Fig. 1 .— A knock-kneed male bird— an undesirable breeder. 
The condition of flesh should be good, as a very thin bird is usually 
in poor health. Sick fowls or fowls which have apparently recovered 
from sickness should never be used by the club members for breeding 
if it can be avoided. 
OBJECT OF BREEDING. 
In selecting stock for mating, the club member must keep clearly 
in mind the purpose of the breeding. If it is the purpose to produce 
exhibition stock, it is necessary to select birds that are nearest the 
Farmers Bulletin H16. 
headed. ” The bird should be alert and have a strong, vigorous 
carriage; the legs should be set well apart and strongly support the 
body, giving no indication of weakness or a knock-kneed condition 
(see fig. 1). The bone, as seen in the shank, should be strong and 
not too fine for the breed, while the toes should be strong, straight, 
and not too long. The plumage should be clean and smooth, as a 
lack of condition often accompanies soiled, roughened plumage. 
