What is the correct way to handle poultry for judging?

When judging poultry, the correct way to handle the birds is to do so firmly yet gently, minimizing stress. This approach is essential for several reasons. Firstly, poultry can be sensitive animals, and rough or careless handling can lead to undue stress, which may affect their behavior and physical condition during the judging process. A calm and controlled technique allows the judge to assess the bird's characteristics more accurately without causing distress or panic.

Using a firm grip ensures the bird is secure and prevents it from flapping or moving erratically, which could lead to injury or a negative experience for both the bird and the handler. Gentle handling minimizes the risk of harm to the bird and promotes a more favorable presentation during the evaluation.

Furthermore, minimizing stress is critical to ensure that the overall health and well-being of the poultry are maintained, which is a key consideration in any judging scenario. Thus, the correct handling technique reflects an understanding of animal welfare principles and enhances the credibility of the judging process.