Our September book of the month selection is a great book for those who are interested in poultry genetics and breeding or may be interested in having a pictorial guide to every poultry breed imaginable. Storey’s Illustrated Guide To Poultry Breeds by Carol Ekarius is also a top resource to have on hand for children and youth who are showing poultry in 4-H or FFA, or for those showing poultry at American Poultry Association shows.

Classification and Genetics

The book begins with an in-depth discussion of the history of poultry across the world. You’ll also learn about the different classifications of the many types of poultry; turkeys, guineas, and chickens. Here, we also learn how to accurately sort out the differences between a species, a breed, and a variety within the poultry world. From there, a discussion continues about genetics and how different poultry characteristics are expressed through a bird’s genetic makeup. If you ever wanted to know more about how to create “self-blue” birds or how frizzle feathers happen, this book is for you.

Stunning Photographs

Storey’s Illustrated Guide To Poultry Breeds has full-color photographs of every poultry breed imaginable. Each breed’s photograph is accompanied by a description of the physical characteristics that point out the significant attributes of the breed. The descriptions highlight feather pattern and color, leg color, leg feathering, and beak or bill color. In many cases, difference in presentation between the genders of each breed is discussed.

The section discussing the chicken breeds is subdivided into the egg-laying breeds and the heavier-bodied meat-producing breeds. Keep in mind that the book only discusses purebred chicken breeds, so hybrids like the Golden Buff or the Cornish cross broiler are not included.

There are chapters dedicated to waterfowl, turkeys, guinea fowl, pigeons, quail, peafowl, and much more. You’ll find great selections of photographs, discussions on different breeds and varieties, and even some history.

If you are interested in a reference guide for breed identification and to have an in-depth study resource into poultry genetics, Storey’s Illustrated Guide To Poultry Breeds by Carol Ekarius is a must-have in your poultry library. Don’t forget to use coupon code BOTM23 to take 20% off your purchase and receive a free vinyl sticker.