370 



CARE OF THE GROWING STOCK 



to which they can be put. If they are kept for a longer time, 

 they eat a large amount of feed for which no return is realized. 



Select the physically strong chicks, and maintain their high 

 vitality throughout the growing period. They are to be matured 

 into profitable layers and breeders at the end of the summer. 



FIG. 171. Rearing chicks under intensive conditions on open range. A, Corn is useful 

 to provide shade while the trees are small. B, An orchard of large trees su'pplies plenty of 

 shade. The birds check the ravages of insects. 



The maintenance of their vigor is essentially within the control 

 of the poultryman. 



Environmental conditions can be conveniently grouped for dis- 

 cussion under five heads: (1) Free range; (2) green feed; (3) 

 shade; (4) housing; (5) management. 



Free Range. The best growth and the most vigorous chicks 

 can only be realized by giving the growing birds an abundance of 

 free range (Figs. 170 and 171). Overcrowding, both as to area of 



