Breeding and Management. 79 



and older birds will get all the nourishment from the mother, 

 and ultimately may trample the younger and weaker birds 

 to death. 



DISTINGUISHING MARKS. If the young ones transferred 

 should be of the same variety as those they are placed be- 

 side, and so young as riot to be distinguishable, then it will 

 be necessary to put a mark upon them whereby they can 

 be recognised such, for instance, as tying a piece of coloured 

 silk loosely, but in such a manner as to prevent its coming 

 off, round one of their legs, so that it can be readily removed 

 when the birds are feathered. 



A SOLITARY NESTLING. One young bird is more difficult 

 for a hen to rear than a nestful; at the same time, I prefer 

 giving her an opportunity of doing so, otherwise she might 

 be spoilt for the rest of the season. If, however, it is seen 

 that there is but a meagre chance of its being brought up, 

 and there are other reliable hens with broods about the same 

 age, it will be better to transfer it to one of those than allow 

 it to die. 



WEANING YOUNG BIRDS. After the young birds are re- 

 moved from their parents, and they are able to feed them- 

 selves, continue to give them egg and bread and green food 

 until they are at least six or seven weeks old, or even longer 

 as too sudden a change of food is very frequently attended 

 with bad results, and engenders ailments which sometimes 

 prove fatal ; but I do not mean that the full allowances should 

 be given after they attain the age of six weeks, as they can 

 crack seed pretty well before this time. Gradually leave off 

 giving so much egg. After they attain this age, I generally 

 give them the leavings of the other birds, provided they are 

 fresh and wholesome; and this, especially if it has stood 

 over-night and gets rather dry, weans them from it better than 

 anything, and is not attended with bad results. 



LIME AND SAND. Fresh water and perfect cleanliness, 

 as well as fresh air and a liberal supply of sand, or fine 



