Backyard Poultry February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 57 How to Read a CoopCoop TagTag

Ch e r y l Ba r n a b a and he may make notes to himself on Every judge has a different system to Sa n c t i o n Coo r d i n a t o r the coop tags. help him keep track of what is good and Am e r i c a n Ba n t a m As s o c i a t i o n Those notes indicate what the judge bad in a big class. Some judges prefer to o you’re thinking of trying your saw that he liked or did not like. As the leave coop tags flipped up while work- hand at showing chickens. You judge is working you may see him make ing to remind him of a trait he liked or have figured out how to get your checks in the upper corner of the tag. A disliked. For example, it could be a sys- birdsS tested. You sleuthed out how to get “check” symbol may be used as a note for tem for a bird he wants to look at again, an entry form, and you even learned the a trait that the judge likes. A slash through or a bird he does not want to consider hard way how to wash your birds. a check can mean there is a trait the judge at all. Some judges don’t need to make Now your birds have been judged, does not like. Sometimes you will see any notes on the coop tags; they just but you just don’t understand what those minus marks struck through the checks. remember what they liked and did not marks on your coop tag mean. Don’t feel These checks can indicate good qualities like in the bird. bad; most new people have lots of ques- the judge sees on the bird, with the minus For you, this can be nerve wracking tions in this department. marks indicating the bad qualities found when standing at a respectful distance For an example let’s follow a judge the bird. Some judges use checks and Xs watching. You probably won’t know what working the Black Old English bantam instead; checks indicate good and the Xs a judge is thinking until he’s finished. class. This is usually a pretty big class indicate poor. When he has made his final choices they are indicated by his marking of 1st - 3rd or 1st - 5th place, depending on what How to Read a Coop Tag at a the show requires of the judge. A 1st of course means a first place. A judge does Show not have to pick a second place if the class is considered of poor quality. Your bird will fall into one of the Once the judge has worked through following catagories: Bantam, Large placing 1-3 Cock, 1-3 Hen, 1-3 Cockerel, Fowl, Waterfowl or Turkey and 1-3 Pullet in our Black Old English

This space denotes the Class: class, he will then look to find his best and Each breed falls into a class. S.C.C. GAME BANTAMS reserve in the color black. The color (in stands for Single Comb Clean Leg. Old English Game this case black) is referred to as “Variety.” The Breed is recorded here: Black He will mark his Best of Variety with This is the Color of the bird: the initials BV. The Reserve of Variety This is the Sex of the bird: is marked with the initials RV. A cock is a male over 1 year of age A hen is a female over 1 year of age Then the judge will move through the A cockerel is a male under one year of age rest of the varieties in the Old English class, A pullet is a female under one year of age choosing BVs and RVs in each color. This is your Entry Number: Now it’s time for our judge to pick This number is unique to each exhibitor. The Best of Breed and Reserve of Breed in number is pre-assigned and recorded here. Some- times the number is referred to as the “Exhibitor the Old English Game class. He will look Number.” back over his Best of Varieties to refresh his memory. He will then pick the Best These numbers are used by the judges to record your score on the card: of Breed from the Best of Varieties that Generally, 1st through 3rd place is recorded. Larger shows will sometimes place a bird to as many as 6 places. In this case, the judge has awarded this bird a 1st place. he chose from within the breed. For example, our BV Black Old The “comments” space is reserved for the judges who may wish to leave a note for the exhibitor: Good traits, as well as undesirable traits, may be noted. In this case the exhibitor has won English hen has been chosen for Best Best of Breed, which is recorded as BB on the tag. BB stands for Best of Breed, RB stands for of Breed. This bird now has two initials Reserve of Breed, BV stands for Best of Variety, RV stands for Reserve of Variety, and DQ stands for Disqualified. written on its tag: BV and BB. The BB means she has won Best of Breed. This is If you have any questions, please ask one of your fellow exhibitors. They will be happy to help you. Please respect the a big win when there are many exhibitors judging and hold any questions for the judge until he is finished showing birds in a class. with his work. It is considered very rude to interrupt or interfere Our judge has placed a White Old with the judge during judging. English Game cockerel as Reserve Breed. So that cockerel now has the initials BV 58 Backyard Poultry and RB inscribed on its tag. The RB into the palm of the judge’s hand. This is some breeds the males are meant to be stands for Reserve of Breed. He’s second not a sign of good health in the judge’s hen feathered.) in the class to the Black hen. eye, and he notes it on a tag. This is not an exhaustive list, but If our judge had thought the Blacks WTG: Weight can mean the opposite should cover most of the things a judge were the best birds in the class he could of Light. Sometimes a judge feels a bird might write on your cage card at a show. have chosen Best of Breed from the BV is obese and may mark a tag indicating If you have received one of these notes Black and the RB from the RV Black. this. on your coop tag, then you have officially This does not happen often, but once in SP Wing/ SPL W/ SW: Split Wing. This joined the club. Every exhibitor has had a while you will see it. means the bird has an improper space them. Consider it constructive criticism Now the little Black Old English between the two portions of its wing, the by the judge. You learn and then make Game hen will be removed from her cage primary and secondary feathers. corrections for the next time. We have and placed on Champion Row, fighting SS: Side Sprig, the bump on the side of a all been there. The folks who have been for her chance to go on to win Champion comb (usually Single Comb) that should breeding birds for 30 years are the one bantam. not be there. who really don’t want to see any notes As you look around the show hall you Stubs: feather stubs on bird’s toes where on their tags! may notice other intriguing marks on coop none should be, such as in a clean-legged Owning and referring often to The tags. Most of the time if a judge makes a bird. Standard of Perfection is the key to mak- note on a coop tag it’s not a good thing. Any TF: Twisted Feather, the bird’s feather ing the right choices in your breeding judge who takes the time to make notes on or feathers twists at the root. This is a pens. Like the GPS in your car alerting a coop tag wants the owner to know why defect. you on a wrong turn, the Standard of he did not like the bird and this is his way ST: Squirrel Tail, which means the angle Perfection lets you know if you are taking of communicating to the owner. of the tail in relation to the back is too the right path to success with your flock. CD or CND: Condition…that is to say; high. The Standard of Perfection is available poor condition. A judge will not write WT: Wry Tail, this sharp-eyed judge has from the American Poultry Association the word “condition” on a properly con- noted that the tail bends to the side rather (http://www.amerpoultryassn.com) and ditioned bird. than staying straight. Sometimes a bird the Bantam Standard from the ABA WS or NS: No show, perhaps the judge will not hold its tail wrong at home, but (http://www.bantamclub.com). considered this to be a decent bird but may do so in a strange cage. It’s annoying Best of luck to you at your shows! he could not get it to perform well (or but duly noted. “show”) for him, thus making the bird RB: Roach Backed, which means the difficult to place. back of the bird curves incorrectly. Yes, NW: Not Worthy, which means just plain RB can mean Reserve of Breed, but in RIDGWAY HATCHERY not a good bird at all, not worthy of being the case of a bird that did not win any judged or shown in the judge’s view. awards it means Roach Backed. This is a Chicks, DQ: Disqualified. Refer to your Standard common problem in some breeds. Of Perfection for breed qualifications. Toe: This usually means a missing toenail Ducklings, This book is a recipe book of what a bird or inadequate toe feathering (for feather- Turkeys, is supposed to be. footed breeds.) Sometimes a judge writes Guineas, C-: Poor color, or just the word “color” “toe” when the toe is discolored. Game birds, can mean the color was wrong on the Age: The bird is too young to be shown, Goslings, and Quail eggs. bird. or entered improperly (such as an obvi- LC: Leg color. Take this to mean the leg ous cock bird shown as a cockerel and so Books and egg cartons. color is wrong. on). Most of the time this is a beginner’s WC: Wing color is wrong. mistake. Call or write for your EC: Eye color is wrong. Keel: The bird has a crooked keel, also FREE catalog! EL or Ear Lobe: Ear lobe color is known as breastbone. wrong. Hock: The bird is either Cow Hocked Ridgway Hatchery Comb : Comb is incorrect for the breed (knock kneed) or Vulture Hocked when P.O. Box 306 or variety. it should not be for the breed. Again Mites: If a coop tag says mites it means check your Standard Of Perfection for La Rue 38, OH 43332 the owner is really embarrassed right direction on what the breed is supposed 800-323-3825 now. A show bird should never come to to look like. www.ridgwayhatchery.com a show hall with mites or lice. A good Spurs: The complete absence of spurs bird with mites is not held in high esteem. on adult males. Order Today! This is a problem that no one else wants White: There is white in feathers where and the owner should have dealt with it it should not be. 84 years of quality and service, at home a couple of weeks ago. HF or Hen Feathered: Indicated a male breeding and hatching experience, Light: Usually a signal from the judge bird that shows no characteristic male and professional integrity. that the bird’s keel bone is sticking out feathering for his breed (note that in February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 59 Yo u t h : Minute Mystery

“How much do you charge, Ms. McCluck? I’d like to hire your services.” I stopped preening my wing to stare in the blue eyes of Barnard Crested- Duck, a snooty duck who ran a high class coop down the road. Of all the coops in all of Kansas, he had to waddle into mine. “I work for scratch, Mr. Crested-Duck. How can I help?” I rubbed a clod of dirt off my claw. In his golden voice he said, “I’m sure Hello, Poultry Pals! I don’t have to tell you that chicken eggs take 21 days to hatch.” Beware! Cupid’s arrows are out and taking aim. My hackles rise when I feel I wiped a smudge off my beak. the air from a passing one. Or maybe the neighbor has been practicing archery He continued, “And there’s no need again. Either way, it can be a tricky time of year on the farm. Cupid isn’t the to say that, like fine wine, duck eggs age only one mixing things up in the coop. Mother Nature changes the yard from a bit longer.” gooey mud to slick ice as fast as you can say “Kung Pow Chicken.” Sure was “Yes. Do you have something new a surprise to Babs as she raced to make the nesting box in time. Now that’s a to tell me then, sir?” version of the Chicken Dance I’d never seen before! “I’m sure you’ve heard of my Keep an eye on your tail feathers, Gertrude McCluck, C.I.C. award-winning Pekin ducks. I expanded my operation this year and added a red-faced beauty with the quietest disposition. But now I fear I mistook her silence for sweetness.” A-Mazing Eggs: I cocked my head. “Muscovy?” “Yes. My weakness is big birds, you see. But the Pekin ducks who began Find a path through the maze brooding the same day as her hatched their ducklings three days ago. She’s still sitting to crack this egg wide open. on the nest and refuses to get off.” “Well, that’s your problem.” “Should I get forceful with her?” Start “Heavens, no! Let your Muscovy brood for another four days and your patience and pocketbook will be rewarded.” What did Gertrude know about Muscovy eggs that Barnard Crested-Duck didn’t?

Answer on next page.

? e n ti n ale V y

Would you bem e b you d l ou

my Valentine?W

Finish

60 Backyard Poultry Parts of a Wing Jokes…Get the Yolk? Label the parts of the wing and use the answers to complete the clues in the Q. Why is it easy for newly hatched crossword. If you get stumped, use the word box for a clue. chicks to talk? A. Because talk is cheep!

(2. Down) (1. Down) Q. How do young chickens in love dance? (3. Across) Wing Word Box: A. Chick to chick! (5. Across) bar, bow, front, (1. Across) primaries, primary Q. What do you call a rooster with coverts, secondary, metal coils attached to each claw? (4. Across) wing shoulder A. A spring chicken!

(6. Across) Did You Know: There are over 300 distinct breeds recognized by the American Poultry Association. There are approximately 450 million chickens in the United States. If a rooster is not present in a flock of hens, the dominant hen will sometimes take the role, stop laying, and begin to crow. While rare, it does happen. Guess she could be called a henimist.

Answer Key

Minute Mystery Answer: Most duck eggs hatch in 28 days, but the unique Muscovy duck takes 35 days to hatch. It’s one more trait that makes them an odd, but interesting poultry to raise. For her efforts, Gertrude collected gratitude and a bag of scratch from Barnard Crested- Ooh, Baby! Duck. “Parts of a Wing” Answers: Draw a line from the name of the baby poultry to its adult match. Across: Down: duckling chicken 1. bow 1. bar 3. front 2. wing shoulder chick hen 4. primary coverts pullet goose 5. secondary poult cock 6. primaries cockerel duck gosling turkey

Gertrude McCluck, Chicken in Charge is assisted by chicken Is it wrangler Cyndi Gernhart. Find out more about Gertrude and Spring her book series for children and other fun activities at: Yet? www.GertrudeMcCluck.net

February/March, 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 61 abnormal, 3/5:22; roosting, chickens that turkeys, heritage production, 3/1:69 Breeds, 3/1:63 can’t, 3/5:22; scratch, chickens won’t Roosters: behavior, 3/5:22; comb, frozen, Stromberg, Loyl: poultry historian, eat, 3/3:26; shipping stress lowers immu- 3/1:32; crow of, 3/6:32 3/3:62 nity, 3/4:34; turkey walking off balance, Saddle: for hen, advantage of, 3/6:42; Turkeys: breeding, 3/5:46; critical list, 3/2:23; turkey with swollen bump on head pattern, 3/6:42 SPPAís, 3/5:47; diseases of, 3/5:47-48; and neck, 3/2:24; uncooked grains, feed- Salmonella: risk in eggs, 3/2:37 feeding, 3/5:46; Harvest Gold, 3/5:50; ing of, 3/2:21; vinegar, apple cider, 3/2:26. Seaside Feather Fanciers (SSFF): Bash history of, 3/5:42; housing, 3/5:48; pas- See also Answer Man at the Beach Poultry Show & 2008 APA ture, raising on, 3/1:69; recipes, historic, Hen apron/saddle, 3/6:42 National Convention, 3/6:6 modern day and safe cooking of, 3/5:52; History: of poultry breeding, 3/2:60; of Shows: knowledge source, 3/6:16; Ohio Regal Red heritage, 3/1:56; swollen bump shows in America, 3/5:58; Stromberg, National, 3/1:24; types of, 3/5:59 on head and neck, 3/2:24; varieties, old Loyl, biography of, 3/3:62 Society for Preservation of Poultry An- and/or rare, 3/5:47; varieties of, 3/5:43-46; Housing: brooder, from rabbit hutch, tiquities (SPPA): contact info, 3/6:16 walking off balance, 3/2:23 3/2:9; brooder, plan, 3/2:18; chicken trac- SPPA (Society for Preservation of Poul- Veterinarians: list, poultry friendly, tor, homemade, 3/6:58; fences, 3/2:46; try Antiquities): contact info, 3/6:16 3/1:18 muddy yards, solutions, 3/1:10; nest box SPPA News: Breeders Directory, 3/3:13, Vinegar: dosage, for animals, 3/2:27; “buckets,” 3/2:16; nest boxes, keeping 3/5:15; Critical List Adds Varieties, Up- uses of, 3/2:26 clean, 3/1:10; pen, homemade, 3/6:28; dates Waterfowl and Turkeys, 3/2:44; Winter: broodiness in, 3/1:30; challenges, plan, 3/3:57; turkeys with chickens, Getting the Right Breed for Your Locality, cheap tricks for, 3/1:22; comb, frozen, 3/6:38 3/4:12; Good News in Hard Times, 3/5:15; 3/1:32 Humor: “The Fence,” 3/2:49 Increase Your Poultry Knowledge, 3/6:16; Youth: photo contest, 3/1:20. See also Incubating tips, 3/5:63 Mini Fowl Trust Sites Showcase Rare McCluck, Gertrude Kaiyodo: Onagadori, figurine of, 3/6:12 Kean, Ron (Answer Man): 3/1:30; 3/2:21; 3/3:25; 3/4:32; 3/5:22; 3/6:38. Subscribe or Renew Today! See also health Management: geese, too many, 3/3:22 McCluck, Gertrude: 3/1:70; 3/2:58; Backyard Poultry 3/3:60; 3/4:60; 3/5:60; 3/6:54 Dedicated to more and better small-flock poultry. Meat: canning & storing safely, 3/1:50; duck, to cut up, 3/5:57; duck confit, The only magazine in America that celebrates the whole chicken (and other fowl)— 3/5:54; heritage breeds vs. Cornish Cross, for their beauty, their interest, their service to humanity as well as gastronomically. 3/1:64; storage guide, 3/1:49; thawing Ba c k y a r d Po u l t r y salutes the whole chicken in all their times, 3/1:50; tough, cause of 3/6:8; tur- wondrous forms and colors. Yes, it covers breeds, hous- BackyardVolume 3, Number 2 April/May, 2008 key, safe cooking of, 3/5:52 ing and management—everything you’d expect to find Poultry National Animal Identification System in a professionally-produced magazine dedicated to Dedicated to more and better small-flock poultry poultry, and more! (NAIS): backyard flocks, 3/3:6; sus- pended indefinitely, 3/4:7 Who should be reading Onagadori: Kaiyodo figurine, 3/6:12; Backyard Poultry? Fun to Raise, roosters, photo of, 3/6/:12 Easy to Keep Bantams Keep Birds in and • 4-Hers and their leaders Predators out Pecking: causes of, 3/6:41 with Good Fences • Breeders and fanciers Cook, Clean, Store & Serve Incredible Edible Eggs Photo contest winners: 3/1:19; 3/2:28; • Hatchery professionals and other suppliers Plus: 3/3:48; 3/4:40; 3/5:62; 3/6:48 • The Nene goose • Everyone who keeps a few birds for • The Delaware chicken • The future of gamebirds • Build a brooder $4.95 US • $6.95 Canada • Just for the fun of it Pluckers: building from scratch, 3/3:53; entertainment, beauty, eggs, and for fun ...and more inside! materials list, 3/3:52; Whizbang: afford- • and everybody who has ever dreamed of Every aspect of poultry-keeping you can think of (and some that will able, homemade, 3/3:52 caring for a small flock of one of mankind’s surprise and delight you!) Recipes: Basil & Mozzarella Balls Tian, most interesting and valuable animal companions! 3/2:31; Broth, 3/1:52; cocktails with egg, 3/2:36; Deviled Eggs, 3/2:31; Duck Chickens, water- Confit, 3/5:54; egg recipes, international, 3Yes! Start my subscription to Ba c k y a r d Po u l t r y . fowl, turkeys, m m 3/3:50; Hard-cooked Eggs, 3/2:31; meat, guineas… if you 1 full year $21 (6 issues) 2 years, $35 (Save $7.00!) canning & storing safely, 3/1:50; Pasta now have a small Name______with Fried Eggs and Parmigiano-Reg- flock, intend to purchase one, or giano, 3/3:50; Ramos Gin Fizz, 3/2:37; Address______ever dreamed of Shakshuka, 3/3:50; Tortilla Espanola, having some of City, State, Zip______3/3:51; Turkey, historic, 3/5:52; Turkey, these birds grace modern day, 3/5:52; turkey, safe cooking your backyard, Mail to: Backyard Poultry of, 3/5:52; Sponge Cake, 3/2:66 start or renew 145 Industrial Dr., Medford, WI 54451 your subscription Resources: chickens, to improve produc- today! or call toll-free: 800-551-5691 tion, 3/1:69; poultry information, 3/2:6;

Backyard Poultry eed that’s best for you! Inside: A guide to help choose the br VolumeVolume 2, NNumberumber 2 7 Backyard Poultry’s BackyardApril/MayApril/May, 200

k poultry more andltry better small-fl ocock poultry Back Issue List PouDedicated to more and better

April/May, 2006 Vol. 1/2 Dec, 2007/Jan, 2008 Vol. 2/6 Polish • Traditional Breeding Programs for • The Delightful Dominique The Royalty of Poultry 1 0 Steps The Home Flock to Raising Chickens Poultry Predator Identifi cation — The Fir • The Japanese Bantam st Step To Deterrence the Easy Way! BackyardVolume 2, Number 4 August/September • Chick Success: Start Those , 2007 • Auto-Sexing Geese Chickens in the 5 Volume 2, Number er, 2007 Greenhouse October/Novemb Birds Right! PLUS: Po • Maintain Poultry Health & Egg bird for Everyone • A Game ultry Backyard Dedicated to • Improve Your Hatch Rate more and better small-fl ock poultry • The American Gray Goose • Working With the Cock(s) in the • Gu inea Hens & Motherhood Laying Through the Winter lt...andr more inside!y ultryu more and better small-fl ock poultry Flock PoDedicated to Raising a Critically • Serama: World’s Smallest Chicken Endangered Breed: April/May, 2008 Vol. 3/2 The Java • Managing Poultry on Pasture with • Bantams: Fun to Raise, Easy to Keep Experience Electronet • Keep Birds in and Predators Out Raising Ducks Ducks • The Muscovy Raising Ducks for Eggs • Bantam Raising & Training • Rats in Your Poultry Exhibition Poultry With Good Fences Health Pg. 49 Flock Answerman • Sticktight Fleas • The • Cook, Clean, Store & Serve Controlling Mites

Poultry Housingeady-Made Shelters Aug/Sept, 2006 Vol. 1/4 Building a Pasture Shelter • Broiler Pens • R Incredible, Edible Eggs Plus: Designing Your Royal Palm Turkeys Pasture Shelter Golden Pheasants Pg. 22 • Make Your Own Feed • Nene Geese Showing Waterfowl and more inside! • Homestead Butchering • Delaware Chickens • How to Bathe That Bird • Chicks in the City: Hens Help Build a June/July, 2008 Vol. 3/3 • Turkeys: History, Culture & Varieties Community • Gardening with Guineas • Plymouth Rocks: The Heirloom Breed • Vacation Care for Your Flock • Making Duck Confit Oct/Nov, 2006 Vol. 1/5 • Integrating Poultry Flocks • Portable Chicken Run • Make it Yourself: The Whizbang: An Dec, 2008/Jan, 2009 Vol. 3/6 • Turkey History & Varieties Affordable Homemade Poultry Plucker • The Cock’s Crow • Predator Control • The Hardy Asil • Feeding the Flock From Homestead’s Oct/Nov, 2008 Vol. 3/5 • Preparing Poultry for Winter Resources • One Dozen Tips & Tricks to • Dubbing to Prevent Frostbite • Integrating Chickens of Different Simplify Poultry Keeping • Youth Focus: 5 Youth-Related Articles Ages For more information on the content of back issues, please visit our website: Dec, 2006/Jan, 2007 Vol. 1/6 www.backyardpoultrymag.com • Winter Care for Your Poultry • Wyandotte Bantams Only $4 each... while supplies last. • The Neglected Goose • Guinea Fowl Circle the issues of your choice. (Note: Past issues not listed are sold out.) • Pigeons 1/2 1/4 1/5 1/6 2/2 2/4 2/5 2/6

• Make a Poultry Saddle 3/2 3/3 3/5 3/6 April/May, 2007 Vol. 2/2 Name ______• 10 Steps to Raising Chickens • Polish: The Royalty of Polish Address______• Chickens in the Greenhouse • Choosing the Breed That's Best for You City______State______Zip______Aug/Sept, 2007 Vol. 2/4 Phone number ______• The Java Experience: Raising a Critically Endangered Breed Credit Card #______Exp______• Designing Your Pasture Shelter: Choose the Option That’s Right for You Signature______• Raising & Training Exhibition Poultry (Only required when paying with credit card.) • Poultry Predator Identification: The First Step to Deterrence Mail this form along with $4 per issue plus $2.50 shipping/handling per complete order to: Oct/Nov, 2007 Vol. 2/5 Ba c k y a r d Po u l t r y Ba c k Is s u e s • Raising Ducks 145 Industrial Dr., Medford, WI 54451 • Controlling Mites in the Flock 800-551-5691 • Royal Palm Turkeys • Golden Pheasants We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover.

64 Backyard Poultry Backyard Poultry Breeders Directory Have birds for sale? Advertise in the Backyard Poultry Breeders Directory for less than $4.50 a month. Your ad will be seen by more than 50,000 poultry enthusiasts who read every issue. Fill out the order form and return it today!

Associations Dominique Large Fowl. Leghorns Pickup at farm or shows. Ship chicks. AMERICAN BRAHMA CLUB, Sandy Kavanaugh, North Carolina Sec./Treas., 216 Meadowbrook Rd., Richmond, KY Doves 40475. Phone: 859-369-7244; Fax: 859-369-5659; LANDELORE BROWN LEGHORNS, Mark At- . Promoting the Majestic Ones! AMERICAN DOVE ASSOCIATION, Denny Stapp, 7037 tion, utility Brown Leghorns, Single Comb Light & Dark Membership dues: Adults/Partnership/Farm $15/yr., US Haynes Rd., Georgetown, IN 47122. 812-923-3483. Brown Leghorns. Show, breed stock only. Will airship. Juniors $10/yr., Canadian $15/yr., Foreign $20/yr. Standard & bantams. ARAUCANA CLUB OF AMERICA. Promoting the Dues $20, $16 senior, $10 junior. Bimonthly newsletter. tufted, rumpless, blue egg laying Araucana. $20.00 an- Member directory. Join over 500 members. Old English nual dues includes quarterly newsletter, breeders guide, e and Araucana Handbook. Mail inquiries to: Araucana Faverolles Connecticut Club of America, 207 Pickens Drive, Pendleton, South Ohio TONY BEZOK, 11 Gelding Hill Rd., Sandy Hook, CT Carolina 29670-9727. Visit our website and forum: 06482. 203-426-9160. Old English Game bantams, COMER’S POULTRY, Leisha & Stephanie Comer, Black & Silver Duckwing. Can ship. 14499 Kettlersville Rd., Wapakoneta, OH 45895. DOMINIQUE CLUB OF AMERICA. Boosting America’s 419-516-8136. Faverolle: Rhode Island Reds Oldest Breed Since 1973, Large Fowl and Bantam. Salmon, Black, Blue, White & Buff. Also Jersey Giant: $10.00 Annual Dues. Contact: Bryan K. Oliver, Secre- Black & Blue. Florida tary, 948 West Bear Swamp Road, Walhalla, SC 29691. Game Birds RHODE ISLAND RED CHICKS, 727-388-9456. Phone: 864-638-5650 Rhode Island EASTERN CAROLINAS BANTAM BREEDERS ASSO- Indiana Red chicks/eggs, low prices, best quality. Large and small orders ok. CIATION POULTRY CLUB, Kevin Old, 803-243-3840. WOODSIDE AVIARY, James Kotterman, Peru, IN. 765-985-2805. Pheasants: The Golden Pheasant, Gigi Sebrights Golden, Lady Amherst, Temminck Tragopan, Silver, GUINEA FOWL BREEDERS ASSOCIATION. GFBA Swinhoe, Brown Eared. will encourage, support, and educate people as to the Florida benefits in raising guinea fowl and provide information Maine BLACKBURN’S QUALITY BANTAMS, Wayne Black- and support to those who own or plan to own them. burn, PO Box 736, Anthony. FL 32617. 352-622-4622. MID-COAST MAINE BIRD FARM, Scott O’Brien, PO Golden Sebrights and Buff Sebrights. Box 243, Jefferson, ME 04348. 207-549-5473. Quail: INTERNATIONAL WATERFOWL BREEDERS ASSO- Bobwhites in Normal, Mexican Speckled, Gray and Seramas CIATION. Promoting all breeds of Exhibition Ducks and Orange. Also Valley, Gambel’s, Blue Sealed, Coturnix, Geese. Quarterly Newsletters, Breeders Guide, Master Mountain and Benson. Partridge: Philby’s and Barbary. Louisiana Exhibitor Awards, and more! Please go to for more information. Lady Amherst and Goldens in Red, Dark Throated and PO Box 159, Vacherie, LA 70090. 225-265-2238. Peach. I ship started and adult birds, and hatching NANKIN CLUB OF AMERICA, Mary Ann Harley, 195 eggs in season. Serama. Macedonia Rd., North Augusta, SC 29860. Minnesota Silkies Promoting the rare, beautiful little Nankin bantam. OAKWOOD GAME FARM, INC., PO Box 274, Princ- $10.00 for annual membership. Includes quarterly eton, MN 55371. 800-328-6647. We sell day-old pheasant and chukar partridge at major shows. AMBER WAVES SHOW SILKIES, Debbie Hosley, 1320 chicks and eggs. Mountain Ave., Norco, CA 92860-2852. 951-736-1076. PLYMOUTH ROCK FANCIERS CLUB OF AMERICA, Guineas Bearded Silkie bantams, Partidge, Black, Blue, Silverhill, AL 36576. WINTERS GUINEA FARM, Ralph Winter, 21363 White bloodlines. Pine Ln., New Vienna, IA 52065. 563-853-4195. Guinea Various Rd., Cridersville, OH 45806. 419-227-9385. California CHICKEN RIDDLE, Bridget, Hunter & Mackenzie ROSECOMB BANTAM FEDERATION, Steven Beaty, Japanese Bantams Riddle, 3030 Orestimba Rd., Newman, CA 95360. Secretary/Treasurer, PO Box 126, Portales, NM 88130. Indiana 209-485-1413. Large 575-359-1074. Rosecomb bantams––The dom, IN 47431. 812-859-4873. Quality birds only. Ship nationwide. Cornish, Salmon Faverolles. Rosecomb Bantam Federation is rich with tradition from the past. I invite you to become a part of our great Jersey Giants Florida Federation and help return the Rosecomb bantam to the forefront of our fancy. PAMELA JOANNE WAGNER, PO Box 224, Lithia, FL Indiana 33547. 813-650-0806 or 813-465-1761. Malaysian Serama, Japanese, Bearded 7030 S. Bloomington Trail, Underwood, IN 47177. Silkie. Minnesota 812-752-7825. Blues, Splash, Dr., Spring Grove, MN 55974. 507-498-5108. Bred for color and size. yard Poultry, August/September, 2007, pages 62-63. Also IL 62863. 618-262-8389. Eggs for sale from show SQ Rhode Island Red & White Rock bantams. bantams, $17 per dozen freight paid. Buff Orpington, Dominique Wyandotte & Old English bantams. Ohio Ohio NEW HAMPSHIRE BANTAM, Tim Johnson, 17650 NATURE’S HATCHERY, Naperville, IL. 630-428-7860 STICHLER’S POULTRY FARM, Mike Stichler, 1120 W. Poe Rd., Weston, OH 43569. 419-353-0424. Black Chickens: Ameraucana, Ancona, Australorp,

December 2008/January 2009 www.backyardpoultrymag.com 65 Backyard Poultry Breeders Directory

Belgian D’anver, Brahma, Broilers, Buckeye, Campine, eggs and day old chicks. Online ordering at or by phone 301-447-3611. Owatonna, MN 55060-1071. 507-451-6782. Large Delaware, Dominique, Dutch, Faverolle, Fayoumi, fowl: Wyandottes, Rhode Island Reds, Rhode Hamburg, Houdan, Japanese, Java, Jersey Giant, Michigan Island Whites, Java, Giants, Buckeye, Dominique, ™ Jungle Fowl, Lakenvelder, Langshan, Leghorn, Long ChickHatchery.com, John W. Blehm, 4599 Lange Rd. Brahma, Langshan, Cochins, Dark Brown & Black Crower, Marans, Minorca, Old English, Orloff, Orping- Birch Run, MI 48415-8137. bantam Ameraucana, Lakenvelder, Vorwerk & Polish, Houdan, Hamburg, Faverolle, Welsummer, Sebright, Serama, Sicilian, Silkie, Spanish, Sultan, Hamburg, large fowl Ameraucana & Chantecler. Campine, Cubalaya, Sumatra, Amerancauna, Naked PoultryNet Sumatra, Sussex, Turken, Welsummer, Wyandotte. Neck. Games: La Fleche, Crevecoeur. Bantam: DR. WILLIAM PATTERSON, 68333 Dequindre, Oak- Ducks: Appleyard, Australian Spotted, Buff, Magpie, Modern Game, Rock, Rhode Island Red, Leghorn, land, MI 48363. Exhibition Call, Campbell, Cayuga, Crested, Harlequin, Indies, Naked Neck, Polish, Ameraucana, Cochin, Brahma, birds starting at $50. Rosecombs, Polish, D’Uccles, Mallard, Muscovy, Mandarin, Orpington, Pekin, Rouen, Faverolle, Langshan, Frizzle, Silkie, Sultan, Wyan- Buff Sebrights. Runner, Swedish, Wood Duck. Geese: Embden, dotte, Mille Fleur, Buckeye, Old English, Ancona. Toluose, Chinese, African, Pilgrim, Roman, Buff, Po- KIDS & FEATHERS SUPERIOR HATCHING EGGS, Geese: Canada, Egyptian, China, African, Pomera- meranian, Barhead goose, Egyptian. Turkeys: Broad Bonnie Dreos, 6975 120th Ave., Fennville, MI 49408. nian Ducks: Muscovy. Turkeys: Black, Slate, Bronze, Breasted, Wild, Bourbon Red, Naragansett, Blue 269-543-4544. Small Red, Palm, Beltsville, Eastern Wild, Narragansett, Slate, Black, Midget White, Royal Palm, Standard amount only 12-24 eggs. Quail, Frizzle, green eggs, exhibition fowl. Bronze, White Holland. Guineas, Pheasant, Quail, Mille Fleur, Guinea. Peafowl, etc. Over 400 varieties! FREE catalog. Ohio Minnesota ERIC MARKLEY, 19454 Miller Rd., Wapakoneta, OH Iowa ADRIAN & MARY ANN RADEMACHER, 9185 Klein 45895. 419-568-7402. QUALITY PULLETS, Verle Steere, 19358 135th St., Dr., Waconia, MN 55387. 952-442-4031. Chicks & White Leghorns, large fowl, bantams. Will deliver to Greene, IA 50636. 641-823-5553. Excellent livability. adults in Std. Black Minorca and SC & RC Rhode poultry shows that I attend. Large brown eggs. Do well on range. All floor grown. Island Reds. Bantams in Barred Rocks and White & OAK GROVE FARM, Tom Stricker , 9660 Hemple Rd., Bovans Brown. Black Wyandottes Germantown, OH 45327. 937-855-4874. Polish, Phoenix, Yokohama. 800-458-4473. Specializing Middle River, MN 56737. 218-222-3556. Grey, Buff Oklahoma in Cornish Rock broilers. Also offering baby chicks, & White Africans, Grey & Buff Pomeranians, Brown ducklings, goslings, bantams, exotics, turkeys, Guin- Chinese, Sebastopol & Buff geese, Rouen, Silver SOUTHSIDE HATCHERY, John Allison, 12447 NS eas, pheasants. Free catalog. MC/Visa/Discover. Appleyard, Pekin, White & Black Crested, Saxony, 3570, Seminole, OK 74868. 405-382-1346. Large fowl: Rhode Island Maryland Blue, Black, Grey (Mallard), and Emory Penciled Red, Barred Rock, Deleware, Americana, Black WHITMORE FARM. Black & Blue Ameraucana, Dela- Runners, White, Grey, Snowy & Pastel Call ducklings. Australorp, Red Sexlink, Black Sexlink, White Leg- ware, Welsumer, and Brown-Red Marans. Hatching Free brochure. horn, Brown Leghorn, Ancona, Black Minarca, Wells Summers and Buff Orpington; Guinea fowl: Purple, White, Pearl, and Lavender; Bantams: Seabrights, OE Spangle and OE Silver Duck Wing; Turkeys: Royal Breeders Directory Order Form Palm and Standard Bronze; Ducks: Pekin, Ancona, Mallard and Call. Please call or write to receive your free brochure today. The “Instant” Fence! Classification/Breed:______Pennsylvania Your Farm Name:______DICK HORSTMAN, 5 Kings Creek Rd., Burgettstown, Easy & fast to install and remove. Ask for our 2 unique booklets—both free! PA 15021. 724-729-3701. Exhibition. Quality large fowl & bantams. Eggs, Equipment That Works! chicks & adults. What is it? Address:______DONALD KRAHE, 2108 Wager Rd., Erie, PA 16509. A prefabricated fence that arrives at your Other netting options— 814-825-4008. Black Hamburgs large, Gold & Silver door as a complete roll. White vertical City, State, Zip:______Sebrights, Black Call ducks. No eggs-chicks. In addition to PoultryNet 12/48/3 strings are “welded” to black/white (shown here) we also offer PermaNet Phone Number:______Rhode Island electroplastic conductive horizontals. 12/48/3. Same mesh but much larger WARREN CARLOW, 274 Westcott Rd., Scituate, RI White plastic posts built into the net and stronger posts—harder to install/ Email/Website:______02857. 401-647-5888. every 12 ft. support the mesh. remove but more resistant to wind, ice, Quality exhibition large fowl, bantams. 48 in. tall. 12 horizontals. Verticals every snow, rain. Best semi-permanent fence Additional Words:______Wisconsin 3 in. A 164 ft. roll weighs less than 15 lbs. for poultry. BUTCH’S BIRDS POULTRY FARM, Airling Gunder- We also offer over 20 specialized son, N6465 Schwantz Rd., Pardeeville, WI 53954. How does it work? One Year Directory Listing (6 issues) $ 50.00 nets—for sheep, goats, rabbits & deer. 608-429-9960. Geese, ducks, chickens, NPIP. Additional Words $1.50 each: $ _____ horizontals present both a physical and a DAVID LEFEBER, 8648 Irish Ridge Rd., Cassville, WI Total amount enclosed: $ _____ pain barrier to birds and their predators. 53806-9616. 608-725-2179. Exhibition Wyandottes, To reduce energy loss, it should be moved Large fowl & bantams-Many Varieties. Eggs, chicks FREE SHIPPING— & adults. Also White Muscovys & Call ducks. Send before lush green grass grows into the on qualifi ed website orders. SASE with request. fence. That’s simple since a 164 ft. roll can be installed or removed in minutes without Mail this form along with your payment to: PURELY POULTRY, 920-359-0554. Great prices tools. Mesh is stretched only hand tight. on over 200 breeds: chickens, bantams, ducks, geese, Backyard Poultry turkeys, guineas, peafowl, pheasants, ornamental Uses? pheasants, chukars and quail. • To fence in most non-fl ying poultry 145 Industrial Drive, Medford, WI 54451 Waterfowl (chickens, ducks & geese). • To fence out dogs, foxes, coyotes, Virginia raccoons, opossum & skunks. 800-282-6631 Phone: 800-551-5691 FAX 715-785-7414 ANDY’S POULTRY, Andy Marsinko, 191 Major Wade Rd., Blue Ridge, VA 24064. 540-977-3950, Cell: • To enable poultry to be easily rotated www.premier1supplies.com email: [email protected] 540-588-4779. Adults only. from one grass area to another. Washington, IA

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Backyard Poultry 1 pg.indd 1 12/24/08 1:23:18 PM PoultryNet™

The “Instant” Fence! Easy & fast to install and remove. Ask for our 2 unique booklets—both free! Fences That Work! Equipment That Works! What is it? A prefabricated fence that arrives at your Other netting options— door as a complete roll. White vertical In addition to PoultryNet 12/48/3 strings are “welded” to black/white (shown here) we also offer PermaNet electroplastic conductive horizontals. 12/48/3. Same mesh but much larger White plastic posts built into the net and stronger posts—harder to install/ every 12 ft. support the mesh. remove but more resistant to wind, ice, 48 in. tall. 12 horizontals. Verticals every snow, rain. Best semi-permanent fence 3 in. A 164 ft. roll weighs less than 15 lbs. for poultry. We also offer over 20 specialized How does it work? nets—for sheep, goats, rabbits & deer. The close mesh spacing and the “live” horizontals present both a physical and a pain barrier to birds and their predators. To reduce energy loss, it should be moved FREE SHIPPING— before lush green grass grows into the on qualifi ed website orders. fence. That’s simple since a 164 ft. roll can be installed or removed in minutes without tools. Mesh is stretched only hand tight.

Uses? • To fence in most non-fl ying poultry (chickens, ducks & geese). • To fence out dogs, foxes, coyotes, raccoons, opossum & skunks. 800-282-6631 • To enable poultry to be easily rotated www.premier1supplies.com from one grass area to another. Washington, IA

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