144 Farm Poultry 



breeds of cattle and horses. In reality, as great 

 differences exist. The importance of a proper 

 selection is still further emphasized when the con- 

 ditions under which the fowls are to be kept are 

 taken into consideration. Some fowls will thrive 

 fairly well under conditions that would not prove 

 adequate for the profitable maintenance of others. 

 Too often a particular variety is selected for farm 

 use because some fine-looking or profitable flock 

 has beeii seen which has created a desire in the mind 

 of the visitor to possess a similar flock. This is 

 sometimes done without considering the special 

 purposes for which these fowls are to be kept, and 

 perhaps without taking into account the conditions 

 under which the flock is to be maintained, even 

 though these conditions differ materially from those 

 under which the admired flock existed. 



The great variety of fowls now bred in this 

 country offers to the poultryman and farmer a 

 wide field for selection. It must be borne in mind 

 that of this great variety all are not equally well 

 adapted to various purposes of utility. While a 

 certain breed may give entire satisfaction in the 

 hands of one poultry-keeper, another may find 

 these fowls quite unsatisfactory because he is unable 

 to give them the necessary care and to provide the 

 conditions under which they thrive best. It may 

 happen, therefore, that under a somewhat careless 

 management the most noted egg-breeds may not 



