i8 
Bulletin i 13. 
though very hungry, they at first refused to eat, but latei ate laige 
quantities of it without any ill effects. The experiments with tall 
larkspur were equally as confusing, fl he fact that the plants at one 
period of growth gave negative results was no guaranty that it 
would not be dangerous at another. The tall larkspur growing 
luxuriantly on the college campus proved to be very active, physio¬ 
logically, and furnished the best specimens for producing the 
physiological effects upon animals. In the experiments with anti¬ 
dotes this domesticated species was found to be very poisonous 
while in bloom in the middle of August. 
Two other species, D. Barbeyi, (Huth) and D. Geycri 
(Greene), found growing sparingly under conditions about the 
same as the species mentioned, were found to be poisonous. Their 
relative toxicity, however, was not considered, as they were not 
found in great abundance. 
The several conclusions arrived at with reference to larkspur 
are as follows: First, at least eighteen species, and several varie¬ 
ties of larkspur, have been found growing in the State. Four grow¬ 
ing in the greatest abundance are known to contain an active poison 
in sufficient quantities to be dangerous to live stock. 
Second, death is produced as a result of the presence of an 
active poison, and not from “bloat,” as many stockmen have 
claimed. 
Third, the toxic principle of larkspur has not yet been de¬ 
termined for these species, but is probably delphinine and allied 
alkaloids present in other species that have not been fully studied. 
Fourth, the plant loses its toxic qualities as it approaches the 
flowering season and finally becomes harmless. # • 
Fifth, two species, because of their abundance, are doing- 
most of the damage, i. c., tall larkspur (Delphinium clougcttuiii '), and 
purple larkspur (Delphinium Nelsonii.) 
Sixth, stockmen generally have little knowledge of the identity, 
poisonous nature, or satisfactory remedy for larkspur. 
Seventh, considering the enormous loss and the fact that 
larkspur is usually found in circumscribed areas, it would seem 
feasible, in many localities at least, to undertake its eradication by 
the grubbing hoe. 
Kighth, by avoiding the areas where larkspur abounds duiing 
the months of April, May, and June, the loss can be reduced to 
the minimum. 
Ninth, in potassium permanganate and atropia sulphate, re¬ 
spectively, we have a chemical and physiological antidote of leal 
practical value. Stimulants are indicated. Tapping should be 
done with trocar and canula high up on the left side, aftei first mak¬ 
ing slight incision on the skin with a knife. In case of extreme 
