Birds flocking to Rangiora show
The 2023 National Poultry Show is nearly here, hosted this year in Rangiora by the North Canterbury Poultry and Pigeon Club, which is celebrating its 125th anniversary.
Judging commences on Friday morning, June 2, with the show open to the public Friday afternoon (2pm–6pm) and all day Saturday (9am5pm).
If you’ve never attended a poultry show, this is an eggcellent place to start.
With around 1300 birds on exhibit, you’re sure to find a few breeds that tickle your feathers. Over 60 breeds and varieties of poultry (both large and bantam) and waterfowl, plus a plethora of pigeons and caged birds, will be on display.
Fanciers from all over New Zealand will bring their top show birds, so this show will display the best birds in the country.
While it’s easy to admire the birds at poultry shows, most people don’t realise how much hard work goes into producing top-quality show birds, which are typically the result of many years of careful, selective breeding.
Serious fanciers may hatch several hundred chicks each year, hoping to get a few that will outshine their competition at winter poultry shows. The best birds are those that most closely match their breed standard
– and that have that cocky, eye-catching ‘‘Look at me!’’ attitude.
Show preparation for potential superstars often starts three months in advance. Breeders separate their best birds from the main flock, ensuring that feathers stay in top condition.
Just before the show, all birds get bathed, which involves a good shampooing in a tub of warm water.
Most birds enjoy their bath; some get so relaxed that they might fall asleep; others have a paddle around the tub. Afterwards, birds get wrapped in
towels while they (perhaps) get a pedicure. Legs and combs might be oiled, and then the birds get tucked away in a warm crate for the night.
In the morning, a beautifully clean bird is ready for the show pen. Exhibitors take their birds to the show the day before judging; these penning days are an enjoyable chance to catch up with old friends and eye the competition.
Judging begins the next morning, finishing with the selection of the top prizewinner: Best in Show – every exhibitor’s dream!