PROPER MANAGEMENT 267 



of production of eggs for breeding purposes, the actual laying 

 season for the eggs which are selected is very short, and during 

 the more natural season of heavy production. 



The exact profit which will be realized depends on two factors, 

 cost and amount of production. All the necessary factors of 

 environment and feed should be provided at a minimum cost 

 without decreasing the efficiency, keeping in mind that larger pro- 

 duction means a greater amount of products for sale. The aim 

 is to get the maximum production at the minimum cost. If records 

 are carefully and regularly kept, there will be found a limit beyond 

 which increased expenditure in feed and labor is not compensated 



FIG. 135. White Leghorns. There is every sign of high vitality. (Photo by Rancocas 



Poultry Farm.) 



for by an increased yield. The relation between cost and amount 

 of production should invariably be studied. 



Proper management for successful egg production may be 

 briefly summarized under the four headings: (1) Selection of 

 stock; (2) suitable environment; (3) proper feeding at all seasons; 

 (4) care in marketing. These may be considered the four corner- 

 stones upon which is built the successful management of laying 

 stock, all other conditions being secondary. 



Selection of Stock. The best way to start is to build up the 

 home flock with winter egg production as the main object. The 

 breed to be selected depends upon market requirements and upon 

 the size and character of the farm. Large, extensive plants will 

 yield large amounts of eggs which must be shipped to special 

 markets at some distance. The poultryman should first determine 



