Egg Production for Profit. BSO' 



the nest boxes should be hinged and the eggs can then be col- 

 lected easily. Provide shelter at the opposite end of the run. 

 One corner may be used as a dust bath, and a roof about 6 feet 

 square will be sufficient cover. A frame about the same dimen- 

 sions and 6 inches high will form the dust bath, which can be supplied 

 with a mixture of wood-ashes and sand and a little sulphur. The 

 scratching shed can be about the same size, and a few loads of 

 short straw or stable litter on the floor will answer the purpose 

 required. 



A male bird need not be placed with the hens when the eggs are 

 not required for setting. They will keep much better if not fertilized, 

 and the hens will also produce more eggs. 



To obtain best results from your hens, feed on the following 

 lines : — Morning meal, one half pollard, quarter bran, and quarter 

 lucerne chaff or green food chopped fine, mix dry and add enough 

 boiling water or separated milk to moisten the whole. A wooden 

 trough, 2 feet 6 inches by 4 feet, and 8 inches high, the front set at 

 an angle of 40 degrees to allow the spade to be freely used in mixing, 

 will be found of much benefit. This trough will allow the food to 

 cool quickly, if required. For mid-day and evening meal heavy 

 Algerian oats may be given and a handful to each bird for the latter 

 meal and about half the quantity for the mid-day. Wheat may 

 be used alternately, giving a slightly less quantity. In the 

 winter months maize can be given occasionally, taking care to 

 stop it altogether if the birds are in too high condition. When 

 birds become too fat increase the supply of green food. Green 

 cut bone will increase egg production, and about 21bs. of fresh 

 cut bone may be given twice a week to 50 fowls. It contains 

 the necessary ingredients for egg formation, and should be regularly 

 used as directed during the winter months when the weather is 

 cold and insects, worms, etc., cannot be obtained. Troughs should 

 be used for feeding purposes, and a plentiful supply of green food, 

 if necessary. Fresh and pure water should be always available, and 

 a plentiful supply of grit should be always at hand. 



Warmth tends to increase egg production, and both houses and 

 runs should be specially regulated in this respect. 



