134 



ANIMAL CASTRATION 



introduced into America. At present capons are most universally known 

 and appreciated in France; it is only within the last few j^ears that the 

 business of producing them has advanced rapidly in this country. The in- 

 dustry is largely confined to that portion of the United States east of Phila- 

 delphia, though increasing numbers of capons are being raised in the 

 North Central States. During the winter moiiths, capons are regularly 

 quoted in the markets of the larger eastern cities. Massachusetts and New 



Fig. 115 — Caponizmg board. A, Board; C, feet Imprisoned in strap loop; 

 B, weiglit on end of strap; E, wings imprisoned in staple. 



Jersey are the great centers for the growing of capons, while Boston, New 

 York and Philadelphia are the great markets. 



Oijecis and Indications — Caponizing changes a male chicken's disposi- 

 tion to the extent that he no longer shows an inclination to fight; he be- 

 comes sluggish and c|uiet and more docile. The true capon never crows. 

 The comb and wattles cease to grow. His society is not sought bj^ other 

 chickens — either cocks or hens — he becomes an outcast and on this account 

 oftentimes takes up with baby chicks even to the extent of "mothering" 

 them, scratching and working for them by day and hovering them by 

 night. On account of the more peaceful disposition of the capon his body 



