606 BULLETIN No. 129. [November, 



PLATE 20. CHOICE EWES. 



GOOD Ew^s 



Good ewes are appreciably open to criticism in condition and 

 often in quality. In most seasons of the year, ewes, choice in con- 

 dition and quality but of the unhandy weights, ranging 1 from 115 

 to 130 pounds, are also placed in this grade. See plate 21. 



MEDIUM EWES 



Underfinished condition and advanced age are usually evident 

 in this grade. Often ewes and their lambs are sent to market to- 

 gether. Ewes in such shipments are frequently too low in condi- 

 tion to be above the medium grade. The mutton from this grade 

 goes to supply a cheap trade. See plate 22. 



COMMON OR CULX EWES 



Offerings of this grade are pronounced in their lack of condi- 

 tion. Toothless old ewes, too decrepit to make use of feed and 

 thus regain desirable condition, are slaughtered for the cheapest 

 class of trade. As the winter season advances a number of ewes 

 appear on the market well advanced in pregnancy. Such ewes, al- 

 though they may be of choice quality and condition, sell as com- 

 mon ewes because of their high .percentage of waste and the ill 

 effects pregnancy is said to have upon the color of the carcass. 

 General quality cuts little figure in this grade, as the generaf un- 

 desirability passes all offerings through at about the same price. 

 See plate 23. 



