Q2 The Hen's Habitation. 



eight inches deep, which it was something of a job to dig up 

 and carry out. 



The condition of the hens as to health and egg-production dur- 

 ing the fall and forepart of winter was quite satisfactory, with 

 a flattering prospect for the entire winter. This condition 

 rapidly fell off, however, as the floor grew damp, and along 

 toward spring, when they should have been laying nearly at 

 their best, I was getting few eggs and there were many sick 

 and ailing hens, and, in fact, I lost a number. 



The conclusion that I drew from this experience was, that 

 while an earth floor which could not conveniently be changed 

 at least two or three times during the winter might answer 

 for a small flock, in a house large enough to allow the dry 

 earth of the floor to absorb all of the moisture from the drop- 

 pings without becoming damp and disagreeable until spring 

 came with its conveniences. for changing it, I should have to 

 use a solid floor with absorbents to cover it, that could be 

 changed often to enable me to keep in proper condition so large 

 a number in so small a space. 



It seemed to me that grout or concrete would be the right 

 thing; but as I found that I could put in a board floor some- 

 what cheaper, I concluded to use it. I bought a lot of cheap 

 but sound hemlock and laid the floor, being careful to join the 

 edges as closely as possible without planing or matching. 

 This I kept well littered with a layer of dry earth and cut 

 straw which was changed as often as needed, with the best 

 results, all through the next winter, which was severe, and 

 the hens were closely confined all of the time. So well was I 

 pleased with this floor and the method of keeping the house 

 dry and clean through the winter that I have not looked for a 

 better. 



I knov of no real objection to grout or concrete for the pur. 

 pose. Some, however, have raised the objection that a floor 

 of that kind is always cold and disagreeable to the touch and 

 consequently uncomfortable for the fowls confined upon it. 

 Without having had any experience with it, I am strongly of 



