156 



HOUSING 



of birds, if there be more than one, a small exercise yard, 

 connected with which is a much larger one, in which green 

 feed grows, and into which the birds are turned loose at 

 frequent intervals to pasture. This method works admirably 

 where there are a number of pens close together, as in a 

 long laying house. 



House 



5 ING IF 



YARD 



House 



DOUBLE 

 /? 

 YARDS 



FIG. 84. Single and double yard. Birds are allowed first in yard No. 1 and then 

 in yard No. 2, green crops being grown in each yard while it is vacant. 



The success of the alternating yard system depends upon 

 securing a good rotation of crops. The subjoined outline shows 

 a simple system adapted to almost any climate. Other crops 

 may be sown, but the principle will be the same (Fig. 85). 



YARD 1 



Seeding time Crop 



April 15 Peas and oats 



July 15 Soy beans 



YARD 2 



Seeding time Crop 



June 1 Buckwheat 



September 1 Winter wheat 



and rye 



