268 MANAGEMENT OF LAYING STOCK 



the color of egg (white or brown) demanded by that particular 

 market, and then aim to produce that for which the highest price 

 is paid. The stock selected should be constitutionally vigorous, 

 and well bred for several preceding generations. If possible, they 

 should be from a heavy producing strain, as the offspring of such 

 are much more apt to be good producers (Figs. 135 and 136). 



Suitable Environment. The laying stock, if economical pro- 

 duction is to be assured, should be given congenial surroundings 

 and an environment conducive to good health, hence, to increased 



FIG. 136. Ideal individuals of the single-comb White Leghorn breed unsurpassed 

 as producers of large, white eggs, for commercial purposes. (Photo by International Cor- 

 respondence School.) 



egg production. Environment depends upon the size and style 

 of house and the care of house and yards. Good care is important 

 in the management of laying flocks. 



Proper feeding of laying birds at different seasons should be 

 studied, and proper changes made to meet the changing conditions 

 of season, weather, and age of the birds. The cost of feed should 

 be kept as low as possible, and yet it must supply the nutrients 

 required and in the forms most conducive to health and production. 



Care in Marketing. Profit from good production does not 

 depend alone upon a large yield of eggs; but, if the best prices 

 and profits are to be realized, the eggs must be marketed in a 

 manner, and at markets, which will insure the highest revenue. 



