102 SELECTION OF STOCK 
a good number of fertile eggs which hatch into vigorous chicks; 
but the purchase of such individuals is rarely profitable. 
Size.—The stock purchased should be of good size for the breed. 
Lack of size is usually a sign of improper management during 
growth, of forced maturity due to late hatching, or of an inherited 
lack of vitality. Any one of these should stamp the bird as unsuit- 
able to be the parent of profitable layers or meat producers. The 
standard weight should be taken as a guide, and excess rather than 
under weight is to be preferred. When purchasing cockerels, an 
allowance must be made for age. With proper development they 
may make valuable birds in the breeding pen. 
Weight.—In the choosing of birds for meat purposes, the weight 
should be considered above size. Large, full-feathered birds may 
give the appearance of depth and height but show, when dressed, 
very little flesh development of a desirable character. In extremely 
old birds (three years or more) excessive weight should be avoided 
in the heavy breeds, as the tendency is for them to take on surplus 
fat in the nature of fatty deposits rather than an evenly distributed 
fat throughout the body. This makes them poor layers, with a 
low fertility and loss of vitality to the offspring. 
Shape—The standard shape of the breed chosen should be 
studied and selection made accordingly, for by so doing the progeny 
will conform more closely to the type selected and more nearly 
fit the purpose desired. Only by having the flock uniform in shape 
can they be considered strictly standard bred. By constantly 
selecting toward one shape, a greater uniformity will be gained in 
appearance and character of meat produced. This is of importance 
when broilers or roasters are dressed and packed for fancy or high- 
class trade. 
Color.—The endeavor should be made to have the color of the 
birds selected as near the standard requirements as possible. It 
may not be the purpose of the breeder to exhibit his birds for 
fancy points, yet the added attractiveness and appearance of his 
flock will warrant a constant attempt to breed the birds true to 
color markings as well as size and shape. The idea in selecting 
birds should be to combine the qualities which will fit them for 
the particular purpose in view and at the same time show the 
effect of breeding and selection for color, thus combining the 
fancy and utility sides of poultry keeping in a harmonious and 
coordinate way. 
Vigor.—Strong, vigorous constitutions in both males and 
