330 ELEMENTS OF AGRICULTURE 



except in the neighborhood of large cities, where the Hoi- 

 steins outnumber the Jerseys. 



Guernsey cattle are similar to the Jerseys in many 

 respects. Like the Jerseys, they have been handicapped 

 by the limited numbers in their original home, so that 

 importations could not be so rapid as has been desired. 

 They are usually yellow or orange in color, with white 

 spots. The nose is flesh-colored, which distinguishes 

 them from the Jerseys. They are slightly larger than the 

 Jerseys. Their friends claim that they give more milk. 

 They are gaining in popularity in America. 



Ayrshires developed under more severe climatic con- 

 ditions, and are very active and hardy. They are not 

 well known in America outside of New York and New 

 England. 



292. Pedigrees. The breeders of each breed of pure- 

 bred stock have organizations for keeping the records 

 of breeding of the individuals and for advertising purposes. 

 Each animal that is born is eligible to record in the herd- 

 book, provided both its parents are recorded, and unless 

 disqualified for some defect. A record of an individual, 

 showing the parents, grandparents, etc., as far back as 

 the record has been kept, is called a pedigree. Americans 

 have been foremost in keeping up these books, because 

 we attach so much importance to pedigrees. No herd- 

 books were kept in Holland until our desire for pedigrees 

 made them necessary. Both Jersey and Holstein herd- 

 books were first established in the United States. 



We have always given more attention to pedigrees 

 than is given in Europe. In this country, no animal is 

 eligible to record unless both parents are recorded. In 



