FOWLS. 177 



The moulting period succeeds to the labors of prolific lay- 

 ing and incubation. It lasts from one to three months, during 

 which time the female generally ceases to lay, or does so 

 rarely, and seems languid and depressed. 



A hen is old at four years, and in her fifth year should 

 make way for younger birds. A cock should never exceed 

 three years ; if well fed, and of good breed, he matures at 

 three months. 



To have a desirable breed of fowls, the finest-formed hen 

 should be chosen (or a thoroughly matured pullet) for breed- 

 ing purposes, and the cock changed yearly, so as to avoid 

 what is called " in and in " breeding. If pullets are used, 

 they should be well matured ; otherwise the breed will be 

 small, tender, and consequently difficult to raise. 



Fowls, when confined, should have a building placed above 

 ground, that may be easily ventilated. Their floor should 

 be covered with wood ,or coal ashes, and the interior of their 

 building should be white-washed two or three times every 

 year, and cleaned once a week. Avoid too much glass, 

 which gives an unnatural heat, and creates distempers. 

 Keep them dry, supply them with fresh water daily, and a 

 variety in their food. When cooped and unable to procure 

 insects, supply them with animal food, and feed them three 

 times a day. A little cayenne-pepper mixed with Indian- 

 meal dough may be given to them occasionally during the 

 winter season. Gravel should be within thei ? r reach, and 

 oyster-shells, or similar substances, pounded fine, should be 

 scattered about the coop. 



In selecting eggs for hatching, take those of medium .size, 

 that you believe have been rendered productive ; the large 

 egg of corresponding size at both ends, contains double yolks, 

 which, instead of bringing twin chickens, produce morisjrosi- 

 ties. It is said that the position of the air-cell, discovered 

 by holding the egg between the light of a candle and your 



