Sept., 1911-] Device for Opening and Closing of Ccw-bails. 



599 



former was out of profit 80 days, and the latter no days. The escut- 

 cheons indicate that the best cow has produced the best calf ; for, at matu- 

 rity, No. 13 should give 17 quarts and hold for seven to eight months. 

 No. 4 has previously been referred to as likely to grow into a 14-quart 

 cow milking six months after falling in calf. 



In conclusion, it is the opinion of the writer that while the e.scutcheon 

 is not to be taken by itself as an infallible guide to milking quality, it is 

 worthy of much closer study than is generally accorded it by dairymen. 

 It is not a subject for any one to take up by itself, under the impression 

 that therein lies the key to successful buying ; but, taken in conjunction 

 with tvpe, it will be found of great assistance in making a choice among 

 medium quality stock, and especiallv among springers or heifers. 



It is no new theory. It has stood the test of time ; and, wherever inves- 

 tigated, it has not failed to prove reliable. As far back as 1878, a State 

 Commission, comprised of dairy cattle breeders, was appointed in Penn- 

 sylvania, U.S.A., to take evidence on the subject. Over 200 dairy cows 

 were examined ; and their estimated yields, as indicated by their escut- 

 cheons, were compared with their milking records. The result was that 

 the Commission reported the system to be all that is claimed for it. 



To those buving or breeding dairy cattle a knowledge of the escutcheon 

 and its numerous variations is more or less a necessity. Unquestionably 

 it is a guide to dairv value; and, as such, none can afford to overlook it. 



DEVICE FOR OPENING AXD CLOSING OF COW-BAILS. 



//. C. Churches. Dairy Supervisor . 



Manv anrl varied are the devices in use for the opening and closing of 

 row-bails. Some make up in ingenuity what they lack in workmanship. 

 Many are lacking in both comfort and convenience ; others, whilst they are 

 convenient for the attendant, are certainlv not comfortable for the cow. 



I. BAIL OPEN. 2. BAIL CLOSED. 



The d.iirvman who expects the maximum results from his cows must study 

 their comfort. Only too often does one see the cow's neck jambed against 

 the front division |H>st Ix-tween the bails, and her leg roped back to the rear 

 division post, liecause she moves through Inking tired of standing on three 

 Irgs, she rc(ei\t's snndrv kiuxks, and the nsult is siic will not " let down 

 her milk. 



