Fancy Pi'crco 



lis. 



object the production of living- pictures, beautiful in form and rich in 

 colour. It is an art requiring much thought and study, and is excelled 

 in only by such as have served a long apprenticeship to it. As an 

 engaging pastime for their leisure hours, before and after the sterner 

 business of life, many find relaxation, both for body and mind in keeping 

 and breeding these birds, which, from their very nature, are universal 

 favourites. 



"When skill and experience are brought to bear on pigeon breeding, as 

 on any other kindred amusement, such as dog or cage bird breeding, it 

 can generally be made to pay, at least, the expenses connected with it, 

 and therefore many arc not deterred from engaging in what would otherwise 

 be beyond their reach. During the last twenty-five years the show system 

 has developed greatly, and many who have a love for pigeons, but who have 

 not the skill or patience necessary to produce them for themselves, are 

 willing to give large sums for choice specimens, either to gratify their taste 

 or to win prizes with. The breeder has a great pleasure in producing, 

 and the purchaser in owning, such good birds, and each party helps the 

 other. The show system has not injured our choicest varieties, in my 

 opinion, for competition has increased the number of breeders considerably, 

 and given them an outlet both for their show, and surplus stock, as was 

 quite unknown l:)efore. 



In the following chapters on the subject of fancy pigeons, concerning 

 their history, literature, management, and varieties, I hope to give au 

 account of some kinds not known, or but little knoivn, in this country, 

 and to treat the whole subject in as lucid a manner as possible for the 

 benefit of young pigeon fanciers. 



