20/08/2025
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NUTRITION FOR SHOW BIRDS
It’s nearly time for the Perth Royal, so we thought we’d put together our tips for getting your birds looking like champions.
Poultry is judged against the Australian Poultry Standards, and each breed has a scale of points. The scale covers important areas like type, condition, combs, legs and feet. If you’re getting into showing, reading the APS is the place to start.
🐔 FEEDING FOR TYPE:
While genetics is important, they must have adequate nutrition from hatching to reach their full growth and development potential. A diet that promotes healthy, balanced growth is vital. Fulfilling their daily requirements at each growth stage means they are able to develop correctly, without deficiencies that may lead to avoidable deformities.
🐔 FEEDING FOR CONDITION: When it comes to condition and appearance on the day, how should your birds look? Very healthy!
Your birds should look well conditioned with good muscle on them, full, shiny feathers and a healthy comb and wattle (if applicable).
➡ Protein is key when it comes to muscle building, skin and feather development. A feather alone is made up of 75% protein! A diet high in protein can help to get your birds looking their best.
➡ Fats/oils are also a key part of poultry diets, supplying energy, fatty acids and carrying important vitamins. Fats can help to add shine to feathers, and fatty acids contribute to skin health.
➡ Combs and wattles are a giveaway on your birds health. A healthy bird will have a bright and rosy wattle and comb, and judges look for this.
🐔 WHAT SHOULD YOU FEED? Balance is key! If you are adding more protein or fats, they must be in balance. The key vitamins and minerals must also be well balanced to make sure there are no deficiencies. Overfeeding certain food groups can be detrimental, for example a diet too high in energy may cause them to decrease their feed intake, and not get enough protein.
✅ TIP: The easiest way to make sure your bird is getting everything they need is with a premium, complete feed that is suitable for show birds.
T&R Premium Laying Pellets and Premium Laying Crumbles have been developed by our nutritionist team and are high protein, complete feeds that support the needs of show birds.
