126 REPORT OF THE SCOTTISH COMMISSION 



zenoleum, have also been used experimentally. The above indicates 

 the lines on which experiment is being conducted, but results are 

 not yet definite enough to be recorded. It may incidentally be 

 mentioned that Mr W. Brown, poultry instructor at Theale College, 

 Reading, England, has for several years been working on similar 

 lines with most satisfactory results. 



Breeds 



The tendency of the Canadian farmer is to go in for general 

 purpose fowls, rather than for those with pronounced character- 

 istics of one kind or another. Thus Plymouth Rocks, Wyandottes, 

 Orpingtons, and Rhode Island Reds may be reckoned the favourites, 

 with Plymouth Rocks easily leading. This variety is undoubtedly 

 the standard fowl of the country, and it certainly seems to fulfil 

 its dual purpose of egg production and table qualities admirably. 

 Some strains, such as those at Guelph Experimental Farm, are 

 remarkable for their prolific laying, early maturity, and fine table 

 qualities. The White Wyandotte and Buff Orpington are also 

 much kept for their all round good points, while the Rhode Island 

 Reds are considered extremely hardy. Of the Mediterranean 

 breeds, probably the Brown and White Leghorns are the most 

 popular, with Minorcas and Andalusians next. There is general 

 evidence of a desire for pure breeds, which shows that the theoretic 

 teaching is taking practical form. 



Poultry Institutes 



These associations play an important part in developing the 

 poultry industry in Canada. They are well established in Ontario, 

 and are extending in all directions. Formed on the same principles 

 as local poultry societies at home, they go much further in their 

 scope. It is a regular practice to hold monthly meetings, except 

 in the summer months, when lectures are given by prominent 

 experts, followed by a discussion. Birds are brought to be judged 

 and compared. One exhibition, at least, is held each year at which 

 a lecture is given making an educative agency of the event. The 

 Grovernment gives one association in each county a grant of from 

 25 to 50 dollars annually to encourage utility poultry-keeping. 

 The services of an expert lecturer can be had from some of the 

 Agricultural Colleges free at any time. To the districts in which 

 they are formed these associations are excellent media for distributing 

 pure eggs and cockerels. 



