DELAINE MERINOS. 193 



(a) The distinctive Delaine Merinos have horns, in the 

 rams, and more or less of wrinkles or folds on the neck and 

 breast. 



(b) The Black Top varieties have horns in the rams, but 

 no wrinkles, and are further characterized by an abundant 

 closure of fleece of a black color. 



(c) The Dickinson Merinos have no horns or wrinkles, 

 and they are further distinguished by size and length of fleece. 



IV. In all these types the improvement sought 

 related chiefly to size, form, smoothness, wool pro- 

 duction and breeding qualities. 



(1) The aim was to secure a considerably greater size 

 and weight than that possessed by the average American 

 Merino. 



(2) The form was broadened and deepened, that is to 

 say, it was more conformed to the mutton producing types. 



(3) The wrinkles and folds were entirely removed, or 

 left only on the neck and breast. 



(4) The length of the wool was increased and the weight 

 of fleece preserved, or measurably so, without an excess of 

 yolk in it, and with but little diminution in fineness and 

 density. 



(5) More regular breeding was secured with an increased 

 milk production. 



V. How improvement was effected. 



(1) Improvement was almost entirely brought about 

 through breeding, selection and feeding. 



(2) In some instances line breeding was resorted to, but 

 not in all. 



(3) The selection had a careful regard to all the ends 

 sought, but especial prominence was given to the wool, which 

 changes so much more slowly than the form. 



VI. When improvement was effected. 



(1) The improvement in the types designated Delaines 

 has been chiefly effected within the past half century, though 



(2) Some of the foundation flocks in the less improved 

 form were started earlier. 



VII. Organizations. 



(1) The associations formed in the interest of the types 

 denominated Delaine are known as the Standard Delaine, the 

 National Delaine and the Improved Delaine. 



(2) These have only been organized during recent years. 



(3) Each has a scale of points, keeps records and issues 

 flock books. 



13 



