Includes bibliographical references (p. 270) and index.

Presents more than 120 barnyard fowl and wild fowl from chickens and turkeys to emus and pheasants. For each animal, readers will find color photographs, a brief history, and a detailed description. The identifying characteristics included for each breed are: class (standard and bantam); size (for cocks and hens); appearance of comb, wattles, and earlobes; color (everything from black-breasted red to silver laced); place of origin; conservation status; and special qualities (including longevity, size and quantity of eggs, quality of meat, and other relevant uses).