14 THE PRACTICAL POULTRY KEEPER. 



they are better laid down in grass, which, if well rooted 

 first, will bear small fowls upon it for several hours each 

 day, but should be renewed in the spring by sowing when 

 needed. Between the runs the divisions should be boarded 

 up a couple of feet high to prevent fighting or restlessness. 

 The height of the fence depends on the breed chosen. 

 Cochins or Brahmas are easily retained within bounds by 

 netting a yard high ; for moderate-sized fowls six feet will 

 do ; whilst to confine Game, Hamburghs, or Bantams, a 

 fence eight or nine feet will be found necessary. The 

 netting should be simply stretched from post to post, 

 without a rail at the top, as the inmates are then far less 

 likely to attempt flying over. The posts may be five to six 

 feet apart, \\ inch square, pointed, and driven into the 

 ground. We do not like to see fowls with their outer wings 

 cut. If they are never wanted for exhibition, it is better 

 to open one wing, and cut only the first or flight feathers, 

 usually ten in number. This will effectually prevent the bird 

 from flying, and as the primary quills are always tucked 

 under the others when not in use, there is no external sign 

 of the operation. But sufficient fence is the proper plan. 



The compartment for the sitting hen may be boarded 

 in at the front or not ; we prefer it open. Her run may 

 also be covered over or not, at pleasure, but it is better 

 covered. 



Before entering upon accommodation for large numbers 

 of fowls, it may be well to consider more especially the 

 subject of open runs of different kinds and sizes. In regard 

 to the space absolutely necessary, poultry may be kept 

 almost anywhere by bearing in mind the one important 

 point, that the smaller the space in which they are confined, 

 the greater and more constant attention must be bestowed 

 upon the cleanliness of their domain. They decline rapidly 

 in health and produce if kept on foul ground. If daily 



