Poultry Judging Practice Test

What term refers to a young immature pigeon?

1. Chick

2. Squab

3. Nestling

4. Fledgling

The correct answer is: Squab

The term that refers to a young immature pigeon is "squab." A squab is specifically a young pigeon that is still in the stage where it is not yet fully grown and is often still being fed by its parents. This term is widely used and recognized in the poultry industry, particularly in discussions related to the meat production of pigeons, as squabs are considered a delicacy in many cuisines. In contrast, the other terms have different meanings or apply to other birds. A chick usually refers to a young bird, particularly chickens, and can apply broadly to many types of birds. A nestling is a general term for a baby bird that is still in the nest and is dependent on its parents for care and feeding, which can apply to various species. A fledgling, on the other hand, denotes a young bird that has just acquired its feathers and is beginning to learn how to fly, transitioning towards independence. Understanding these distinctions is essential in poultry judging and avian studies, as each stage of a bird's life has specific characteristics and implications in terms of care, growth, and production.