23 



farmers' BULLETIN 795. 



small litters or have not been tested. Inasmuch as one of the main 

 causes of loss among young cubs is the timidity and nervousness of 

 vixens, the development of more docile strains will result in corre- 

 sponding increase in the birth rate. Some male foxes are much better- 

 mates and sires than others. In selecting breeders the temperament 

 of males as Avell as of vixens should be considered. The physical 

 development and potency of males are also essential factors. Young 

 males that are not strong or not well developed when six months old 

 are not likely to be of use in the breeding yards the first year and 

 should not be selected for sires. 



Food is recognized as a very important element in the develop- 

 ment of good animals. The finest specimens of domestic cattle are 

 those which have been fed most wisely. As regards foxes, much 

 remains to be learned concerning the effects of different rations upon 

 such matters as fecundity, character of fur, and rate and limits of 

 growth. It should be a part of every breeder's plan to discover all 

 he can about the relative values of foods and methods of handling, 

 as influencing the process of selective breeding. Ultimate success or 

 failure in fox farming depends largely upon the aspirations of those 

 engaged in it. If breeders earnestly, consistently, and indefatigably 

 endeavor to improve their stock and to produce pelts that are larger, 

 softer, and more uniformly colored than the usual run, there can be 

 no question as to the result. There will never come a time when an 

 extra fine silver fox pelt will not command a good price nor when a 

 breed producing such pelts will not be in demand. 



ACCESSORIES. 



Contentment and vigor of the animals within a ranch is of the 

 utmost importance. Whatever contributes toward increasing these 

 qualities should be incorporated if possible. It is well to test young 

 foxes with such toys as a ball, a tin can, or a piece of woolen cloth, 

 with a view to amusing them and exciting a spirit of playfulness. 

 A variety of objects in which they can hide and upon which they can 

 mount for a survey of their surroundings, as hollow logs, stumps, 

 brush piles, or open barrels, is desirable. 



While the suggestions given under this heading apply primarily to 

 persons having large capital invested in fox farming, they will also 

 be found helpful to those operating on a small scale. The present 

 value of silver foxes is so great that every precaution is taken to pre- 

 vent accidents, sickness, or other misfortunes. Watchmen are kept on 

 guard day and night. The keeper's lodge is just outside the guard 

 fence. In addition there is sometimes a tower, from the top of which 

 a view can be had of all the yards. Here are recorded the progress of 

 events in the breeding season ; and from here quarrels, accidents, or 

 signs of sickness can be discovered without alarming the animals. 



