Construction of Perches 113 



eluded, however, low perches are considered just 

 as safe and much better for heavy-bodied fowls. 

 More or less clumsy, heavy-bodied fowls ascend 

 to high perches with difficulty, and are likely to 

 be injured in alighting from any considerable 

 elevation. Convenient ladders or walks may be 

 constructed, which will enable the fowls to ap- 

 proach the perches without great effort, but there 

 are always times when clumsy fowls will attempt 

 to fly to the floor, although injury to themselves 

 may result. Leghorns and other egg breeds may 

 safely perch somewhat higher than the Asiatics, 

 and if the buildings are well constructed this 

 may be an advantage in cold weather, as the 

 fowls will undoubtedly find it somewhat warmer 

 on high perches than on low ones. Only mov- 

 able perches should be constructed. A 2 x 3 

 scantling set edgewise, with the upper corners 

 rounded, answers every purpose and makes a 

 satisfactory perch. Poles or narrow boards may 

 be used, but whatever material is selected the 

 perches should be so constructed that they will 

 be firm and will not tip or rock when fowls 

 alight on them. A small scantling is easy to 

 secure firmly and also to clean and to disin- 

 fect. Underneath the perches a smooth platform 

 should always be placed to catch the droppings, 

 This is recommended for two reasons: first, it 

 is much easier to keep the house clean and free 



