50 a EXPERIMENT STATION. [Jan. 



measures might be devised by which the effect of the tempera- 

 ture could be offset. 



A marked improvement in the stamina and vigor of the flock 

 has been noted. Probably less than 5 per cent, of the pullets 

 have been thrown out this fall because of lack of vitality. 



The data secured this season on hatchability illustrate the 

 desirability of extending such records over long periods of time. 

 In 1914 the average hatchability of hens, compared with their 

 pullet records, showed a marked decrease, nearly all individuals 

 falling below the previous records. In 1915 about equal num- 

 bers showed an improvement and a falling off. Apparently the 

 weather conditions exert considerable influence on the hatching 

 quality of eggs. It seems probable that temperature is the 

 determining factor, but until methods of controlling tempera- 

 ture and other environmental factors are available, this point 

 cannot be settled. 



A great deal of time has been devoted to artificial brooding. 

 A number of brooders, various methods of brooding, feeding and 

 management have been tried out. Two results of some im- 

 portance have been secured. First, in general, chicks do better 

 on ground previously unoccupied by poultry than on ground 

 that has been used even for a short time. A very high rate of 

 growth was attained in several lots reared on new land. Second, 

 chicks from certain i|idividuals live and grow much better than 

 from others, just as eggs from some hens hatch much better 

 than those from others. 



Equipment. 

 Sixteen brooding houses 6 by 6 feet have been added to the 

 equipment. These have proven extremely satisfactory for use 

 with the new portable hovers. A thermograph has also been 

 added, which is being used in various places. 



