POULTRY-HOUSES. 239 



described in the former case. Some French writers, however, 

 and Schreger amongst the first, state that in the case of pullets 

 or hens the operation is unnecessary, it being only required to 

 make a small incision just above the vent, on a little eminence 

 that will be perceived in that place. ; then, by repeated press- 

 ure, you cause the protrusion of the uterus a little whitish 

 body ; this is cut away, the wound heals of itself, and nothing 

 further is required. 



Capons are fattened precisely in the same manner as chick- 

 ens, by keeping them cooped up in a quiet, dark place, and 

 cramming them, or otherwise feeding them abundantly. They 

 often attain a great size, some having been known to weigh ten 

 or twelve pounds. They come to their full growth in about 

 two years, but require but a week or two of close keeping before 

 being brought to market. 



CHAPTER XV. 



POULTRY-HOUSES. 



IN order to the profitable keeping of fowls, it is indispensable 

 that they should be properly lodged, and that such conveniences 

 should be provided for them as will secure their comfort and 

 health. Every collection of poultry requires some place to be 

 provided for them, to secure these advantages. Often they are 

 left to take care of themselves, and roaming at large over the 

 farm, or about a smaller premises, they become at last burden- 

 some to themselves, unprofitable to the proprietor, and a nui- 

 sance to the neighborhood. A certain degree of confinement is 

 therefore necessary for fowls. Close confinement, however, 

 will, in a degree, prevent them from laying, and destroy their 



