From a childhood fascination to a lifelong passion, Obed Rivera’s journey as a gamefowl breeder is a story of dedication, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. As the man behind Greenville Farm USA, he represents what it truly means to love and live the gamefowl lifestyle—heart, soul, and hard work combined.
Who is Greenville Farm?
“Greenville Farm is driven by passion in everything I do, especially with my gamefowls,” Obed begins. “I strive to have top-quality materials and aim to acquire impeccable bloodlines. I’m very observant and hands-on with all the details to ensure my gamefowls’ quality.”
A Breeder’s Daily Life
Owning and maintaining a farm in the United States is no small feat. “It’s not easy having a farm here,” Obed shares. “I do all the hard labor myself, rain or shine, to keep my birds healthy. Unlike in the Philippines, where manpower is abundant, I do it all alone. But all the hard work pays off when you see your pride perform.”
How It All Began
His love for the sport began as a child. “My dad, Jose Baby F. Rivera, took me along whenever he scouted for breeding stocks or attended shows. He once gave me a baby stag to care for—and I remember protecting it during a storm. That moment sparked my lifelong passion for gamefowl.”
Passion for the Craft
What Obed admires most about the gamefowl industry is the camaraderie and constant evolution of breeding.
“Almost everyone has good bloodlines nowadays,” he says, “but what sets one apart is how and what you infuse into a line to create exceptional birds.”
Balancing Life and Farm
Despite his busy schedule, family always comes first.
“I love spending time with my family—they’re my top priority along with my birds and music. Before sunrise, I’m already in the yard checking the birds. When I’m not holding my fowl, I’m holding my guitar,” he laughs. “And I believe in the saying, ‘happy wife, happy life.’”
Top-Performing Bloodlines
Greenville Farm currently carries four signature bloodlines:
- Boston Round Heads – Smart, dominant, agile, and known for excellent cutting ability.
- Sweaters – Strong frontal cutters with superior footwork.
- Kelsos – Great timing, deep game, and outstanding intelligence.
- Green Bucket YLH – Obed’s signature line; precise cutters, highly game, and extremely agile.
“These four bloodlines get the job done for me,” Obed proudly states.
Feeding and Conditioning
Obed believes in a natural approach.
“I use weather preconditioning, good feeds with crude protein, and multivitamin supplements. Any slight change can alter their performance,” he adds. “An old wise cocker once told me—‘there are a million ways to mess up a bird.’”
Challenges and Breakthroughs
Obed recalls a time when he faced eviction due to city restrictions. “We had to move my birds in a rented U-Haul trailer. Thankfully, a kind stranger offered space for my birds. That inspired me to build my own farm. With limited funds, I worked hard to develop my bloodlines—and now, my birds’ performance speaks for itself.”
Record Keeping and System
Organization is key to success. “I record all band numbers, mating months, egg production, and offspring markings. The winning record of each offspring determines which combinations to continue.”
Daily Training Routine
“I use natural methods—fly pens, scratch box, and cording area. I avoid stressing the birds. Mental conditioning is more important than physical; a stressed bird will never coordinate well.”
Challenges in the U.S.
Weather and predators like coyotes, raccoons, and possums are major threats, but Obed has adapted to protect his flock. “We ensure proper security since the farm is also our home.”
Continuous Learning
Obed never stops improving. “I keep developing my bloodlines each year to reach their highest potential. Everything evolves—you can’t afford to be left behind.”
On Social Media Negativity
“I try not to focus on jealousy or negativity. Success always attracts critics. It’s better to let admiration push you to do better.”
Advice for New Breeders
“To all who are starting out—this is not easy. Even with patience and funds, without passion you’ll fail. Save up for quality materials and start right. Dream big and never stop learning.”
A Grateful Heart
Obed ends with gratitude:
“Purebred Warrior has given me the opportunity to share knowledge and passion. From the bottom of my heart—thank you. Keep ‘em crowing, and God bless Purebred Warrior.”
