11 



to breed, but are caring- well for the ones they have." Another report 

 says: "No large increase in numbers, but a tendency to better feeding 

 and to make the finished product heavier." Still another report: "A 

 great many would increase if they thought present prices would con- 

 tinue, but some were disappointed in that respect in the past." 



In 1906 the number of sows has slightly increased over the number 

 for 1905, but is less than the number for 1904. The average litter is 

 7.5. Taking the county as a whole there appears to be a greater per- 

 centage of loss in young pigs than is usually the case. It is expected 

 that the shipments before September 1st will be lighter than in 1905. 

 One correspondent states : "The delivery will be light the first months 

 and heavier for September. " Another correspondent states: "So far 

 as this district is concerned the hogs are being marketed in a very im- 

 mature state, probably on account of very high prices, or perhaps short- 

 age of feed." 



The price for summer feeding ranges from 3^ to 6 cents per lb., 

 and for winter from 4J to *]\ cents per lb. The average for summer 

 feeding is $4.70 per cwt. , and for winter feeding $5.45 per cwt. 



Waterloo. 



Public opinion is strongly in favor of Yorkshires as the most de- 

 sirable breed. Berkshires appear to be about 50 per cent. less, numer- 

 ous and Tamworths 75 per cent. less. The number of Tamworths is 

 inclined to decrease, while Berkshires are being used more largely for 

 crossing with the Yorkshires. A few reports mention some farmers 

 who are inclined to raise a fatter hog, but the majority have faith in 

 the bacon type. There is room for considerable improvement in many 

 of the sires used ; reference is made to the use of grade sires in nearly 

 half of the reports. 



There is strong disposition to increase the number of hogs to as 

 many as the farmers have feed for. Estimates of the increase to be 

 looked for go as high as 60 per cent. It is not likely the increase 

 will have much effect on the market for some time, as there is not suf- 

 ficient breeding stock to meet the demands upon it. Sows and young 

 pigs are selling at high prices. The average for the last three years 

 of sows kept is: 1904, 2.3; 1905, 2.3; 1906, 2.6 per farm. 



Litters have not been doing so well as usual unless where com- 

 fortable quarters were used for the pigs. The number of pigs weaned 

 from each litter is 7.8. There will likely be a normal number of hogs 

 marketed during the summer, and increases may be looked for later 

 in the season. 



The cost of summer feeding is averaged at $4.69 per hundred, and 

 winter feeding, $5.28. Estimates vary from $3.24 to $6.00 in summer, 

 and $4.00 to $7.00 in winter. 



