LIVE STOCK. 415 



ground, in order that heavy birds may not injure themselves in 

 flying down ; and they are all movable so that they may be taken 

 out and exposed if necessary to the sun and rain for freshening, 

 and so that the ground beneath the perches may be easily re- 

 moved, the principle of the earth closet being adopted for the 

 preservation of the manure, — it being the rule to mix the drop- 

 pings about twice a week with loose dry earth, either by spading 

 or raking. In summer time the sashes can be removed, and the 

 house will have the effect simply of a well-built shed open only 

 to the south. 



As I have only just constructed this house, I cannot speak with 

 the authority of experience concerning it, but I see no reason 

 why it may not be as effective as it is simple and economical. 



Concerning the breed of fowls which it is most profitable to 

 keep, opinions vary so much that it would be well for each man 

 to experiment for himself. After a careful consideration of all 

 that has been said on the subject during the past few years by 

 writers for agricultural papers, and after a considerable observa- 

 tion of different flocks, I have decided upon a cross between the 

 Brahma Pootra and the Gray Dorking, breeding only from 

 Brahma hens and Dorking cocks. The progeny of these birds 

 are quite good layers, and arrive early at maturity, growing to a 

 good size ; while the quiet disposition that they inherit from their 

 mothers, and the domestic habits that these teach them, especially 

 adapt them for confined localities. When fattened for market, 

 they are of good size and particularly good appearance. 



Among the pure breeds, all things considered, especially when 

 they must be confined within narrow limits, I think that the 

 Brahmas are the best of those with which we are familiar ; 

 although the French breeds of Houdan and Crevecoeur, which are 

 being actively brought into notice, have, it is claimed, some advan- 

 tages over even these. I have no personal experience with them 

 beyond an admiration of their fine proportions and beautiful plu- 

 mage, which form attractive features of all modern poultry shows. 



Among turkeys, the Bronze variety probably holds the highest 

 place ; and among ducks, I prefer the Rouen. 

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