LECTURE NO. 9. 



SHORTHORNS THEIR LEADING CHARACTERISTICS. 



I. Popularity. 



(1) Shorthorns have unquestionably been the most 

 popular breed of cattle in the world during the whole of the 

 present century. 



(2) Of this we have abundant evidence in the fact that 

 they are cosmopolitan to an extent far in advance of any 

 other breed. 



(3) As enduring popularity is always the result of merit, 

 we find in the favor shown to Shorthorns a proof of their 

 great utility. 



II. Adaptability. 



(1) They possess much power of adaptation to the vary- 

 ing conditions of life, as changes of soil and food products 

 and climatic conditions, but they flourish best in temperate 

 zones. 



(2) They are best adapted, however, to arable countries, 

 level or gently undulating, rich in agricultural production, and 

 where much meat and milk are desired on the same farm. 



(3) In point of hardihood they are at least medium. 



III. Relative size. 



(1) In size and weight they have something of a lead 

 over all breeds as yet introduced into this country. 



(2) This is owing to their greater scale, combined with 

 good all-round development. 



IV. Early maturing qualities. 



(1) In early maturing properties they stand second to no 

 breed, and are superior to many. 



(2) With suitable food and good care they may be made 

 quite ripe for the block at the age of two and a half years. 



(3) Under average conditions they attain a maximum of 

 growth at about four years. 



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