PEEFACE. 



The fact that Poultry-breeding is increasing to such 

 an extent in England, and the numerous enquiries 

 the Author receives regarding the many parasitic 

 diseases to which Poultry are subject, has influenced 

 him in issuing this small Manual relating to the para- 

 sitic infestation of Fowls and the various methods 

 of coping with such diseases. The worst parasitic 

 diseases in Fowls are due to animal parasites, such, 

 for instance, as the ' Gapes' and Diphtheritic Roup; 

 a few minor complaints are, however, due to 

 Vegetable Parasites — minute fungi. In many cases 

 the knowledge of the life-history of these enemies 

 helps us to be able to battle with them more success- 

 fully. One of the objects of this Manual is to place 

 before Poultry-keepers all the changes through which 

 these pests go, with reference particularly to those 

 points in their life-history that are of some economic 

 importance. My best thanks are due to the many 



