10/26/2024
Had a “defining” moment today at the Abilene Poultry Association show. I was feeling some kind of way last night and was ready to give up on breeding silkies for exhibition altogether after a short 4 years in the game. I was to the point of considering liquidating ALL of my birds, incubators, pens, brooders, everything! Then I met Paige Kleckner and bombarded her with a barrage of questions about partridge silkies. She doesn’t know it, but she gave me hope I am on the right track and not to give up on the long game. Paige and I were the only ones showing partridge silkies today and MAN are her birds gorgeous and correct! Along with the judge gathering us silkie enthusiasts around to say that he was impressed with the type and color of the partridges gave me goose bumps with onion cutting ninjas almost getting me! Meant more to me than placing or winning a ribbon.
I’ve participated in 3 shows and never placed or even close (those white and black bearded silkie pullet/hen class is especially tough!) But I learned tricks and made contacts at each event to progress forward. I’d love to hear how other breeders fared in the show world in the beginning and to reinforce it’s okay not to place, to feel lost/disappointed, disheartened, frustrated. It’s normal, just don’t give up..play the long game as instant gratification probably isn’t in the cards.
With that being said..don’t be afraid to breed those challenging, colors like partridge, buff, chocolate, paints, splashes! And…bring…your lovely c**kerels and c**k birds! I had the only partridge c**kerel today. Lots of room to compete, compare, and enjoy comradery for the betterment of all silkie colors!
I’d like to thank the following breeders as I have either benefitted from your birds (including winning a waffle once😂) or your knowledge/expertise in the form of tutorials, videos, personal correspondence. Please don’t ever stop sharing your wisdom as it really makes a difference to us newbies.
VJP Poultry
Dymond Dreamz Country Corner LLC
Burlesque Poultry Page
Diva Girl Silkies
Harvest Breeze Farm
Red Barn Silkies
