FEEDING FOR EGG PRODUCTION 



255 



factor in rations for egg production. Protein from an 

 animal source is far superior to that from a vegetable, 

 which never takes the place of animal protein. For profitable 

 egg production, birds should receive a ration which contains 

 not less than 10, or more than 25 per cent of meat scrap. 



Need of Plenty of Water. Fresh, clean water should 

 always be before the birds (Fig. 141), and must be supple- 

 mented by good, succulent feed, such as cabbage, sprouted 

 oats, or mangel beets. Dry alfalfa and clover are not sue- 



Fio. 141. A small brook runs through the corner of this poultry yard, making 

 an abundant supply of fresh water available even on the hottest days, and this 

 without any labor on the part of the one attending the birds. 



culent. A large amount of water is necessary owing to the 

 high water content demanded by both the bird's body and 

 the egg (Fig. 142). 



Birds' Relish for Grain. Birds naturally love grain and 

 seeds. In their wild state, much of their feed consists of 

 weeds and wild herbs. Their digestive system is so con- 

 structed as to consume and digest large amounts of hard 

 grain and seeds. In their rations the grain supplied should 

 form one-half to two-thirds of the total bulk of feed, the 

 balance being dry mash. 



