VICES OF POULTRY. 301 



prone to occur in confinement, when fowls are close to- 

 gether with little to do. Certain breeds are thought by 

 some to be especially prone to it under these circum- 

 stances ; Houdans and Andalusians have that reputation, 

 but others have found them exemplary. It is probable 

 that insect vermin start the habit in some cases, and certain 

 authorities attribute all to this cause ; but we have been 

 consulted in one where close scrutiny could find no such 

 reason. We believe a craving for animal food not supplied 

 may occasionally be a reason ; also a feverish state of body 

 from want of green food ; or a sore place about the head of 

 any bird. For in the same category must be placed the 

 habit of pecking at the comb and face, until the fowl 

 attacked becomes a pitiable object. In this latter case it 

 is generally the cock which is attacked ; and the way in 

 which he stands perfectly still, apparently content and even 

 happy to have his comb and wattles torn to pieces, is a 

 proof of how little sensation there can be in these parts, 

 and how little truth in the charges of cruelty so recklessly 

 brought against those who dub their birds. 



This habit also is in some cases inveterate, when it has 

 been any time unchecked. Whatever the cause, these 

 things are not diseases, but real vices, or acquired vicious 

 and artificial appetites j and we have no moral sense to 

 appeal to. Many cases, however, have been and can be 

 cured. Any bird specially attacked must be isolated, as it 

 tempts the others ; on the other hand, if only one or two 

 are culprits, let them be removed ere they corrupt the 

 others. Vermin, if found, must be dealt with ; so also with 

 want of cleanliness, and above all, any deficiency in regular 

 and ample green food. Animal food must also be given in 

 proper but not excessive quantity, and small cooling and 

 tonic doses of Epsom salts say, ten grains each, which 

 is not a laxative after the first dose, will tend to allay 



