THE PATAGONIAN RABBIT 55 



which although such large animals are not found to be 

 proportionately large eaters, and are so hardy in 

 constitution, that when provided with some protection 

 against wet or very cold weather, have been found to do 

 well in the open. 



But if this is done, a suitable season in the late spring 

 or early summer should be chosen, and the young stock 

 intended to be turned out acclimatised for a while in 

 outside hutches. The place for the change should be as 

 warm and sheltered as possible, protected with wire 

 netting let deep into the ground, and supported with 

 stakes at intervals to guard against the entry of un- 

 desirable visitors of all kinds. 



The early part of the year, after February, is thought 

 the best time to commence breeding operations, and if 

 the stock is mainly meant for table purposes, keep a 

 number of youngsters together in a shed, or room, where 

 plenty of suitable food, such as sweet hay, crushed oats, 

 milk and sow thistles, plantains, dandelions, etc., are 

 provided, avoiding such as are too aperient in nature. 



Almost any time between three and six months old 

 they may be put up for fattening, when those selected 

 should be moved into separate hutches. Oats and 

 barley are good staples for their food, but a little meal 

 may occasionally be given. If they have been used to a 

 little oil cake it will have a good effect in increasing 

 weight, but, of course, the taste for it must be acquired. 



Almost every house has crusts and ends of bread 

 which are not valued, and Patagonians are very fond of 

 these, and this addition to the diet of those being fattened 



