Chickens are fun, useful, and easy to keep. If you have ever considered raising your own backyard flock, <em>The Illustrated Guide to Chickens</em> is the book for you! It offers practical advice and contains all the information you need to choose from one of the 100 most familiar breeds of chicken in North America and Europe to raise. Each breed's profile is written in engaging text that covers its history and main characteristics. You'll also find practical advice about poultry rearing and husbandry and the pros and cons of pure breeds, hybrids, bantams, game foul, and the like.