Smallholder Blue

Smallholder Scout Badge Blue Woven and Bound 1934 to 1967

The Smallholder was worn on the Right arm in between the shoulder and elbow.

A scout could not gain any more than 6 proficiency badges before gaining a First Class scout badge.

To earn this badge a scout must do the following *

(1) Keep at least six poultry for a minimum of'12 months and demonstrate that he has a practical knowledge of

(i) The advantages and disadvantages of four popular breeds in relation to their value as egg producers or table birds,

(ii) Handling birds and recognising those that are not healthy, on managing grass and earth runs.

(2) Show knowledge of the treatment of a broody hen and understand the running of an incubator.

(3) Know how to feed chicks and young birds and the different methods of rearing them.

Alternative

(1) Keep and rear rabbits for at least 12 months. Make a simple hutch and make up different rations to show the right amount of food and the proper uses and proportions of cereals, roots and green stuff.

(2) Show knowledge of the best breeds for fur and flesh production and know the weight and qualities of a good table rabbit. Be able to recognise six fur breeds.

(3) Skin a rabbit and dress it for market.

Alternative.

(1) Keep bees for at least 12 months. Demonstrate hive management and the handling of bees.

(2) be able to recognise larva, good and foul broods and sealed honey, and know at least one method of preventing a swarm.

(3) Be able to take a swarm and know the principles of artificial feeding.

(4) Recognise the queen, workers and drones and know the life circle.

(5) Produce a sample of honey from his own hive and discuss the importance of its production and the factors that affect it.

Alternative.

(1) Keep or care for pigeons for at least 12 months.

(2) Show a knowledge of dieting and feeding. Explain symptoms of the elementary pigeon diseases.

(3) Plan a method of training birds to return with messages from a distant point at least 100 miles away.

(4) Demonstrate ability to handle birds, including attaching messages and rubber rings to birds’ legs.

(5) Demonstrate knowledge of colours and quality by handling and other means.

*The Requirements for each badge varied through issues of POR