EARLY YOUNGSTERS
by Jim Emerton
Have a go, there may be a good one from November to February. All very interesting, and the more from certain pairings the merrier. Really early birds obviate the need for darkening and may be raced up to September. A consequence is the need to train the birds in May of their birth. Early bred natural birds are often lazy and go down like flies if left untrained, and often will not hold a candle to April hatched ones. Early bred cocks may do well on darkness and lightness systems later, especially widowhood cocks paired to old hens. A clever bird could well do 400 miles on the day of lib with skilful management. All birds of any age are as good as the innate potential in response to the environment. Breed as many as you can afford to keep. I do love latebreds for my stock, but not for racing.
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Elimar - January 2015
