S4 



MISC. PUBLICATION 194, U. S. DEPT. OF AGRICULTURE 



Green feed must be tender and low in crude fiber in order to be 

 palatable and of much use to poultry (figs. 26 and 27). 



In addition to the nutrients obtained from ranging on pasture, 

 poultry benefit also from the sunshine and exercise. However, in the 

 case of birds producing eggs for market, moderation in the use of 

 green feed, especially legumes, is advisable since too much may cause 

 darker yolks than some markets like. A clean range also aids in 

 keeping the birds free from disease and parasites. 



On the average farm, where no special provision is made for grazing 

 poultry and they range at large, their requirements for such feed are 



Figure 25.— Geese on pasture. 



This class of poultry is able to subsist entirely on grass, though requir- 

 ing some grain for fattening. 



usually well supplied in the spring and part of the summer. To obtain 

 good growth over a longer period, the soil should be fertile and well 

 supplied with moisture, and plants suitable for feeding poultry should 

 be selected. 



For fall, winter, and spring, Italian ryegrass is very satisfactory. 

 It will stand cold weather well and will make some growth when the 

 temperature is above freezing. The small grains may be used, too, 

 but they become hard and fibrous too early in the spring. In the 

 South crimson clover seeded with the rye adds desirable variety. 

 Rape also may be used for ^\dnter grazing in the South. A quick, 

 luxuriant growth is necessary for tender, palatable forage. 



For summer grazing, particularly in regions where Jidy, August, 

 and September are hot and dry, alfalfa is one of the most satisfactory 

 crops. It is also suitable for general spring and fall use as it with- 

 stands frosts. Hard freezes kill the tender growth. Cowpeas or soy- 



