As a family diving into the world of showing and raising chickens, we were advised to read The American Standard of Perfection and the Bantam Standard. Initially, these books felt overwhelming with their detailed descriptions, but after some reading, listening to podcasts, and talking with experienced poultry enthusiasts, they quickly became invaluable resources.
The Official Guides for Poultry Standards
These books, published by the American Poultry Association (APA) and the American Bantam Association (ABA), are the official standards for poultry breeds. They provide detailed guidelines on breed characteristics, including feather color, comb shape, posture, and temperament. These references are essential as we prepare to raise healthy birds that meet the criteria for heritage production and competitive showing.
A Little History
The American Poultry Association (APA) was founded in 1873, making it one of the oldest and most influential poultry organizations in the U.S. The APA’s mission is to promote the improvement and development of poultry through educational resources and support for poultry shows. Over the years, the APA has become an integral part of the poultry world, ensuring that standards for various breeds are preserved and upheld.
The American Bantam Association (ABA), established in 1914, specifically focuses on bantam chickens. It serves to promote the interests of bantam enthusiasts, encouraging the preservation of bantam breeds and the organization of bantam-focused poultry events. The ABA has played a significant role in preserving these smaller breeds and their distinct characteristics, ensuring that they remain a beloved part of poultry culture.
Benefits of These Books
These two books offer a wealth of information for anyone interested in raising chickens. The American Standard of Perfection is filled with breed descriptions and characteristics, helping us understand what each breed should look like in its ideal form. It ensures that we select chickens that meet high standards for both production and competition. the Bantam Standard, on the other hand, focuses specifically on bantams, which is perfect for us as we consider both types of chickens for our farm.
For beginners, these books are incredibly helpful. While some terminology is technical, the illustrations and explanations at the front of the books helped us understand parts of the bird, and disqualifications to watch for. As we explore local poultry shows, we refer to these books regularly to guide our decisions on which birds to focus on.
Why They’re Invaluable Resources
What stands out most is the level of expertise and passion reflected in these books. They not only describe the physical requirements of each breed, but they also provide valuable insight into the history and personality of each breed. These books are more than just manuals—they’re a window into the culture and competitive world of poultry breeding and showing. You can purchase The American Standard of Perfection and the Bantam Standard from the following official sources:
- American Poultry Association (APA) Store – The APA sells The American Standard of Perfection, including the latest editions.
- American Bantam Association (ABA) Store – The ABA offers the Bantam Standard, specifically focused on bantam breeds.
Additionally, you may find these books on:
- Amazon (availability may vary)
- eBay (for used or older editions)
- Specialty poultry supply stores
For the most up-to-date editions and official versions, purchasing directly from the APA or ABA is the best option.
Join the Poultry Community
If you want to deepen your understanding of poultry and connect with others in the community, joining the American Poultry Association (APA) or the American Bantam Association (ABA) is a great step. Memberships offer numerous benefits, including access to exclusive resources, networking opportunities, expert advice, and poultry-related events and shows. These organizations are essential for those serious about raising and showing poultry. By joining, you connect with other breeders and enthusiasts, and you’ll also help support the preservation of poultry standards and the future of poultry culture.
Need Extra Help Applying the Standards?
If you’re having trouble understanding and applying the written standards, there are helpful podcasts that break down the details and offer practical insights:
Reading, Understanding, and Applying A Written Standard – Part 1 – This podcast dives the historical tapestry of poultry breed standards, moving beyond the glossy sheen of the exhibition to reveal their profound influence on the breeds we adore today.
Reading, Understanding, and Applying A Written Standard – Part 2 – The second part continues the discussion and offers more guidance on the intricacies of a bird’s natural carriage and its dynamic response to the environment.
