Major A. Neilson Hutton "Longevity and fertility are pointers to a sound constitution and resistance to disease; furthermore, they are passed from one generation to another. On the other hand, the loss of fertility, decrease in hatchibility and young going wrong before maturity are danger signs which cannot be ignored. Cocks retain their fertility to a greater age than hens which, by reason of their sex, are prone to disorders of their generative organs and experience a higher mortality rate than cocks. However, the old hen which lays regularly and produces normal-sized and shaped eggs without apparent distress, from which hatch vigorous well formed youngsters is well worth breeding from just as long as she does so."
Ad Schaerlaeckens suggests that we weaken our birds by selecting only by performance. Longevity is proof of the natural health and vitality within the body. These birds survive and thrive in spite of our well planned health programs. Champion breeders naturally carry that special longevity gene, and can produce their like into a second decade.
Ad Schaerlaeckens suggests that we weaken our birds by selecting only by performance. Longevity is proof of the natural health and vitality within the body. These birds survive and thrive in spite of our well planned health programs. Champion breeders naturally carry that special longevity gene, and can produce their like into a second decade.
The Old Masters knew how important it was to keep the old Stalwarts in the breeding loft (where they died)! They represented the best of natural vitality, and had nature's approval to survive. Health and vitality must be the first selection criteria within the breeding loft.
Longevity helps identify which being's possess this all important natural health and vitality.
