224 PROGRESSIVE POULTRY CULTURE 



sations and conferences with poultry specialists, who are 

 usually very ready to impart information to the inter- 

 ested poultryman. 



Much valuable information is also obtained from 

 the best poultry books andi periodicals and from federal 

 and state reports and bulletins treating of pure-bred 

 fowl and the keeping of poultry. 



Thus by self j directed, earnest study, by personal 

 management of his flocks and by association work, the 

 fancier becomes educated, experienced and expert in his 

 line of Doultry culture. 



Not the least encouraging feature of this plan is 

 that, while learning himself, the fancier is also helping 

 to teach others and is aiding in the advancement of the 

 poultry calling, 



FORE-WORK FOR THE FANCIER. 



The foundation for success with exhibition fowls is 

 well laid when the fancier selects the best possible stock 

 and correctly mates the birds according to the steadfast 

 principles and sensible practices of breeding. 



The proper feeding and management of the stock, 

 the scrupulous- care of the fertile eggsi and their skillful 

 incubating all have large influence upon the final results 

 in the show-room. 



After the chicks are well hatched they must have 

 due attention to keep them growing thriftily and stead- 

 ily developing their good qualities. 



iSome exhibitors prefer the natural method of hatch- 

 ing and brooding while others trust to incubators and 

 machine mothers. 



Pull instructions in these matters have been given 

 in previous chapters. Whatever the method pursued it 

 is careful, interested, personal attention to details that 

 determines the results. 



The secret of success, if secret it may be termed, 

 Is to make each and every condition of shelter, feeding, 

 exercise and control ever helping and never hindering 



