148 THE HOME POULTRY BOOK 
Be sure that the hen is dusted with lice powder 
several times while she is sitting, the last time just 
before the chicks hatch. 
Spade up the poultry yard as soon as the ground 
can be worked. If it has been neglected, scrape 
up and remove an inch or more of the surface dirt, 
which is sure to be very foul. 
The strongest chicks will come from hens which 
have not been forced hard for winter eggs. Se- 
lecting hatching eggs from those laid by overworked 
pullets is not a wise plan. 
Duck eggs usually run fertile this month and 
this is early enough for the amateur to set them, 
especially those laid by Indian Runners. 
Study the brooder catalogues. Outdoor brooders 
will be satisfactory for chicks hatched as late as 
March. Small colony houses with a good hover 
set in each give good results. After the need for 
heat has passed, the hover may be removed and 
the chicks allowed to use the house for a coop. 
APRIL 
Chicks of the smaller breeds hatched this month 
will mature in time to begin laying in the Fall. 
