!>2 Technical Terms. 



In our descriptions of the various Breeds, we have given 

 sufficient general information upon the Exhibition Points 

 from the best authorities ; but considerable differences of 

 opinion have been expressed of late years, and eminent 

 breeders dissent in some cases even from the generally 

 recognised authority of the popular " Standard of Excel- 

 lence." We, therefore, advise intending exhibitors to 

 ascertain the standards to be followed at the show and the 

 predilections of the judges, and to breed accordingly, or, if 

 they object to the views held, not to compete at that 

 exhibition. 



TECHNICAL TERMS. 



Coverts. The upper and lower icing coverts are those 

 ranges of feathers which cover the primary quills ; and the 

 tail coverts are those feathers growing on each side of 

 the tail, and are longer than the body feathers, but shorter 

 than those of the tail. 



Dubbing. Cutting off the comb and wattles of a cock; 

 an operation usually confined to Game cocks. 



Ear-lobe. The small feathers covering the organ of 

 hearing, which is placed a little behind the eye. 



Flight. The last five feathers of each wing. 



Fluff. The silky feathers growing on the thighs and 

 hinder parts of Cochin-China fowls. 



Hackles. The neck hackles are feathers growing from 

 the neck, and covering the shoulders and part of the back ; 

 and the saddle hackles those growing from the end of the 

 back, and falling over the sides. 



Legs. The legs are properly the lower and scaly limbs, 

 the upper part covered with feathers and frequently mis- 

 called legs, being correctly styled the thighs. 



Primary Quills. The long, strong quills, usually ten 

 in number, forming the chief portion of each wing, and the 

 means of flight. 



Vulture-hocked. Feathers growing from the thigh, and 

 projecting backwards below the knee. 



