CAPONS AND CAPONIZING 



193 



This must be torn with a sharp pointed hook (Figure 188h). 

 The intestines will now be seen and, when pushed aside 

 with the probe, (Figure 188g) two small cream-colored or 

 sometimes dark-colored testicles will be observed, one on 

 each side and close to the backbone. 



These should now be removed with the testicle remover 

 and, if possible, the lower one should be removed first. 

 Those not experienced in caponizing often find it difficult 

 to locate the lower testicle. When such is the case the upper 







Figure 196, — After the spreader is removed and the weights taken ofE the wings, 

 it will be noticed that the skin slips back over the incision so as to close it. 



one can be removed, the bird turned over and the other 

 testicle removed by repeating the operation on the other 

 side of the fowl. Practice, however, should make this 

 second operation unnecessary. 



Care must be taken when removing the testicle so as 

 not to break or rupture the arteries which lie close to them. 

 Should they be cut, the bird will bleed to death within a 

 few minutes. Such birds that may be killed during the 

 operation are suitable for eating and are not, therefore, a 

 loss. Observe closely and be sure that the entire testicle 

 is removed. If even a small portion is left, the bird will 

 not develop into a true capon but will look like a cockerel 



