What is a "Strain" in the context of poultry?

In the context of poultry, a "Strain" refers to fowl that exhibit uniform characteristics as a result of selective breeding practices. This means that specific traits, such as size, color, egg production, or disease resistance, have been consistently passed down through generations due to careful selection by breeders. A strain will exhibit a level of consistency in these characteristics, making it distinct from other strains or breeds.

This uniformity is essential for poultry shows, where judges evaluate birds based on breed standards. Show participants benefit from understanding strains, as knowing the specific traits of a strain can help in preparing their birds for competition. In contrast, the other options do not align with the definition of strain within this context; they pertain to aspects of poultry care, breeding methods, or preparation techniques that do not capture the essence of genetic uniformity achieved through selective breeding.