11 



COMMENTS AND SUGGESTIONS 



Annual Testing of All Birds on the Premises: This past year 39 flocks were 

 classified with an intermittent testing history, which means that the flocks are 

 not tested annually. Flocks in this category usually reveal a higher percentage 

 of positive tests than flocks which are tested annually. Breeding flocks should 

 be tested annually in order to establish sound breeding stock. 



Furthermore, 25 flocks, representing 19,008 birds or 1.7 percent of the total 

 birds tested, were only partially tested. While the total number of birds in par- 

 tially tested flocks may be small, it is hoped that as the testing program progresses 

 all flock owners will see the wisdom of having their entire flocks tested. It should 

 be emphasized that when only part of the flock is tested, the flock owner is unable 

 to determine the true pullorum status of all birds on the premises. 



Annual testing of all birds on the premises, therefore, cannot be too strongly 

 advocated or emphasized if pullorum-tree flocks are to be established and main- 

 tained. 



Early Testing: During the past year market outlets have required that hatch- 

 ing eggs or chicks from untested birds cannot be sold. This requirement has 

 created a new situation in the pullorum testing work in that more birds will be 

 tested during the summer months. Birds over five months of age are eligible 

 for the test. This early testing means more split-flock testing. Poultrymen are 

 cautioned about the dangers of permitting untested birds to escape their atten- 

 tion which may readily happen through split-flock testing. All unhanded birds 

 should be either tested or removed from the flock. 



Testing accommodations at the laboratory are limited. Flock owners who can 

 have their birds tested during the summer and early fall months are advised to 

 do so. This will help to relieve the congestion during the months when the 

 demands are greatest. 



Flock owners can further cooperate by filing their applications early so that 

 the laboratory can make preparations regarding the testing work. Application 

 cards are serviced in the order in which they are received unless circumstances 

 suggest otherwise. In order to service applications money must be on deposit 

 with the Treasurer of the University of Massachusetts. As a rule, the flock 

 owner should have this money on deposit at least two weeks before the date of 

 the test. This amount of time is necessary tor economical routing of the blood 

 collectors. After flock owners have determined the approximate testing date 

 for their flocks, it would be advisable to send the money to the Treasurer of the 

 University of Massachusetts so that the laboratory will not have to send a special 

 request tor money. When deposits have been made some time in advance, the 

 flock owner often benefits by having his flock tested at an earlier date than ex- 

 pected because occasionally there are postponements w^hich enable the laboratory 

 to schedule other flocks on short notice. 



Publication of this Document Approved by Commission on Administration and Finance 

 3U 



