288 PRINCIPLES OF FARM PRACTICE 



Incubation. Whether natural or artificial means of 

 hatching are employed the object is the same to secure a 

 high percentage of vigorous chicks. The first essential is to 

 use eggs of strong hatching qualities, that is, eggs produced 

 by active, vigorous, carefully- tended breeding stock. Other 

 essentials are correct means for hatching, correct methods of 

 operation, and favorable conditions. 



The choice between natural and artificial means of hatch- 

 ing depends upon several factors such as personal preference, 

 equipment, and size of the flock. In some respects the natural 

 method is superior it is nature's method. With a flock of 

 fifty or less this method is more economical than hatching by 

 means of an incubator. The chief disadvantages are lack 

 of control and the uncertainty of having an adequate number 

 of sitting hens when wanted, especially if a large, early hatch 

 is desired. The chief advantages of the artificial method are 

 control as to time of hatching, ability to secure uniform 

 conditions favorable for hatching, and for large flocks, econ- 

 omy. The chief disadvantage is the care and attention neces- 

 sary for success. Where only a small number of chicks is 

 wanted it is sometimes desirable to buy the young chicks 

 from a commercial hatchery. 



Natural incubation. When applying to natural incubation 

 the essentials mentioned in a previous paragraph they should 

 include choice of the sitting hen, nesting place, and surround- 

 ing conditions. 



The sitter should be chosen from general-purpose breeds 

 such as Plymouth Rocks. Heavy breeds such as Cochins 

 are too clumsy, and light breeds such as Leghorns are too 

 unreliable. 



The nesting site should be a place where the sitting hen 

 will not be disturbed and one which will be easily accessible 



