POULTRY 



421 



559. Farm poultry. The number of pure-bred chickens is 

 increasing, because farmers are discovering that they can feed 

 a uniform flock very much more profitably than one that con- 

 tains several types of birds (Fig. 215). Uniformity is necessary, 

 too, for the successful marketing of poultry products. Uniform 

 stock, however, will not yield greater profits than mongrel stock 

 unless it receives intelligent care. Like other stock, it must be 



FIG. 214. Rhode Island Red chickens 



well housed and skillfully fed, and attention must be given to 

 rearing the young. 



560. The essentials of a good poultry house. There are four 

 essentials to a successful poultry house dryness, good venti- 

 lation without drafts, sunlight, and plenty of room (Figs. 216 

 and 217). 



Dryness is essential because chickens eliminate proportion- 

 ally more moisture through the breathing apparatus than do 

 other farm animals ; also, the pasty excreta from the body 

 evaporate moisture into the air. Dry air more readily removes 

 surplus moisture. Good ventilation is essential, since it aids in 

 keeping the house dry by carrying off excessive moisture and 



