JUDGING PAST EGG PRODUCTION HENS
HANDLING QUALITIES
Handling qualities refers to the
condition of the pubic bones and abdomen.
|
|
Good: Thin and pliable pubic bones, lean skin and soft abdomen |
|
|
Poor: Thick pubic bones, thick skin, hard abdomen (means fat in the abdomen) |
EXAMPLES:
|
|
|
|
Good handling qualities:
Thin pubic bones and thin skin check out the video click
on back arrow of web browser to return to this page |
|
|
|
|
|
Poor handling qualities: Thick
pubic bones and thick skin check out the video click
on back arrow of web browser to return to this page |
|
To evaluate
handling qualities of live birds:
Gently feel
the pubic bones for sharpness and flexibility.
Take a pinch
of skin just below the pubic bone.
Roll this
skin gently between your thumb and finger to feel its thinness.
Feel the
softness or hardness of the abdomen:
Softness
means a lack of fat (and a good layer)
Hardness
means the presence of fat (and a poorer layer)
When
handling the hen, be careful not to damage her.
Be
especially careful with the pubic bones which can break easily if handled to
roughly.