Oxford Old English Game Fowl Breed Information

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The Oxford Old English Game Fowl breed has been a cornerstone of the poultry world for centuries, with its rich history and distinctive characteristics making it a favorite among fanciers and breeders alike. Originating in the Oxfordshire region of England, this breed has been developed over the years through careful selection and breeding, resulting in a bird that is not only stunning to look at but also possesses a robust constitution and a strong will to survive.

One of the key reasons why the Oxford Old English Game Fowl has endured for so long is its unique blend of attributes, which make it an excellent choice for a variety of purposes. Whether you're looking for a reliable egg-layer, a hardy and disease-resistant bird for your backyard flock, or a stunning showpiece for the exhibition circuit, the Oxford Old English Game Fowl is sure to impress.

Origins and History

The Oxford Old English Game Fowl breed has its roots in the early 19th century, when it was developed in the Oxfordshire region of England as a specialized fighting bird. At that time, cockfighting was a popular blood sport, and the Oxford Old English Game Fowl was bred specifically for its strength, agility, and ferocity in the pit.

However, as attitudes towards animal welfare began to shift, and cockfighting was eventually banned in England in 1835, the Oxford Old English Game Fowl breed began to take on a new role. Breeders started to focus on developing the bird's unique characteristics, such as its stunning plumage and robust constitution, and the breed quickly gained popularity as a show bird and ornamental piece.

Breed Characteristics

So, what makes the Oxford Old English Game Fowl breed so special? Here are just a few of the key characteristics that set this breed apart:

• Stunning plumage: The Oxford Old English Game Fowl is renowned for its striking appearance, with a range of colors including black, blue, and red, often with intricate patterns and markings.
• Robust constitution: This breed is known for its hardiness and resistance to disease, making it an excellent choice for backyard flocks and small-scale farming operations.
• Strong will to survive: The Oxford Old English Game Fowl is a feisty bird that is not afraid to stand up for itself, making it a great choice for those looking for a confident and assertive breed.
• Good egg-laying abilities: While the Oxford Old English Game Fowl is not primarily kept for its egg-laying abilities, it is a reliable layer of around 200-220 brown eggs per year.

Breed Standards and Classification

The Oxford Old English Game Fowl breed is classified as a heavy breed, with roosters weighing in at around 9-10 pounds (4-4.5 kg) and hens weighing around 8-9 pounds (3.5-4 kg). The breed is recognized by a number of poultry associations, including the American Poultry Association and the British Poultry Standards.

In terms of breed standards, the Oxford Old English Game Fowl is known for its distinctive characteristics, including:

• Head shape: The head should be broad and flat, with a short, curved beak and a distinctive forehead.
• Comb: The comb should be small and pea-like, with five distinct points.
• Eyes: The eyes should be dark and expressive, with a keen, alert expression.
• Body type: The body should be broad and muscular, with a deep, well-sprung ribcage and a broad, flat back.

Care and Management

When it comes to caring for your Oxford Old English Game Fowl, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some key tips for ensuring the health and happiness of your birds:

• Housing: Provide a spacious, well-ventilated coop with plenty of room to move around. The Oxford Old English Game Fowl is an active breed that needs plenty of exercise, so consider adding a fenced run or enclosure to your coop.
• Diet: Feed a high-quality layer feed or breeder feed, supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables as needed. Avoid overfeeding, as the Oxford Old English Game Fowl can be prone to obesity.
• Health checks: Regular health checks are essential for detecting any potential health issues early on. Keep an eye out for signs of illness or disease, and consult a veterinarian if you have any concerns.

Breeding and Showing

The Oxford Old English Game Fowl breed is a popular choice among breeders and exhibitors, thanks to its stunning appearance and robust constitution. Here are some tips for breeding and showing your Oxford Old English Game Fowl:

• Breeding: When breeding your Oxford Old English Game Fowl, focus on selecting birds with the best characteristics and attributes. Consider breeding for specific traits, such as egg-laying ability or plumage color.
• Showing: When showing your Oxford Old English Game Fowl, focus on presentation and grooming. Make sure your birds are clean and well-prepared, with any feathers or defects carefully trimmed or removed.

Conclusion

The Oxford Old English Game Fowl breed is a true gem of the poultry world, with its stunning appearance, robust constitution, and strong will to survive making it a favorite among fanciers and breeders alike. Whether you're looking for a reliable egg-layer, a hardy and disease-resistant bird for your backyard flock, or a stunning showpiece for the exhibition circuit, the Oxford Old English Game Fowl is sure to impress.

We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the Oxford Old English Game Fowl breed, and has inspired you to learn more about this incredible bird. Whether you're a seasoned breeder or just starting out, we encourage you to share your experiences and knowledge with others, and to continue the proud tradition of breeding and exhibiting this magnificent breed.