The word “Shamo” means fighter in Japanese, which is fitting given their initial purpose as fighting birds. The Shamo chicken breed was created in Japan, but its ancestral line goes back to Thailand.
Guide to Shamo Chicken Breed
Different Shamo Varieties
There are seven distinct recognized breeds of Shamo Chickens based on weight categories, each with unique characteristics.
| O-Shamo | Kinpa |
| Chu-Shamo | Takido, and |
| Nankin-Shamo | Yamato-Shamo |
| Ehigo-Nankin-Shamo |
Characteristics of the Shamo Chicken Breed
- Shamo chickens are an impressive breed with a striking appearance. They are large, muscular birds selectively bred to be powerful and agile fighters. Their unique characteristics include strong legs, broad shoulders, and deep chests.
- Shamo chickens come in various colors, including black, red, and grey. In addition to their physical prowess, Shamo chickens have excellent hearing abilities.
- These birds have short tails compared to other breeds, but this does not affect their balance or agility. Their tight-fitting and dense feathers protect them from the elements while fighting in the ring.
- One of the most distinctive features of Shamo chickens is their upright posture; they stand tall and proud due to their long necks that end in an elongated head topped by a bright red comb. The roosters can crow very loudly, making it impossible for anyone nearby to ignore them.
- Shamo chickens possess an impressive combination of strength and beauty that sets them apart from other chicken breeds.
Feeding the Shamo Chicken Breed
- It requires a balanced and nutritious diet to keep them healthy and maintain their body weight. A good quality pellet feed with added vitamins and minerals is an excellent option for feeding your Shamo chickens.
- Providing them fresh fruits, vegetables, or kitchen scraps as treats are also essential. These include leafy greens, carrots, sweet potatoes, apples, and bananas. However, avoid giving them citrus fruits as they may cause digestive problems.
- Ensure you always provide clean water easily accessible to your birds throughout the day. During hot weather conditions or intense egg-laying periods, electrolyte supplements can benefit their drinking water.
- Avoid overfeeding your Shamo chickens, which may lead to obesity-related health issues such as fatty liver disease or heart problems. Always monitor their eating habits and adjust accordingly based on changes in activity levels or seasonal demands.
Health Problems for Shamo Chickens
- One common problem is parasites such as lice and mites. These pests can cause irritation and discomfort for the birds, leading to decreased egg production and overall poor health.
- Another issue that can affect Shamo chickens is respiratory infections. Bacteria or viruses can cause these infections, leading to coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and difficulty breathing.
- Owners should also watch for signs of nutritional deficiencies in their birds. In addition to these issues, injuries from fights with other birds or predators are also a concern for Shamo chicken owners. Open wounds on the bird’s body provide entry points for infection-causing bacteria.
- Maintaining a clean coop environment free of pests is crucial, while providing them with a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients is crucial. Regular veterinary check-ups are also recommended to catch potential health issues before they become more serious problems.
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Health Care Tips for Shamo Chicken Breed
- Keeping their living quarters clean and sanitary can go a long way in preventing illnesses. Regularly inspecting your chickens for signs of illness or injury is also important.
- Vaccinating your Shamo chickens against common poultry diseases like Newcastle Disease, Marek’s Disease, and Infectious Bronchitis is recommended. Consult a veterinarian for proper vaccination schedules.
- Providing your Shamo chickens with a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs is crucial for maintaining good health. This includes giving them access to clean water at all times.
- In addition to preventative measures, it’s important to be prepared for emergencies. Having basic first aid supplies and knowing how to administer medication properly can help in case of sudden illness or injury.
- Regular coop cleaning is essential to maintain a healthy environment for your Shamo chickens. This means removing any waste, old food, or bedding that could harbor harmful bacteria.
- Monitoring your chickens’ behavior and appearance for signs of illness or injury is important. See veterinary attention immediately if you notice anything unusual such as feather loss or lethargy.
Shamo Chicken Weight
Shamo chickens are known for their impressive size and stature. The standard weight of a male Shamo chicken is around 11 pounds, while the hens weigh in at approximately 7 pounds.
Shamo Chicken Egg Production
Shamo chickens are not known for their egg production, but they still lay a fair to a poor number of medium/large light brown eggs each year. On average, Shamo chickens lay about 90 eggs yearly, much lower than other breeds raised specifically for egg-laying purposes. However, despite this relatively low number of eggs produced, Shamo chickens are still considered one of the best layers amongst game bird breeds. Shamo chickens may not produce as many eggs as some other breeds, but the quality of their eggs is excellent.
Tips for Raising Shamo Chickens
- Raising Shamo chickens can be a rewarding experience for poultry enthusiasts. However, it requires knowledge and preparation to ensure your birds stay healthy and thrive.
- When raising Shamo chickens, providing them with adequate space is important. These birds are large and active, so they need room to move around freely.
- Shamo also requires plenty of fresh water at all times. Ensure their water source is clean and changed daily to prevent bacterial growth.
- Feeding your Shamo chickens a balanced diet is crucial for their overall health. Please provide them with high-quality feed containing essential vitamins and minerals and protein-rich sources such as insects or mealworms.
- In terms of shelter, ensure that the coop provides ample ventilation while protecting the birds from predators. Keep an eye out for signs of mites or lice on your Shamos’ feathers – regular cleaning will help keep these pests under control.
Shamo Chicken Average Life Span
Shamo chickens have a relatively long lifespan compared to other chicken breeds. On average, Shamo chickens live for 6-8 years.
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Conclusion
The Shamo became more commonly kept as an ornamental bird for show purposes. It’s important to note that while Shamo chickens may not be the best egg layers compared to other breeds, they have a lot of value as ornamental birds. Their striking appearance and strong personalities make them an interesting addition to any flock.
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