How To Choose Fowls

A young rooster has a smooth leg and short spur; vent close and dark. Young hens have smooth legs and combs. A good capon has a thick belly and large rump.

How To Choose Turkey

The male bird, when young, has a smooth black leg and short spur; eyes bright and full, and feet supple. The hen may be judged in the same manner.

How To Choose Ducks

In young ducks the feet and bills will be yellow and free from hair. When fresh, the feet are pliable; they are stiff when stale.

How To Choose Geese

Geese may be selected by the same rules.

How To Choose Pigeons

Pigeons should have supple feet and firm vents. If discolored, reject them.

How To Choose Partridges

Yellow legs and dark bills are the best signs by which a young bird may be known; a rigid vent when fresh.

How To Choose Rabbits

A young, fresh rabbit should have a stiff body, the cleft in the lip narrow, the claws smooth and sharp.

How To Choose Grouse, Woodcock, Snipe, Quail, etc

Grouse, Woodcock, Snipe, Quail, etc. may be chosen by the above rules. Buy a white-legged fowl for boiling, and a dark-legged one for roasting.