2G8 ANNUAL Rin'ORT OF TIIK (>;T. Doc. 



The difl'eience in the egg laying qualities is primarily the differ- 

 ence in the functional activity of the reproductive organs, and these 

 variations are very largely duo to outward conditions. 



Of the mature fowl all Ihe evident characters lor which she stands 

 are borne into her, hut the relative development may be due to the 

 surrounding ccmditions. It does not stand that because special char- 

 acters are strongly developed, in an individual they will be trans- 

 mitted with increased intensity because of extensive development 

 in the parent. The results of good food-nutrition are transmitted 

 to the offspring in the form of vigorous constitution and large powers 

 of assimilation and service. The above are some of the facts that 

 we gather from a careful study of Dr. Davenport's work. 



There are some strains of the breeds that are much better pro- 

 ducers than other strains it is true. The study into the facts show 

 til at the strains of fowls that are known as great producers possess 

 as a race a superior vitality and a very favorable environment. 



The housing of the fowls has much to do with vigor, hence effects 

 the profits. Prof. Graham, of Guleph, Canada, tells me that in a 

 five years continuous experiment the hens kept in open front houses 

 have averaged thirty per cent, more eggs than those kept in tight 

 houses. This is in accord with experiments at the Minnesota, Maine, 

 and other Experiment Stations, and my experience bears testimony 

 to the value of fresh air and the open front or fresh air house at 

 all times in the year, Winter and Summer. 



I have not yet been able to find a commercial poultry business 

 that has made a permanent success where intensive methods and 

 close yarding has been practiced. This despite the fact many books 

 of secrets and systems are being advertised wherein are Avonderful 

 statements of great profits on small areas. Show me one that has 

 made money for the owner for five consecutive years. Colony houses 

 on free range seem to be about the only solution of the problem 

 when it comes to a permanent business for profit in a commercial 

 way. 



The houses must be as cheaply constructed as is consistent Avith 

 convenience and fair durability. At Woodbine Farm the cost of 

 housing is not over thirty cents per head. Many are housed much 

 cheaper than this. 



The profits of the poultry business are made not only in securing 

 good prices for the product but in producing the i>roduct economic- 

 ally. Economy of production must be closely studied if we solve 

 the problem of profit in the business. 



Artificial methods of hatching and rearing the chix must be used 

 where large numbers are desired. The problem of renewing the 

 flocks from year to vear is a difficult one. We have solved it fullv 

 well by using good vigorous breeding stock and using no eggs over 

 three days old has helped much in getting good hatches of strong 

 vigorous chix. The chix need no feed for at least three days after 

 hatching. The Kansas Station found the best results were to be 

 had by giving the chix no feed till they were ninety hours old. We 

 make the first feed of green grass finely cut; and try to keep as 

 close natural lines as we can. A study of the composition of food- 

 stuffs and animal nutrition has enabled us to so feed as to have 

 the chicks live and grow. 



