edible endeavors
FEATHERED FRIENDS
Poultry fanciers gather at annual event this fall.
WRITTEN BY JEANNE LAUF WALPOLE
PHOTOS BY CANDICE NYANDO
Imagine viewing more than 800 backyard birds in all the colors of the rainbow and in every imaginable size and assortment. Well, at an upcoming event, that’s just what chicken, turkey, duck, and other bird enthusiasts can do. Various types of poultry will flaunt their finest plumage at the Northern Nevada Poultry Fanciers Association Annual Show at the Hutchings Cattle Co. spread in Fallon Oct. 18 – 20. The birds — some outrageously flamboyant — will be judged on their body types, colors, and carriage as part of this show, which uses standards developed by the American Bantam Association and the American Poultry Association.
The show also facilitates networking among the area’s eclectic group of bird aficionados. It also provides opportunities for novices to learn all about the art and passion of raising backyard poultry, according to D.D. Monroe, vice president of the NNPFA.
“It means hanging out with somebody who doesn’t think you’re crazy because you like chickens,” she says. “If you’re thinking about raising poultry, this is a good introduction. It’s also a good family activity.”
Learn the Basics
While strolling around the show grounds, attendees can check out the birds and learn the basics about feed, coops, and daily care. Folks can even purchase and swap birds.
Although the most common bird found in backyards is the chicken, it’s not unusual to find ducks, geese, turkeys, and even an occasional peacock. As the most prevalent species of bird in the world, chickens come in dozens of breeds that showcase a fascinating diversity of characteristics.
Founded about 10 years ago, NNPFA promotes and supports the vast world of poultry through education and exhibition of quality show birds.
“We want to raise awareness and to get rid of wives’ tales by educating people,” says Julie Peterson, the group’s secretary. “For example, a hen doesn’t need a rooster to lay eggs.”
Starting Young
Most people involved in NNPFA were first exposed to raising poultry as kids.
“I’ve had chickens off and on my whole life,” Peterson says.
Monroe explains that she got involved through activities with her kids through a 4-H group in Storey County that needed someone who had poultry.
With fewer young people being raised on farms, and with the demise of the Nevada State Fair, however, poultry fanciers hope that the NNPFA can do more to inspire and educate kids about the rewards of raising poultry.
“The kids are our future when it comes down to it,” Monroe says.
Jeanne Lauf Walpole is a Reno-based freelance writer who encourages families to attend the Fallon poultry show as an educational experience that could positively impact their lives.
Northern Nevada Poultry Fanciers Association Annual Show
Hutchings Cattle Co., 1001 Sheckler Cutoff, Fallon, Nev.
Admission is free; $5 entry fee for each bird judged
For details, call 775-847-7948, e-mail D.D. Monroe at Bitmorefarm@gmail.com, or visit www.Poultryfancier.wix.com/nnpfa.
