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AMERICAN POULTRY ASSOCIATION 



Mealiness. This objectionable feature is quite common in 

 females, generally in the wing bow or coverts, though it is found 

 other sections of females, and in breast and fluff of males. 



n 



Inasmuch as no specimen that has this defect can appear to be 

 even in surface color, this is a most serious defect and particu- 

 larly serious because it is very difficult to breed out. It consists 

 of rather small specks, spots, or stipples of lighter color. It is 

 not always so pronounced that it is noticeable by casual observa- 

 tion, but it is easily detected upon examination of the specimens 

 in the hand. See illustration, plate 59. Also definition, page 20. 



Shaftiness. This is another fault that causes uneven color. 

 When shafting appears, it is caused by the shafts of the feathers 

 being lighter or darker than the webs. In most cases they are 

 lighter. They are objectionable because with them an even sur- 

 face is impossible. It is more noticeable in the plumage of 

 females than of males, except in the breast and body. See defi- 

 nition, page 21. Also illustration, plate 60. 



PLATE 59 



A Buff Plymouth Eock female, showing uneven plumage, includ- 

 ing the too dark wing bow. 



