T^OX FARMING, or as it is called in Canadian Prov- 

 inces, " fox ranching," has attracted wide notice 

 chiefly because of the enormous profits claimed for it. As 

 would be expected in the case of a new and profitable 

 business, many erroneous impressions have been entertained, 

 the result of misleading statements made partly through 

 lack of authentic information and partly with the purpose 

 of interesting investors. When rightly undertaken, how - 

 ever, and with due consideration to climate, surroundings, 

 and breeding stock, fox farming, and especially the breed- 

 ing of silver foxes, frequently has proved profitable. 



In the following pages are considered facts relative to 

 the development of silver fox farming; the precautions 

 necessary to be taken with the animals in breeding and in 

 sickness and health ; the construction of inclosures and nest- 

 ing dens; the expenses of the business as well as its profits; 

 and, in general, how and where fox farming may be 

 undertaken with the promise of any degree of success. 

 The distinction between red, cross, silver, and black foxes 

 is explained and the relative values of the pelts discussed. 



The softer and more beautiful furs naturally bring the 

 higher prices, and few wild fur-bearing animals surpass 

 the silver fox in this respect. 



The lessening numbers of the animals in the wild state 

 together with the increasing demand for their furs sound a 

 warning that if this demand is to continue to be met it must 

 be through domestication. 



In certain cool climates the animals may be reared in 

 captivity just as are domestic cattle and poultry. The areas 

 suitable in the main for experiments in silver fox farming 

 may be ascertained by reference to the map and its explana- 

 tion on page 8. 



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