184 DIFFERENT BREEDS OF POULTRY. 



they are rather small, the cocks weighing only from four to 

 five pounds. They make most exquisite pets, being very tame, 

 but at the same time brisk and lively ; and their quaint little 

 ways never fail to afford much amusement. They are well 

 adapted to confinement. 



The plumage is pure white, crest included, in which they 

 therefore resemble the white Polish. They differ, however, 

 very greatly in appearance. Their legs are very short, and 

 feathered to the toes ; the thighs being also abundantly fur- 

 nished, and vulture-hocked. They are likewise amply muffed 

 and whiskered round the throat, and the tail of the cock is 

 remarkably full and flowing. The crest differs from that of 

 most other Polish, being more erect, and not hiding the eyes. 

 The comb consists of two spikes in front of the crest. The 

 legs are whitish, and when first imported and shown had the fifth 

 toe of the Dorking, but of late this feature is uncertain, and 

 seems left an open question. At one time Sultans were even 

 shown without beards, but in this case judging has returned 

 again to the earlier standard. 



There is a breed known as Ptarmigans, which is evidently 

 a degenerate descendant from some former importation of 

 Sultans. 



Some special precautions are necessary in rearing Polish 

 chickens. The prominence in the skull, which supports the 

 crest, is never completely covered with bone, and is peculiarly 

 sensitive to injury. On this account Cochins, or other large 

 heavy hens, should never be employed as mothers. A Game hen 

 will be the best. The young also fledge early and rapidly, and 

 usually suffer severely in the process ; they therefore require 

 an ample allowance of the most stimulating food, such as 

 worms, meat, and in bad weather bread steeped in ale. Above 

 all, they must be kept dry. 



Polish fowls have certainly solid merits. They improve in 

 appearance, at least up to the third year. In a favourable 



