SELECTING A BREED TO KEEP 19 



white skins and dark shanks, which puts them at 

 a disadvantage on this account. The Black Minor- 

 cas are the more common. 



Anconas have achieved unexpected popularity 

 within the past few years, especially in the West- 

 They have most of the characteristics of the Leg- 

 horn, being small, active and exceedingly prolific, 

 while their eggs are large, white and well shaped. 

 Anconas are black, except that every fifth feather 

 has a white tip, giving the birds a very pleasing mot- 

 tled appearance, which doubtless has helped to win 

 the favor of breeders with an eye for striking and at- 

 tractive markings. 



The Black Spanish and'the Andalusians are satis- 

 factory breeds for egg production but are bred 

 mostly by fanciers, being, for one reason or another, 

 not in great favor with the majority of practical poul- 

 try keepers. Their markings are odd and interesting. 

 The Andalusians are especially curious, as their 

 feathers have a bluish tinge. Interest in blue fowls 

 has increased and there are blues in other classes. 



Of the English class, the Orpingtons in white, 

 buff and black varieties are enjoying considerable 

 prestige in this country, surprisingly large entries 

 being made at some of the Eastern shows. They 



