96 PROFITS IN POULTRY. 



twisted off by turning the forceps ; and when this has 

 been done, the other one is removed in the same way. 

 Care must be taken not to injure the blood-vessel which 

 is connected with the organs, as this is the only seat of 

 danger in the operation, and its rupture will generally 

 be fatal. The hook is then removed, and if the skin 

 has been drawn backward at the outset it will now slip 



Fig 58. TWEEZERS. 



forward and cover the inner skin which covers the intes- 

 tines, and close the opening. No stitching is needed. 

 A few feathers are drawn together on each side of the 

 opening and plastered down upon the skin with the blood, 

 where they will dry and form the best possible covering 

 to the wound, which will begin to heal at once. The 

 bird should be fed with a very little soft bread and milk 

 for a few days after the operation, but should have 



Fig. 59. FORCEPS. 



plenty of water. For two nights and one day before the 

 operation no food nor water should be given to the birds ; 

 this will greatly facilitate the work and reduce the 

 chances of loss. The operation, after a few successful 

 trials, may be performed in less than one minute, and l>y 

 the use of the rings and tapes, no assistance is needed. 

 Capons may be made to earn their food by fostering 

 young chicks, to which business they take very kindly. 



