POULTRY JUDGING 171 



POULTRY JUDGING 



METHODS OF JUDGING 



In America there are three methods of judging: 

 (1) By the official' score card of the American Poultry 

 Association: (2) by the decimal score card; and (3) by 

 comparison. 



The practice of judging by score card was begun and 

 has continued in the United States and Canada ever 

 since the compilation of the first Standard by the 

 American Poultry Association. A few shows that are 

 held during Nov. and a large number that are held 

 between Dec. and April are judged by the score-card 

 method. The shows that are held from April to Nov. 

 are judged by comparison. The score-card method of 

 judging has been recognized by the American Poultry 

 Association since its origin. 



The decimal score card was introduced by I. K. Felch 

 in 1890, and since that time both the official and the 

 decimal score cards have been used. Although the 

 decimal score card has never been recognized by the 

 American Poultry Association, its use continues and 

 its advocates are increasing in number. 



Although comparison judging has been used for so 

 long in the placing of awards, in fact, much longer than 

 the score-card method, it did not have the sanction of 

 the American Poultry Association until 1904. Judging by 

 comparison is practiced each year at all shows held 

 prior to Nov. 1 throughout the United States and 

 Canada. Nearly all the larger exhibitions are judged 

 under the comparison system. 



The advantages of each method of judging depend on 

 the ability of the judges accurately to determine how 

 nearly the fowls under consideration approach the re- 

 quirements of the standard. The use of the score card is 

 considered of the greatest advantage to the amateur, 



