Shamo chicken farming is popular in Asia, especially in Japan and some other neighboring countries. It is an ornamental chicken breed and raised mainly for ornamental purpose. It was also once raised for cock fighting purpose.
The Shamo chicken is actually a hard feathered Asiatic Game chicken breed originating in Japan. Although the breed was developed in Japan, but it’s ancestors came from Thailand (which was known as Siam) between 17th and 19th Centuries.
The Shamo chicken breed was developed mainly for using as a fighting bird. And it was imported into many countries mainly for cock fighting purpose. There are actually many different kinds of Japanese Game chickens available, but currently the Shamo chickens are best known.
When creating the Shamo chicken breed, breeders looked to the strength and endurance of these original breeds. The Shamos have been selectively bred for hundred years and now it is very different from the original stock.
The Shamo chicken is actually a strain of the Asil chicken, which was take to Thailand and Taiwan and from there to Japan. The real origin place of Shamo chicken is Sindh, Pakistan. And secondary origin place is India. And the Shamo chicken can be found in different variety of colors and sizes in different regions of Japan.
The Japanese government placed the bird under protection of low in 1941, in hopes of avoiding the extinction of Shamo chicken. Today the breed is available in many countries and raised mainly for ornamental purpose. Because cock fighting is illegal in many countries.
However, commercial Shamo chicken farming can be a good and profitable business if you can market the ornamental birds easily in your area. The ornamental birds are generally sold at very high price in the market. So you will probably be able to make good profit from commercial Shamo chicken farming business.
How to Start Shamo Chicken Farming
The Shamo chickens are very strong and hardy birds, as compared to many other domestic chicken breeds. So starting commercial Shamo chicken farming business will be relatively easy.
Here we are trying to describe more information about starting and operating a successful Shamo chicken farming business from purchasing birds to caring and marketing.
Purchase Chickens
First of all, you have to purchase very good quality, healthy, active and disease free birds for starting commercial Shamo chicken farming business. Purchasing good quality birds is very important, because good quality birds ensure good production and maximum profits.
You can purchase either day old chicks or mature birds depending on the price and availability in your area. The mature birds are generally costly, but the day old chicks are much cheaper. So we recommend starting with day old chicks.
You can purchase the chicks from any of your local poultry chick suppliers, chicken breeding centers or any existing Shamo chicken farms. Just ensure that the chicks are healthy and active. You can also search your local online classified websites.
Housing
Making a good, comfortable and secure housing system for your chickens is very important. Because a good house not only helps to keep your birds healthy, but also helps them to stay free from all types of predators and adverse weather conditions.
The type of the house can be any depending on the price and availability of materials in your area. The house can be of full concrete setup or it can be made of easily available and low cost materials such as bamboo or woods. Just ensure that the house is secure and comfortable enough for your chickens.
Install good ventilation system while building the house. Good ventilation system is a must, because it helps to reduce harmful gases from inside the house and keeps your birds healthy.
Make the house in such a way so that you can easily clean the house. And ensure flow of sufficient amount of fresh air and light inside the house. The Shamo chickens are large in size and as they are ornamental birds, so arranging up to 10 square feet of housing space per bird will be good.
Feeding
Feeding the birds with very good quality, healthy and nutritious food is the most important part of Shamo chicken farming business. Good food not only helps the birds to stay healthy, but also helps them to grow better and produce better quality products.
You can feed your chickens either with ready-made/commercial poultry feeds or game chicken feeds depending on the availability in your area. You can also prepare the feeds of your own. Just ensure that the food is good and nutritious for your chickens.
Never feed your chickens with contaminated feeds. And always try to provide them with enough clean and fresh drinking water as per their demand.
The Shamo chickens are good for raising in both confinement and free range system. But raising them in free range system will help you to reduce feeding costs, and at the same time it will improve the quality of the products.
Breeding
Like many other domestic chicken breeds, the Shamo chickens are also naturally very good breeders. They will breed easily and produce fertile eggs for hatching if you keep good ratio of hens and roosters in your flock.
Generally one healthy rooster is enough for breeding around or up to 10 hens. The hens go broody and they are excellent mothers.
Caring
The Shamo chickens are very strong and hardy, and they generally require less caring and other management. But taking additional caring will help the birds to grow better and produce more.
Monitor your bird’s health on a regular basis for any signs of diseases or illness, and take necessary steps if you notice anything uncommon. Vaccinate them timely and always try to keep good contact with a vet in your area.
Marketing
Marketing chicken products (such as meat and eggs) is not a problem. Because both meat and eggs have very good demand and value in the market. But the market of ornamental birds can be different. So you have to determine your marketing strategies before starting this business.
These are the steps for Shamo chicken farming business. These birds are very strong and hardy, and even the beginners can raise them. Hope this guide has helped you! Good luck & may God bless you!
Best Tips for Successful Shamo Chicken Farming
Shamo chickens have gained popularity among poultry enthusiasts and farmers alike. Originating from Japan, these robust birds are cherished for their fighting abilities, and in recent years, they’ve also become a popular choice for backyard chicken keepers. However, here we are trying to share some tips for successful Shamo chicken farming.
1. Purchase Quality Birds
When starting Shamo chicken farming, it’s crucial to begin with healthy and purebred Shamo chickens. Select reputable breeders or hatcheries to ensure you get high-quality birds. It’s always good to purchase these birds from local producers.
2. Ensure Good Housing Facilities
Shamos are larger chickens than many other breeds, so ensure they have ample space in their coop and run to move around comfortably. Allowing them to roam freely is very helpful for their good health. Build a robust and secure chicken coop to protect your Shamos from predators and harsh weather conditions.
3. Ensure Proper Ventilation
A well-ventilated coop helps regulate temperature and moisture levels, creating a healthier environment for your chickens. So, ensure good ventilation inside the house for your chickens.
4. Clean House Regularly
Regularly clean the coop to prevent the buildup of dirt and bacteria, which can lead to health issues. A healthy environment helps the birds to stay free from health problems.
5. Temperature Control System
Shamos can handle cold weather, but it’s essential to provide adequate heating during extreme cold spells.
6. Provide Them Good Quality Bedding
Providing the birds with good quality bedding helps the birds to stay on a comfortable environment. Choose suitable bedding materials like straw or wood shavings to keep your coop dry and comfortable.
7. Provide Nutritious Food
Feeding the birds with good quality and nutritious food is the most important part of this business. So, try to feed your Shamo chickens a well-balanced diet, including grains, vegetables, and high-quality poultry pellets.
8. Ensure Adequate Fresh Water Supply
Shamos drink more water than smaller breeds due to their size. So, ensure a constant supply of fresh and clean water. Try to provide warm water during excessive cold weather.
9. Monitor Their Health Regularly
Monitor your chicken’s health regularly. Any signs of illness should be addressed promptly. Always try to keep good contact with a vet in your area. Implement a regular deworming and parasite control schedule to keep your Shamos healthy.
10. Provide Adequate Lighting
Adequate lighting play a very important role in eggs production of your hens. Provide adequate lighting in the coop to stimulate egg production, especially during the winter months.
11. Handle the Birds With Care
Shamos are well known for their strong personalities. Handle them gently and avoid stressing them unnecessarily.
12. Socialize Your Chickens
Socializing your Shamos is very important. Socialize your Shamo chickens from a young age to reduce aggression and territorial behavior.
13. Provide Companionship
Try to keep them in pairs or small groups to reduce loneliness and boredom. This is very important for keeping your birds happy and healthy.
14. Provide Them Space for Roosting
Ensure enough roosting space for your Shamos, as they tend to be more territorial than other breeds.
15. Ensure Secure Fencing
Use sturdy fencing to keep your Shamo chickens safe from predators like raccoons, foxes, and birds of prey.
16. Promote Natural Foraging
Allow your Shamos to forage for insects and greens, which can improve their diet and overall well-being.
17. Provide Dust Baths
Shamo chickens enjoy dust baths to keep themselves clean and control mites and parasites.
18. Quarantine New Additions
If you’re introducing new chickens to your flock, quarantine them first to prevent the spread of diseases.
19. Keep Records and Be Patient
Maintain detailed records of your flock’s health, egg production, and breeding history. Shamo chicken farming can be challenging, so be patient and persistent in your efforts. Don’t hesitate to seek advice from experienced Shamo chicken farmers or poultry experts. Connect with other Shamo chicken enthusiasts through forums, social media, or local poultry clubs to share experiences and gain valuable insights.
20. Marketing Your Products
This also a very important part of this business. Because, if you can’t market your products at good prices, then your venture will not be profitable. If you have surplus eggs or meat, consider selling them locally to cover expenses.
Related Queries & FAQs
There are lots of questions and queries related to Shamo chicken farming. Here we are trying to list the common questions and queries about this business. Hope you will find answers of your questions or queries. Don’t hesitate to ask us if you have more questions.
What is a Shamo chicken?
Shamo chickens are a Japanese breed known for their impressive size and fighting abilities. They are also raised for their meat and ornamental qualities.
Are Shamo chickens good for beginners?
Shamo chickens can be challenging for beginners due to their size and unique needs. It’s advisable to start with smaller, more docile breeds first.
How big do Shamo chickens get?
Shamo chickens are large birds, with roosters reaching weights of 9-13 pounds (4-6 kg) and hens weighing around 7-9 pounds (3-4 kg).
What is the temperament of Shamo chickens?
Shamo chickens are known for being territorial and can be aggressive, especially the males. Proper socialization and handling can help reduce aggression.
What is the lifespan of Shamo chickens?
Shamo chickens can live for 6-10 years with proper care.
Can Shamo chickens be raised in a backyard coop?
Yes, Shamo chickens can be raised in a backyard coop, but you’ll need to ensure they have enough space and protection from predators.
What do Shamo chickens eat?
Shamo chickens have a diet similar to other chickens, consisting of grains, vegetables, poultry pellets, and access to insects and greens for natural foraging.
How often do Shamo chickens lay eggs?
Shamo hens are sporadic layers and may not lay eggs as consistently as some other breeds.
Do Shamo chickens require special medical care?
Shamos don’t require special medical care, but regular health checks and parasite control are essential.
Can Shamo chickens be kept with other chicken breeds?
Shamos can be kept with other breeds, but you should monitor them closely for aggression and territorial behavior.
How can I prevent aggression among Shamo chickens?
Socialize them from a young age, provide ample space, and avoid overcrowding. Having multiple feeding and watering stations can help reduce conflict.
Are there different varieties of Shamo chickens?
Yes, there are different color varieties of Shamo chickens, including Black, White, and others.
How can I tell if a Shamo chicken is male or female?
Males typically have larger combs, wattles, and more vibrant plumage. Females tend to be smaller and have less prominent features.
Do Shamo chickens need a special diet for fighting?
No, Shamo chickens do not need a special diet for fighting. A balanced and nutritious diet is sufficient for their overall health.
How do I prevent Shamo chickens from escaping their enclosure?
Ensure that the coop and run are securely fenced with sturdy materials to prevent escapes.
Are Shamo chickens winter-hardy?
Shamo chickens are relatively winter-hardy, but they may require additional heating during extreme cold spells.
Can I raise Shamo chickens in an urban setting?
Yes, you can raise Shamo chickens in an urban setting, but check local regulations regarding chicken keeping.
How many Shamo chickens should I start with?
Starting with a small flock of 2-4 chickens is a good idea for beginners.
What is the egg production rate of Shamo chickens?
On average, Shamo hens may lay around 100-150 eggs per year, but this can vary.
How do I introduce new chickens to an existing Shamo flock?
Quarantine new chickens for a few weeks before introducing them to the existing flock to prevent the spread of diseases.
Can Shamo chickens be raised for meat?
Yes, Shamo chickens are raised for their meat, which is known for its flavor and texture.
How do I maintain the cleanliness of the coop?
Regularly clean the coop by removing old bedding, droppings, and providing fresh bedding materials.
Can Shamo chickens be free-ranged?
Yes, Shamo chickens can be free-ranged, but ensure they have a safe and secure environment.
Are there any common health issues in Shamo chickens?
Common health issues include respiratory infections, mites, and parasites, which can be prevented with proper care.
How can I encourage my Shamo chickens to lay more eggs?
Providing a consistent light source and a well-balanced diet can help stimulate egg production.
Do Shamo chickens need regular vaccinations?
Vaccination requirements may vary by location, so consult with a poultry veterinarian or local agricultural authorities.
Are there any Shamo chicken clubs or associations I can join?
Yes, there are Shamo chicken clubs and associations where you can connect with other enthusiasts, share experiences, and gain valuable insights.
I want shamo pair. Can you send a pair in pakistan???
Sorry! Please search any local breeder. Good luck!