Our blues are coming along slow and still need some work, but I think with this years breeding we will get some great show prospects. I will be crossing my black rooster on these hens this year to improve the blues.
When I first started in Orpingtons, I bought from almost every breeder out there without really doing much research about what to look for in show birds. The first birds I started out with were not good enough to cut it in the exhibition world. I had everything from yellow skin, to light eyes, enamel white in the lobes, and even some feathered shanks. Even though they were good friendly birds they had to go. I then decide to go to established show breeders to acquire my new stock. I took the previously mentioned birds to the auction or sold to people wanting pets. I hope you have learned from my mistake. When asking a breeder if their line is exhibition or show quality ask them what was the birds placing, how many Orpingtons were shown. I have heard people claim exhibition quality but never show. It is good to ask questions!!
