JERSEY BLUES. 237 



in hackle or tail. If even all over, the hens may differ a 

 little in shade ; and indeed such an assortment is most likely, 

 amongst them, to hit the mark. 



Partridge Wyandottes are rather frequently exhibited, 

 and there were fair classes at the Crystal Palace in 1898. 

 The colour and pencilling is not only pretty, but seems to 

 suit the real Wyandotte shape very well ; only unfortunately 

 that shape has so far been much lacking, the deficient 

 Cochin breast being but too prominent in those exhibited. 

 This fault will doubtless be corrected in time. 



Cuckoos are also seen occasionally. Such multiplication 

 of varieties is very undesirable in a purely cross-made 

 breed of this kind. Moreover, as the very idea of the 

 Wyandotte originally was a large useful bird with laced 

 plumage, it is difficult to see what selfs and quite different 

 markings have to do with it. It is certainly a pity that 

 three varieties with so much in common as Buff Wyan- 

 dottes, Buff Rocks, and Buff Orpingtons, all depending 

 upon Cochin blood for their origin, should be encouraged. 



Like most cross-made breeds, the Wyandotte is hardy 

 when not too much inbred, its shape is extremely good for 

 table, and it is a wonderful layer of brown eggs, which, 

 however, are on the average a little small. The White 

 variety being easiest to breed, is the best layer, so far as 

 we know, and a large flock of birds of this colour has been 

 known to average 175 eggs in a year. 



JERSEY BLUES are still bred in America, though not 

 popular ; in England they have as yet not established any 

 footing. They may be described as in shape a Plymouth 

 Rock, slightly larger, with slightly longer neck and shorter 

 tail, but with the colour of the Andalusian, both in legs and 

 plumage. They are no doubt a sport from the Plymouth 

 Rock, but a much less attractive fowl. 



