Bits & Pieces

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Pre-Plucked Pullets

Researchers in California attempting to breed the perfect pullet have succeeded in producing a featherless chicken. Their attempts may have fallen a little short of perfection, however: Even though the bare birds eliminate the need for plucking and have fewer parasites, they seem to spend a great deal of energy trying to stay warm. Consequently, the wonder chickens eat more feed and lay fewer eggs. They're also more prone to disease than the unimproved feathered varieties.

Persuasive Argument for Organic Fertilizers

Rising natural gas prices will triple the retail price of nitrogen fertilizer by 1985, according to a U.S. Department of Commerce report. Farmers won't be the only ones affected: The cost of a bushel of corn could increase by 50%.

Frostline Kits Makes Last-Minute Comeback

In our last issue, we told you that unless a buyer turned up very fast, Frostline Kits, the "old timer" of outdoor gear kit-makers, would be no more. Well, a buyer did show. It's the same outfit, except for new faces and a new address, and it's holding to Fall '83 catalog prices. The company's new address is Frostline Kits/Customer Service, P.O. Box 55125, Grand Junction, CO 81505. We'll have more information for you in issue 88.

Human-Powered Speed

In 1980 a supine tricycle hit 58.89 MPH on level ground, establishing a record for single-rider human-powered vehicles that some folks believe can't be beat. But the people at Du Pont think otherwise. To encourage would be record breakers, they're willing to pay $15,000 to the first person to build and demonstrate a single-rider human-powered vehicle that reaches 65 MPH on level ground. Correspondence regarding the prize should be sent to the Du Pont Prize Committee, IHPVA, P.O. Box 2068, Seal Beach, CA 90740.

Migrating Birds Losing Winter Habitat

An article in a recent issue of National Wildlife brought the effects of tropical deforestation a bit closer to home. Studies indicate that the population decline of some North American migratory birds can be attributed to destruction of their winter habitat in South America. Affected populations include warblers, chats, flycatchers, thrushes, and buntings. Since more than one-third of the birds that breed in this country winter in the tropics, Latin American conservation practices may soon concern all Americans.