THIS article was written before Ian passed away and it is his family's wish that we continue with this series of articles that he wrote for Smallholder.
This article was written before Ian passed away and it is his families wish that we continue with this series of articles that he wrote for Smallholder. I WOULD like to start by clarifying the term 'True bantam'; the definition of which is that they have no large counterpart of the same breed. Breeds that exist in both large and small versions are called 'Miniature Fowl', unfortunately many people still refer to them as Bantams. Examples of these breeds are Orpingtons, Rhode Island Reds, Wyandottes, etc. whereupon True bantams are Pekins, Nankins, Japanese and Belgians. Also two that we are covering this month; Dutch and Rosecomb.
THERE are many poultry keepers who never consider exhibiting their birds but enjoy great pleasure from showing the eggs that their hens have laid. Some readers might be surprised but I can assure them that egg showing is taken very seriously and anyone thinking of joining these exhibitors will receive a warm hearted welcome.
