The annual 4-H chicken show and sale is Nov. 8 at the Walker County Ag Center in Rock Spring. The show begins at 6 p.m., with the announcement of winners and auction of hens following the judging at approximately 7 p.m. The event is free, and auction proceeds will benefit Walker County 4-H.

The 4-H chicken project was developed to give local youth an opportunity to learn about animals without the cost and space challenges of other 4-H livestock projects. Last spring, 20 local 4-H members enrolled in the chicken project. They each received 10 baby chickens to take home and raise for the show. The 4-Hers are required to bring their three best hens to show and sale. The chickens will be auctioned in pens of three with the proceeds going to the 4-Hers. The public is invited to the 4-H chicken show and sale. Please bring your own cage or pen if you plan to purchase chickens.

The chickens are black sex links, a brown egg commercial cross layer. This cross, developed for efficient egg production is known by a variety of names, including Black Beauties and Black Stars. These hens are almost six-months-old and are just beginning to start laying. Since this breed is known for being very heavy layers, these hens should produce an abundance of eggs over the next 11-12 months.

For more information, call the Walker County Extension Office at 706-638-2548.

Norman Edwards is coordinator of Walker County Extension Service.