Squabs 301 



ness, since success depends on the many minor 

 things which cannot be neglected. Squab-rearing 

 may be made very profitable if "eternal vigilance," 

 the price of success, be given. 



Most of the squabs that are now sold in the 

 markets of the large cities average from one-half 

 pound to three-quarters of a pound each, while the 

 choicest birds may weigh nearly twice as much.* 

 Many experienced squab-raisers prefer a cross of 

 Runts and Homers for fine birds. The mother should 

 be a Homer, as these birds are better breeders and 

 better mothers than the Runts. 



The health of pigeons should receive close atten- 

 tion. They should be given an opportunity to 

 bathe, and such conditions should be provided as 

 will produce the strongest and most vigorous squabs. 

 Light-colored squabs sell best on the market. 



A variety of grains is usually fed. Cracked 

 corn, wheat, hulled oats, millet, hemp, and other 

 small seeds are much used. Cracked corn is a 

 favorite food. Pigeons are particularly fond of salt. 

 Many pigeon raisers keep a supply of salt acces- 

 sible to the birds at all times. As the old birds 

 feed the squabs, it is essential that the parents be 

 well fed. A clean sanded floor is an excellent place 

 for feeding the old birds. 



*"Pocket Money Poultry," Norys, p. 142. 



