FEEDING FOR GROWTH 243 



are taken from the brooder house and put on range. From 

 this time until maturity the object of feeding is to promote 

 uniform and continuous growth, for such a development 

 conduces to greater uniformity of flesh, and higher vitality 

 at maturity (Fig. 134). 



FEEDING BROODER CHICKS 



A simple method of feeding the brooder chicks is outlined 

 in detail in Chapter XII, page 138. A general knowledge of 

 what chicks require, and the essentials in their management, 

 is necessary in order to purchase or mix their rations. 



Principles Involved. The feed should be limited during 

 the brooding period. It is well known that just before the 

 chicks are hatched that part of the yolk which remains is 

 absorbed by the body. This serves as food, and nourishes 

 the chick for the first thirty-six to forty-six hours after it 

 emerges from the shell. Heavy feeding of concentrated 

 feeds during the first three days is apt to upset the digestive 

 system, and to cause death. 



Frequent feeding is, however, most essential. The young 

 chick grows rapidly, and develops in size much faster than 

 any other animal. It has, too, a very small stomach, so that 

 in order to provide a continuous supply of nourishment, 

 feedings must be frequent. The chicks can not store up at 

 one feeding large quantities for future needs. 



Moreover, the chicks should be kept hungry, for hunger 

 makes them active. Digestive organs crowded with feed 

 will soon become impaired so that diarrhoea and death will 

 result. It is a good plan to feed small amounts at short 

 intervals, giving only enough to make it certain that the 

 chicks will be hungry before the next feeding, and they should 

 be made to clean up all of the feed given before they are fed 

 again. They must be kept busy, and this is accomplished 

 by feeding them in the litter, by limiting the amount given, 

 and by making them hunt for their feed. Exercise is the best 



