UTILITY CLASSIFICATION 



91 



well developed. There are many reliable records of approximately 

 two hundred and fifty eggs per hen from well-bred birds. In their 

 first year the Plymouth Rocks make good winter layers, better in 

 some cases than the so-called egg breeds. When confined they also 

 do well. There is probably no other breed better adapted to the 

 varying conditions of environment, certainly none that combines 

 in one type so many desirable qualities. Some poultrymen prefer 

 the White Plymouth Rocks for market poultry, as they appear 

 better when dressed. The white pin-feathers are less showy after 



FIG. 58. An excellent general-purpose breed White Wyandotte pair. (Photo from Onlya 

 Farm, Florham Park, N. J.) 



dressing. There is practically no difference between the varieties 

 of this breed in other respects. 



The Wyandottes (Figs. 58 and 59) are rapidly gaining in popu- 

 larity, and probably rank second to the Plymouth Rocks. The 

 breed is newer, having been recognized since 1883. They are a 

 little smaller in size, with blockier, deeper body than the Plymouth 

 Rocks; and have rose combs. They have a neat and trim appear- 

 ance, and a full plump breast, with an abundance of white meat, 

 which makes them useful as roasters. The good breast meat also 

 makes them valuable for medium and large broilers. Records 

 show that they are good layers. The white variety (Fig. 58) leads 

 in popularity, as they are much easier to breed true to color. 



