6i 



It is the writer's preference to feed the mash in 

 Method of Hand- the morning and it should be given in such 

 ling these Feeds, quantity as the fowls will completely consume 

 within from about 20 to 30 minutes. At the 

 time of mixing the mash is usually slightly salted. At noon about 

 one half the total quantity of dry grain- is fed. The writer now 

 prefers to feed cut clover when that is used at the same time. This 

 is prepared for use by dampening slightly with hot water and leaving 

 in a covered vessel for a few hours. The other half of the grain is 

 fed about an hour before sunset. The amount of grain furnished by 

 these combinations is expected to be sufficient so that there is likely 

 always to be some scattered grain in the litter. The fowls if fed 

 properly under these conditions begin scratching for grain within a 

 short time after receiving the morning mash. Artificial grit, oyster 

 shells and dry cracked bone should be kept before the fowls all the 

 time and a supply of charcoal in granular form may also be useful 

 as a corrective. Pure water is of course supplied in abundance. 



In addition to the foods furnished by these combinations, it will 

 be wise to supply vegetable food in moderate quantity. Loose heads 

 of cabbage, mangolds, or table beets which are too coarse for market 

 are suitable. The condition of the fowls, however, must be closely 

 observed as all these vegetables are laxative and if too freely given 

 will cause diarrhea. In place of such vegetables it is good practice 

 during the summer season to feed fine grass or clover or Dwarf 

 Essex rape which is highly relished. Lawn clippings are also good. 

 Care must be taken in feeding rape as in the case of cabbages and 

 mangolds and for the same reason.* It should be the object in 

 feeding a fiock of laying hens to supply all the food in considerable 

 variety which they will consume with good appetite. At the first 

 evidence that the appetite is flagging, the quantity of food should be 

 reduced. 



The results obtained in the Maine Experiment Station in feeding 

 for eggs have certainly been highly satisfactory and the writer is glad 

 to present a description of the method of feeding now followed*. 

 There is abundant evidence to show that'very satisfactory egg yields 

 can be obtained by the dry system of feeding. The method certainly 

 reduces the labor of caring for the fowls greatly. There is evidence 



* In the Maine station alfalfa and clover are found the most satisfactory green feeds for 

 summer. The free use of rape is believed to make the yolks of the eggs greenish when 

 boiled. 



* Maine Experiment Station Bulletin 144. 



