With so many good Fantails in the judging show pens these days, I have observed that the combination of the well-bred bird, the well-conditioned bird and the carefully groomed bird, is the combination that wins. Just one of these qualities is not enough. One without the other is to invite trouble.
The 'perfect' Fantail that will not show well because it is frightened, ill, dirty, or has been neglected, will find insurmountable keen competition when the judge makes his official comparison of the Fantails before him. lt has been said that many are penned but too often poorly staged.
The spirit of rivalry in comparing one's best birds with the best from other fanciers' lofts dictates that we start with a foundation of the very best Fantails we can obtain. I have found that owners or breeders and exhibitors in this hobby are most generous and helpful people; a fraternity of friendly, neighbourly fanciers, intensely interested in their hobby to produce the ever improved Fantail.
Nowadays the beginner can start right, it has not always been the case. He can now progress nicely by acquiring Fantails with years of careful breeding behind them; birds with fixed qualities and nice type. By buying the very best one can afford and staying with the strain it is possible to raise one's own show prospects and take pride in doing so. The old saying 'from nothing comes nothing' is most appropriate.
The Fantail Standard quite clearly mirrors the ideal Fantail, with well proportioned round bodies on good straight legs, full front, tight wings, good head placement, feathers tight and hard rather than soft and fringed. Essential too is a proportionally large tail, well carried, that has plenty of top tail and overall appears as almost a full circle. A blend of all these qualities shows us a Fantail in well-balanced proportions.
All of this must be combined with the ability of the bird to show. A judge looks for demonstrated energy, calm self-assured stage presence and a bird up on its toes. I have always observed that the experienced exhibitors, the real experts, have mastered the art of setting down a Fantail in the judging pen. This is indeed a talent to be acquired.
Quality, superb condition and ability to show are the necessary combination for a bird to win its class. In preparing your birds for the show pen it is most important that they are in the best condition and in excellent health. To achieve this the proper feeding of grains, grit, clean water and a programme of helpful medication is a must. lt is essential that the birds are accustomed to being handled, are not frightened and have been trained in the walking pen. All show birds should be clean as a whistle. However, if their feathers have become soiled, preparation of birds for the show may well include cleaning the feathers with hot water.
Some fanciers use a teaspoon of soap powder. Careful drying is important (try and pinch your wife's hairdryer. It really annoys them). Good grooming includes cleaning the feet and rings of your birds, as it does irritate the judge and his steward if they cannot read the ring number easily. Some birds need their claws clipping. A touch of vaseline enhances the nice red colour of the feet and legs. The tail will also look much better if laced and not left to its own devices (think of Miss World not brushing her hair).
Thus a Fantail that is healthy, is of good type, has been well groomed and is clean will have every opportunity to win on the day. Good luck!
SHOW TIME
