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A STUDY OF FARM ANIMALS 



size in these horses. It is now much the most popular draft 

 breed in America. Mature stallions in ordinary condition 

 weigh from 1,700 to 2,000 pounds, or more, and mature 

 mares from 1,600 to 1,800 pounds. The height of stallions 

 is from 16 to 17 hands, with mares slightly less. The color 

 is usually either gray of some shade or black, though bay, 



Figure 38. Percheron mare, La Belle, a noted prize winner and brood mare, 

 owned by W. H. Butler, Sandusky, Ohio. Photograph by Hildebrand. 



brown, or chestnut occurs occasionally. These horses are 

 very massive appearing, when of the best type, having big 

 bodies, strong wide backs, powerful hind quarters, muscular 

 legs, and splendid feet. The legs are free from long hairs, 

 this being one of the smooth-legged breeds. The foot is 

 shapely, of fine texture and proper size. Good specimens 

 have a very active gait and move off well with a load. 



No other draft breed in America has so many representa- 

 tives as has this one. These horses are most abundant in 



