50 RANCHING IN THE CANADIAN WEST 



demand for pure-bred ewes, that a splendid oppor- 

 tunity offers, for a man who thoroughly knows his 

 business, in breeding pure Shropshires for disposal 

 at good prices to his neighbours, as well as to 

 ranchers throughout his province, by dint of a little 

 advertising in the local papers. 



Strong, close-woolled, pure-bred rams of the most 

 approved, acclimatized stock can be bought for 

 from $12 to $18 each. Ewes (usually of decidedly 

 mixed breed) are to be had, as a rule, at about $5 

 a head. 



As before hinted, it is absolutely necessary to 

 keep close and constant watch upon your flock, 

 not only to prevent it wandering beyond the sheep 

 limit, but also to guard against attacks by stray 

 wolves in summer-time, who take their toll of calves 

 as well. In winter the flock is driven into the 

 corral, and placed for shelter beneath the shed every 

 night, as much on this account as to protect them 

 from the cold when very intense. The Govern- 

 ment pay a bounty of $15 each on every wolf -pelt 

 you can bring to town, and there is an agitation in 

 some districts to increase it. The official to whom 

 the skins are taken merely cuts a small piece out of 

 each ear, by way of acknowledgment that the 

 bounty has been paid, after which you are free to 

 dispose of them, if you wish. $3 to $4 can usually 



