6 Farmers’ Bulletin 1115. 
satisfactory plan is to confine the birds for a part of each day or 
every other day alternately up to a few days before sending them 
to the show, when they should be confined until ready to ship. 
Washing the plumage.—AIl white varieties of fowls, such as the 
White Leghorns and White Plymouth Rocks, and those having con- 
siderable white plumage, such as Columbian Plymouth Rocks and 
Light Brahmas, and even the buff varieties, should be washed in 
order to make the best possible showing when exhibited. Dark- 
colored fowls, such as Rhode Island Reds and Barred Plymouth 
Rocks, need not be washed unless their plumage is considerably 
soiled. ‘The head, feet, and shanks, however, of all varieties should 
be properly cleaned as described later. The actual washing of birds 
/ 
Fic, 3.—This poultry-club member is closely examining the head parts of her White 
Leghorn male for defects. 
is not a difficult operation, and with a little practice boys and girls 
will soon become proficient in the work. Before attempting to wash 
the birds that are to be shown, select from the flock two or three 
fowls that are not going to be exhibited and wash them as described 
herein so as to gain confidence and practice before washing those 
that are to be shown. 
The birds should be washed in a room or building where the tem- 
perature is from 70° to 80° F. and in a place that is free from drafts. 
The washing should be done in the morning so that the birds may 
have time enough to dry completely before night. 
