22 



time in examining different types of birds, alive and dressed, and in 

 observing the feeding capacity of certain types ; but it would take 

 years to arrive at definite conclusions on these points. I am, however, of 

 the opinion that one of the most important things to be sought after 

 is constitution. This may have no actual market value, but it certainly 

 has much to do with the bird's ability to grow and put on flesh. 

 What we want is a good feeder, and an economical producer. Gen- 

 erally, a bird with a short, stout, well-curved beak, a broad head (not 

 too long), and a bright, clear eye, has a good constitution. And I have 

 noticed that when a bird has a long, narrow beak, a thin, long comb 

 and head, and an eye somewhat sunken in the head, it is usually lack- 

 ing in constitution. Such a bird is likely to have a narrow, long body 

 and long legs, upon which it seldom stands straight. There are some 

 exceptions to this rule ; yet, generally speaking, if a bird has a good 





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* • 





iw-^je 







Fig. 11. Colony houses used for rearing chicks. Artichokes growing as shade for the chickens. 



head the chances are favorable for a good body ; and, if it has a poor 

 head the chances are against it. I have frequently noticed in the rose- 

 comb breeds, such as Wyandottes, that a good-shaped one is seldom 

 found with a long, narrow comb. 



The neck should be moderately short and stout, indicating vigor. 

 The breast is the most important point in a market chicken. It should 

 be broad, moderately deep; and, if broad, it will present a fine appear- 

 ance and appear well-fleshed. It is quite possible that a broad, deep 

 breast will carry more meat than a moderately deep breast of the same 

 width ; yet there is no doubt that the latter will present much the 

 better appearance, and sell more quickly and at a higher price in the 

 market. The breast bone should be well covered with flesh to the very 

 tip. 



