EXHIBITION OF STANDARD-BRED POULTRY 479 



to the standard as nearly as possible. In making a selection the 

 following rules will usually hold good: 



Study the parts of the head particularly, as they are the 

 most easily seen, and any defect in comb, wattles, or eyes will 

 quickly be noticed by the judge and visitors. 



The conformation of the body should be observed, and no 

 bird exhibited which has not the typical shape for that breed. 



The color markings are important, and both surface and 

 under color should be studied. 



In choosing between two or more birds, the one having a 

 very glaring defect should be discarded for one with minor de- 

 fects, even though in greater number. 



A brassy or creamy tint in the plumage of a white bird is a 

 serious defect. It is impossible to win a prize or even create a 

 pleasing impression with such a specimen. 



Large birds which come up to, or a little above, standard 

 weight should be given the preference over small or undersized 

 specimens, if other things are equal. Birds below standard weight 

 may possibly be brought up to the desired point by feeding. 



Having selected specimens according to these rules, they 

 should be placed in training pens, and continually posed until 

 they learn to stand in the desired position, the trainer using a 

 small round stick for this purpose. Nervous birds require a much 

 longer time for proper training. The more frequently the birds 

 are handled, the more quickly will they become submissive. 

 Slight defects in the angle of the comb, wattles, or tail, may be 

 wholly or in part corrected by persistent manipulation with the 

 fingers. The exhibitor should send his birds to the show abso- 

 lutely clean; this means the washing of the comb, wattles, and 

 ear lobes, and of the shanks and toes, with warm water and brush 

 to remove dirt from between the toes and under the scales. After 

 they are clean, they should be sponged with clean cold water, 

 then rubbed with carbolated vaseline, and immediately wiped 

 perfectly dry with a soft cloth. 



Birds with soiled plumage should be washed, which greatly 

 improves their appearance. Washing is a delicate operation 

 which, to be well done, requires some experience. The amateur 

 should practise on cull specimens before attempting to wash 

 show birds (Figs. 207 and 208). Washing should be done in a 

 room heated to a temperature of about 85 F. Four large wash- 

 tubs are required. The birds being immersed in the first tub 



