CHAPTER II 

 QUAIL PROPAGATION METHODS 



(Considered as a basis for the breeding and rearing of 

 gallinaceous species generally) 



Bob-white as a Model. Since the methods used for the 

 propagation of all groups of gallinaceous species are similar, 

 I shall describe minutely approved methods now in use for 

 the propagation of one species. This will serve as a model 

 for all, minor differences being specified in the chapters 

 dealing with the others. The species selected for this special 

 treatment is the bob-white or common quail, well known 

 over a large part of the United States, considered by sports- 

 men as one of the choicest game-birds, a species valuable 

 and important to agriculture, and universally beloved. 



Further Reasons. Further reasons for making methods 

 with quails the standard, rather than those for pheasants, 

 are as follows : The main purpose of this Manual is to pro- 

 mote the increase of native birds. Foreign species, however 

 interesting and valuable, are secondary. Pheasant-rear- 

 ing, moreover, has been practised for centuries, and is well 

 known, though I trust that the account farther on of meth- 

 ods by American experts will be of practical value. Particu- 

 lar interest has arisen all over this country in the problems 

 of propagating and increasing native "upland game-birds," 

 notably the bob- white. Very many persons are either 

 working at it or inquiring about it. Realizing this, I have 



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