THE PIGEON STANDARD. 11 
THE MAGPIE. 
Size—Small, from actual measurements, good average spec- 
imens in good condition, weight for cocks from 9} to 
104 ounces, hens from 8} to 9} ounces; and when 
standing in a natural position measure from sole of 
foot to top of head from 8 to 9} inches in height, the 
length from tip of beak to end of tail, without 
stretching, from 12} to 14 inches, 
Shape—Apparently long, slender and snake-like, chest full 
and round, but not broad, the body round, thin and 
gracefully tapering from front to vent, with no ap- 
proach to Owl or Tumbler form, shoulders well 
defined, but not carried prominently asin the Dra- 
goon, legs set well back to show breast, 
Carriage—lIs a very important characteristic of the Magpie, 
but if the shape be good and true, the proper carriage 
is almost sure to follow; it should be smart, spright- 
ly. The body well poised on the graceful and slender 
limbs, the neck and body forming a continuous easy 
curve, but the neck must notincline backwards, 
head and beak carried horizontally, flights and tail 
neatly folded. 
Head—Must be long and thin, round on top of skull, showing 
a soft easy curve in every direction—the term snake- 
headed is often used, but does not apply as many 
snakes are flat-headed, which is quite a reverse of 
what is wanted in the Magpie—as nearly even in 
substance throughout as possible, not wedge-headed, 
no stop at junction of head and beak, but rising with 
a gradual curve from front to back, fine and neat at 
back of skull, lean face, with no approach to Owl or 
short-faced Tumbler form. Junction of head with 
neck to be neat.and almost imperceptible without 
throatiners, 
