Palestinian Doctor Revives Ornamental Bird Breeding Passion

Doctor Walid Farrajah has returned to his childhood passion for raising ornamental birds in Palestine. After losing part of his professional work due to war, he now dedicates time to breeding distinctive poultry. He actively exchanges knowledge with breeders locally and abroad while participating in various exhibitions.

His journey began at age ten when an uncle gifted him chicks. Unlike expectations, his interest grew rather than faded during school years. Although medical studies in Egypt and Jordan limited his time, he never fully abandoned the hobby. The recent break in his career allowed him to reconnect deeply with this lifelong fascination.

Farrajah emphasizes that constant observation is vital for bird health. He states, "Keeping an eye on your birds is medicine." This practice helps detect behavioral changes early. Breeders must monitor temperature needs carefully. Chicks require high heat initially, which decreases as they adapt to normal environmental conditions over time.

He raises rare breeds like Ayam Cemani and White Australorp. Proper nutrition and vaccinations ensure healthy fertilized eggs. Farrajah collaborates with experts in Turkey and Romania to improve line quality. He believes selecting healthy parents allows for gradual improvement of desirable characteristics within specific poultry lines effectively.

The Palestinian Brahma Club organizes exhibitions to showcase these efforts. The recent Southern Ornamental Chicken Exhibition attracted families from Hebron and Bethlehem. Breeders displayed high-quality birds in individual cages to the public. Such events foster community learning and encourage new interest in ornamental poultry breeding across the region today.