CHAPTER VI 



NESTING CONTRIVANCES 



A good nest is both safe and attractive. It should 

 be large enough so that two hens at the same time will 

 not break eggs. It should be low at one side so that 

 hens need not jump down upon the eggs. It should 

 have a cover for seclusion and to keep idle fowls from 

 roosting on the edge. The opening should face away 

 from the light, as darkness discourages egg-eating and 

 other forms of interference on the part of mischief 

 makers. For similar reasons the box should be about 

 two and one-half feet above the floor. An alighting 

 board in front of the entrance will afford the layer a 

 chance to enter carefully, as her instinct teaches. The 

 nest filling should be renewed twice a year, and also 

 whenever used several weeks by a sitter. The filling 

 should be abundant enough to prevent breakage and 

 should be free from coarse or thorny material. The 

 presence of a nest egg will usually prevent scratching, 

 but if very young birds are there, they may pull the hay 

 about somewhat. In such cases a filling of shavings or 

 excelsior may be used, and care should be taken not 

 to drop grain into the nests. Nests should be numer- 

 ous and all about alike, so that none will be over- 

 crowded. If raised well above the floor the space they 

 occupy will not be missed. Every box should be ar- 

 ranged for easy and quick removal when desired. 



A very simple nest and easily made, is de- 

 scribed by A. B. Hewitt, who writes: "I make them 

 of old soap, candle or starch boxes. Take the box 



