236 PROGRESSIVE POULTRY CULTURE 



in this respect he passes this point trusting to future 

 cuts for shape in the several sections to make up for 

 leniency in this matter, ilf there is serious lack of sym- 

 metry the scorer cuts accordingly, remembering the 

 value of perfect symmetry, which) in the scale for most 

 of the classes is eight points in one hundred. 



The next point is weight or size. If the bird is In 

 a class having a weight requirement, its actual weight 

 will determine whether it is perfect or not in this re- 

 spect. When no weight clause is given the scorer will 

 cut only for decided departure from the standard size 

 for the breed represented. 



Condition is the next matter for consideration ac- 

 cording to the score card. The bird is taken in the 

 hands and cuts are recorded if the fowl shows lack ot 

 health or cleanliness and order of plumage, according to 

 their seriousness and the total value allowed for per- 

 fect condition, in the scale of points for the variety in 

 question. 



Following these preliminary examinations the bird 

 in the hands of the scorer is critically inspected as to 

 shape and color of the successive sections from head to 

 toes and cuts made where defects appear. 



The total cuts and score are recorded and the date, 

 the leg-band number, and other entries having been 

 made the card is duly signed by the judge or other ex- 

 pert who scores the bird. 



Since the weight, condition, and in some cases the 

 color of the bird vary at different seasons, it is evident 

 that its score may also vary somewhat. The score card 

 is therefore a measure of the valuation of the bird's 

 points (according to the standard) at the time of scor- 

 ing. 



The chief value of the score card records is not 

 found in the statement of the sum of total defects or the 

 "score" that results when this sum is deducted from the 

 one hundred points of perfection. It is valuable and 

 helpful mainly because it points out the sections wherein 

 defects actually appear. 



