4 Diseases of Poultry 



the poultrynian will not be troubled with disease. This is 

 of primary importance. In order to breed constitutional 

 vigor into the flock, the poultryman must train himself to 

 recognize at a glance the condition of his birds. Are they 

 in good condition or not ? Regarding the aspect of fowls in 

 health and disease Salmon ' has the following to say : 



"We say that a bird is in good health when it appears 

 lively, has a clear eye, a bright red comb, is quick and active 

 in its movements, has a good appetite and when the various 

 organs perform their functions in the manner in which they 

 are observed to act in all birds that are vigorous and thriving. 

 On the other hand, we say a bird is diseased when some 

 function or functions of its body are not performed as 

 they are in the great majority of indi\iduals, or when some 

 organ presents an unusual form or appearance. Disease 

 has, therefore, been defined as a life the manifestations of 

 which deviate more or less from the normal. Practically, 

 we say a bird is diseased when we observe that one or more 

 of its functions are not carried on in a normal manner, or 

 when we find unusual growths, injuries, or parasites affect- 

 ing any of its organs." 



Having acquired the ability to see the individual birds 

 as individuals, the next step is to learn to distinguish a good 

 bird from a poor one. Here it is ever to be kept in mind 

 that the primary and most essential characteristic of a good 

 bird must always be a sound constitution and plenty of 

 vitality and vigor. Without these qualities it is impossible 

 to have first class stock. Constitutional vigor and vitality 

 may be put as a fundamental requisite in the successful 

 practical breeding of poultry. In all kinds of breeding 

 operations whether for utility purposes, or for the fancier's 

 show pen, or for the purpose of experimentation in the field 



1 Salmon, D. E., "The Diseases of Poultry." Washington 

 (no date). 



