WASHINGTON:

GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE.

1897.

LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL.

U. S. Department of Agriculture,
Bureau of Animal Industry,
Washington, D. C., September 24, 1897.

Sir: I have the honor to transmit herewith, for publication as a Farmers' Bulletin, an article on Ducks and Geese, prepared by Mr George E. Howard, secretary of the National Poultry and Pigeon Association. It comprises an enumeration of the standard breeds of ducks and geese, and contains suggestions for their management. The practical information contained in this bulletin will undoubtedly prove of value to persons engaged in raising ducks and geese, and its publication and widespread distribution are respectfully recommended. The illustrations were drawn by the author from original sketches and photographs, with the exception of three of the cross-bred geese, which are after the illustrations published by the Rhode Island Experiment Station, and the wild goose, which is after the illustration in Wright's Book of Poultry. The author has received generous assistance in treating of the practical details from James Rankin, A. J. Hallock, George H. Pollard, and others who are largely engaged an the raising of water fowls for market.

Respectfully,

D. E. Salmon, Chief of Bureau.

Hon. James Wilson, Secretary.