Object numberRCSHC/P 63
Scientific nameGallus gallus
CollectionHunterian
CategoryDry preparations
Object nameLeg, Transplantation, Experimental, Union of Different Parts, Mounted dry bone and tissue
DescriptionThe legs of a cock showing a variation in spur length.
These legs belong to the same cock prepared in P62. The spurs are shown to differ in length by over an inch. The joints of the legs are also enlarged, and may show signs of rheumatoid arthritis.
Production date 1760 - 1793
Preparator
Owner/user
presented
Related objectsRCSHC/P 62
Physical Location
Location
Not on public display: contact museum for access conditions
Physical Information
Physical descriptionDry preparation of tissue and bone mounted in circular glass jar with glass lid.
Materialglass (material)
Dimensions
whole height: 179 mm
whole diameter: 126 mm
whole weight: 922 g
whole diameter: 126 mm
whole weight: 922 g
Bibliography
SourceProger 1966-1972
Vol. 1, page 30.
NotesText taken from Stanley & Paget (1846-9), and Paget (1882-5).
TranscriptThe legs of the same cock. One of the spurs is nearly an inch, the other two inches in length ; on both the legs, also, the horny scales are very large and thick, and the joints are enlarged, apparently by growths of bone.
SourceHunter 1861
Vol. 1, pages 55-56
NotesIn his manuscript notes Hunter describes experiments to establish the 'combative principle' in animals, by transplanting spurs from cockerels to hens and vice versa. He concludes that the growth of the spur correlates to the strength of the 'combative principle' in the animal as a whole, and that in general this element is weaker in hens than in cocks.