999 QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS, 101 



QUESTION What is the object in caponizing? 

 ANSWER The birds grow larger, the flesh is remarkably tender 

 and wonderfully improved in flavor. 



QUESTION What age is best for caponizing? 

 ANSWER About three months. 



QUESTION What are the best breeds for caponizing? 

 ANSWER The medium-sized ones, such as Plymouth Rocks and 

 Wyandottes. 



QUESTION What is the percentage of loss by death when 

 caponizing when the operator is an expert? 

 ANSWER Not more than five per cent. 



QUESTION What does a good set of caponizing instruments 

 cost? 



ANSWER About $2.50. 



QUESTION At what age are capons ready for market? 

 ANSWER From 10 to 12 months. 



QUESTION What causes hens to lay their eggs while on the 

 perches at night? 



ANSWER It may happen naturally occasionally, but it is gen- 

 erally an indication of weak egg organs. 



QUESTION How many cockerels should be kept with 20x3 hens 

 on free range? 



ANSWER About ten male birds would be right under the con- 

 ditions mentioned. 



QUESTION What kind of drinking fountains are best? 

 ANSWER Earthenware. They should be thoroughly cleaned 

 and scalded often. 



QUESTION Is it advisable for a beginner to commence with 

 common stock? 



ANSWER It is not best for one to begin with scrub or mongrel 

 fowls, although it is not necessary to have the very highest grade 

 of standard bred stock. Culls from some good flock will answer 

 the purpose. 



QUESTION What is the best method of preventing lice? 



ANSWER Keep the house and all interior fixtures such as roosts, 

 nests, etc., scrupulously clean, and use a good lice powder on the 

 fowls regularly. 



