278 BIRDS 



ence, have proved to be perfectly fertile. Although such 

 hybridizing is perfectly feasible, geographical distribution 

 lends support to the belief that only the Red Jungle-fowl is 

 responsible for our present domestic breeds. 



The wonderful variations in size, form and color seen 

 among the numerous breeds form in themselves a matter 

 of extensive study. Because of this fact, and the existence 

 of many excellent works devoted to the subject, we shall 

 confine ourselves here to the bantams, which are essentially 

 pets, and have little other excuse for being. 



Bantams are well known as the " Banties " of the old- 

 fashioned barnyard. Their origin is not exactly known, 

 but they are believed to have come to Europe from the city 

 of Bantam, in Java, where they had been brought from 

 Japan. According to Harrison Weir, a well-known writer 

 on poultry, these birds were of the Black-breasted Red 

 type, but their legs were heavily feathered. The Booted 

 Bantams of today appear to be their direct descendants. 

 Another old breed was the Nankin, a small, buff-colored, 

 clean-legged bird, with a double or rose comb. This variety 

 has almost entirely disappeared. 



General Care 



Bantams are no more delicate than the larger breeds of 

 fowl. In fact, provided they are protected from dampness, 

 many are noted for their hardiness. The coop should be 

 dry and tight, so that neither water nor draughts can enter. 

 A southern exposure is best, and on this side there should 

 be a large window, which may be covered with wire in 

 summer and with muslin or cheesecloth during the winter. 

 At the side opposite should be a shelf, two or three feet from 

 the ground and wide enough to catch the droppings of the 

 birds as they sit upon the perch at night. The perches 



