8 DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. 



The Albinos are sometimes of pure Belgian origin ; sometimes the result of a 

 cross between Belgian and Flemish, and yet again are oftentimes able to claim a 

 pure-bred rabbit as sire or dam, and the other parent may be just a cross-bred 

 animal. When bred to a good size, the fur should command a much higher price 

 than either the skin of the Belgian, Flemish, or New Zealand. 



Albino doe, " Wildwood Lily." This doe littered one week 

 before photo was taken. In shape and type she resembles the 

 Flemish Giant. 



SELECTION OF STOCK. 



When purchasing stock, it is desirable, if possible, to visit the rabbitry before 

 buying. One can then make a better selection than would be possible by corres- 

 pondence with breeders at a distance. Whilst the weight requirements for Flemish 

 Giants are given in the standard as not less than 11 (Ib. for bucks and not less than 

 13 Ib. for does, it has been found that does from 9 to 12 Ib. are equally profitable. 

 Handle carefully all rabbits one intends to buy. Pass the hand over the back and 

 feel for unnatural swellings of any kind. Look well into the ears and eyes, and 

 make sure there is no discharge from the nostrils. Examine the fore and hind feet 

 for soreness, and also inspect for sexual inflammation. The above precautions are 

 given because quite often one may purchase from a beginner who may know less 

 than oneself regarding these matters. 



It is advisable to inquire as to system of feeding, ration fed, and method of 

 housing, so >as not to make too big^a change when starting. 



The beginner should start in a small way, thus learning the business at less 

 risk and cost. Purchase of three or four does and one unrelated buck will give a 

 good start. Both sexes should be purchased from stock of vigorous constitution 

 and prolific in breeding. 



HOUSING. 



Quite a few systems are used for housing rabbits, and each has its champions. 

 Probably there are more rabbits kept in individual, stationary hutches than in any 

 other quarters. The reason for this is mainly a matter of economy with the average 

 breeder. Hutches that have proved very serviceable have been made by utilizing 



