Exhibition Poultry
Ever wondered what it takes to raise a truly show-stopping chook? Exhibition poultry isn’t just about having a good-looking bird - it’s about preserving history, perfecting genetics, and, let’s be honest, showing off a bit!
Whether you’re in it for the ribbons or just love a well-bred chook, poultry exhibitions are a fantastic way to connect with fellow enthusiasts, share knowledge and celebrate the best of the best.
At The Poodle and The Hen, we’re all about breeding top-quality exhibition birds and competing in various shows to keep standards high and chooks looking their absolute finest.
Characteristics of Exhibition-Quality Poultry
So what makes a chicken worthy of the winner’s circle? Here’s what judges (and us breeders) look for:
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Shape and Type
A well-balanced, symmetrical bird with harmony in proportions (length, depth & width of body), is essential.
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Feather Quality
Whether sleek, fluffy, or barred, feathers should be in top condition with no faults. That means good texture & markings, strong shafts and full feathered.
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Colour
Vibrant, true-to-breed colouration that meets the standard.
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Size and Weight
Each breed and bantams vs. standards have an ideal weight range that must be met for exhibition.
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Condition
This includes vigour, pigmentation and handling. Healthy, calm, and confident birds that are well-groomed and have a strong posture always stand out.
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Defects
Any departures from the breed standard will result in either a points reduction or disqualification.
At The Poodle and The Hen, we raise our birds according to the Australian Poultry Standards, ensuring they meet the highest expectations for competition and breed preservation.
The Poodle and The Hen’s Exhibition Breeds
At The Poodle and The Hen, we primarily focus on breeding and exhibiting Light Sussex and Leghorns - both renowned for their exceptional show quality and striking appearance. We also occasionally offer exhibition waterfowl, bred from fantastic blood lines our geese and ducks have won many awards over our exhibiting years.
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Leghorns
Explore BreedSleek, elegant, and full of personality, Leghorns are a standout in any exhibition. Their impressive posture, feather quality, and vibrant combs make them a popular choice among poultry enthusiasts.
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Light Sussex
Explore BreedWith their crisp white plumage and contrasting black markings, Light Sussex chickens are a timeless breed in the exhibition world. Known for their calm temperament and strong, well-proportioned bodies, they consistently perform well in the show ring.
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Pekin Ducks
Explore BreedA pristine white plumage, deep bodies, and a classic upright stance sets Pekin Ducks apart in the show ring. Bred for their uniformity, broad frame, and calm demeanour, these ducks are not only visually impressive but also reliable performers in exhibition classes across all levels.
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Muscovy Ducks
Explore BreedMuscovy Ducks bring a unique flair to the show circuit with their distinctive caruncles, sleek feathers, and confident posture. Known for their heavy build and impressive wingspan, these ducks display both strength and refinement, making them a standout breed in any competitive lineup.
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Emden/Embden Geese
Explore BreedRenowned for their impressive size, upright carriage, and strong bone structure, these geese combine elegance with power - traits that make them showstoppers in the waterfowl ring.
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Toulouse Geese
Explore BreedA breed of quiet dignity, known for their massive frame, deep keel, and soft grey plumage. With their slow, deliberate movements and calm nature, they bring a stately presence to the show ring.
We periodically have exhibition-quality birds available for sale. Whether you’re looking for a new show contender or simply want to add some top-tier genetics to your flock, we may have the perfect bird for you. Availability varies throughout the year, so if you’re interested, join our poultry waitlist or get in touch to find out what’s currently on offer!
Preparing Poultry for Exhibition
Want your bird to shine in the spotlight? Here’s what it takes:
- Training: Yes, chickens can be trained! Regular socialising and handling help them stay calm and collected on show day. You’ll also want to learn how to use your bird’s natural traits to your advantage, positioning them for maximum impact in the show pen.
- Diet & Health: Good food equals great feather quality, body condition, and overall health, so a well-balanced diet is a must. Managing weight is key—your bird should neither be too heavy nor too light according to its breed’s standard. Preventative health care also plays a big role in keeping your bird in top shape for competition.
- Grooming: A little wash, nail trim, and tidy-up go a long way in impressing the judges. You’ll want to explore the best drying techniques and feather care methods, along with learning how to properly clean and maintain combs and wattles.
With the right prep, your birds will be ready to strut their stuff like seasoned pros.
Navigating Poultry Shows
Whether you’re just stepping into the world of poultry exhibitions or you’ve been competing for years, understanding the different types of shows and how they work is key to success.
Here are the four main types of poultry shows in Australia:
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Local Shows
Community-based competitions, great for newcomers and experienced exhibitors alike.
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Regional Shows
A step up from local events, these attract a broader range of competitors.
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National Shows
The top-tier competitions where Australia’s best exhibition poultry come to compete.
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Specialised Shows
Focused on specific breeds or categories, perfect for showcasing niche poultry types.
Birds in these shows are generally divided into different categories based on type or species, this includes:
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Hard Feather
Birds with tight, glossy feathers that are bred for their upright posture and spirited nature.
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Soft Feather
Birds with looser, more abundant plumage and are judged for type, feather quality, and temperament.
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Bantams
These miniature chickens can either be true bantams or small versions of large breeds, and are popular for their compact size and showy appearance.
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Waterfowl
Ducks and geese are shown in separate waterfowl classes, with judging focused on breed-specific traits like carriage, size, feather condition, and colour.
Within these categories, birds are further grouped into classes based on factors like breed, variety and feather type.
And of course, poultry exhibitions come with a variety of prestigious awards, including:
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Best in Show
The highest honour awarded to the top bird of the competition.
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Reserve Champion
The runner-up, often just as impressive as the Best in Show winner.
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Specialty Prizes
Awards for specific breed categories or unique characteristics.
Whether you’re chasing ribbons or simply enjoying the experience, poultry shows offer a fantastic opportunity to showcase your birds and immerse yourself in the world of exhibition poultry.
Getting Started in Exhibition Poultry
Thinking of diving into the world of exhibition poultry? Here’s how to get started:
- Pick Your Breed: Choose a breed you love and that has a strong showing history.
- Do Your Homework: Read up on breed standards, join poultry clubs, and chat with experienced breeders.
- Find a Mentor: A bit of expert guidance goes a long way when you’re starting out.
- Start Local: While the competition might not be as fierce as at larger events, local shows are a fantastic way to start building your reputation and gain the experience needed for bigger competitions.
Before you know it, you’ll be hooked on the excitement of exhibition poultry!
Engage With Us
We love sharing our exhibition poultry journey and connecting with fellow enthusiasts!
- Follow Our Adventures or Meet Us at a Show: Check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for updates on what shows we attend, our results and behind-the-scenes fun.
- Get in Touch: After a top-notch bird? Have questions? Contact us today.
Exhibition poultry is an addictive (in the best way) hobby, and we’re here to cheer you on every step of the way!