🐓✨ Entered Your First Poultry Show? Here’s How to Get Your Bird Show-Ready in NZ!
First things first – congratulations! 🎉 Signing up for your very first poultry show is such an exciting step. Whether you’re showcasing a glossy bantam, a fluffy Orpington, or a dapper little quail, the thrill of getting your bird ready to strut its stuff is a whole new adventure.
If you’re wondering how to prepare your feathered superstar, don’t panic. Plenty of seasoned exhibitors share their tips, but here’s a straightforward, beginner-friendly guide to get you (and your bird) ready for the big day.
📖 Step 1: Learn the Rules
Every show is different, so grab a copy of the New Zealand Poultry Standard Book (your library might have it, or order from Poultry NZ). Birds are judged against this written standard, so it’s your ultimate prep guide.
🛁 Step 2: Wash, Rinse, Shine!
Yes, chickens get spa days too! The classic three-bucket method works wonders:
-
Bucket 1: Warm water + gentle soap.
-
Bucket 2: Plain warm water rinse.
-
Bucket 3: Warm water + a splash of vinegar to remove soap residue.
🪥 Use a toothbrush for tricky spots like feet, combs, and stubborn stains.
💡 Cotton swabs are perfect for delicate facial areas.
🗓️ Wash no later than 3 days before the show to let feathers regain their natural oils.
Pro tip: Keep them in a clean pen with deep bedding afterward to stay fresh!
✂️ Step 3: A Little Birdie Manicure
-
Trim nails, beaks, and (for males) spurs. Nail clippers or a Dremel with a sanding tip work great.
-
Check for straight toes (no bent or crooked ones).
-
Make sure your bird is mite- and lice-free.
A healthy, polished bird = happy judges.
🏋️ Step 4: Practice Show Time
Get your bird used to:
-
Being in a show cage.
-
Being handled gently.
A calm bird will impress the judges far more than a flustered one.
For extra glam, apply a little comb dressing to make wattles, combs, and legs shine. Think of it as poultry lip gloss! 💄🐔
🎒 What to Pack for Show Day
Don’t forget these essentials:
-
VetRx (or similar) – adds a healthy glow.
-
Cotton swabs + baby wipes – for last-minute clean-ups.
-
Towels – because accidents happen!
-
Cash – for auctions, raffles, or snapping up birds from other exhibitors.
-
Any required paperwork.
❓ Common Show Questions
👔 Is there a dress code for youth showmanship?
Not usually – but it can vary by club, so check first.
🐥 What’s the minimum age for junior showmanship?
8 years and up.
🏆 Why didn’t the “prettiest” bird win?
Shows aren’t beauty pageants! Birds are judged against the Standard of Perfection (SOP), covering everything from body shape to feather pattern. Judges may interpret the SOP slightly differently, which is why results vary.
🐓 Ready to Join the Flock?
If you’re local and loving the show scene, join your nearest club!
📍 Christchurch Poultry Bantam & Pigeon Club
📧 chchpoultryclub@gmail.com
✨ Showing poultry isn’t just about ribbons – it’s about learning, connecting, and celebrating these amazing birds. So go enjoy your first show. You and your feathered friend are going to shine! 🌟
ncpoultryandpigeonclub@gmail.com
