HOUSES, HUTCHES AND YARDS 71 



without let or hindrance, the expectation be- 

 ing that in a few years a very large number 

 would have been accumulated at almost no 

 expense for feeding or care. This alluring 

 proposition invariably failed to work out ac- 

 cording to specifications. Belgian hares and 

 all the other domesticated rabbits, being made 

 breeds, are not adapted to even a semi-wild 

 life. If turned out into the woods or fields to 

 shift for themselves entirely, they are soon 

 entirely exterminated. Like cows or sheep or 

 any other of the farmer's livestock, they need 

 man's protection and care. 



It is possible, though, to keep animals in a 

 small yard or court if the number is not too 

 large. A paved court, or one with a board 

 floor, can be handled in much the same way as 

 a hutch, except on a larger scale, and will 

 accommodate a considerable number of young 

 animals. Wire netting may also be used to 

 cover the bottom of an enclosed yard. It is 

 an advantage to have it an inch or two under 

 the surface. The rabbits will try to dig 

 through this, but after one or two attempts 

 will give up. Unless prevented by some kind 

 of a barrier, the rabbits will dig holes all 



