CHAPTER XI 



NATURAL INCUBATION 



INCUBATING eggs in the natural way requires some 

 study on the part of the amateur poultry raiser. 

 The first essential to success is the selection of a 

 reliable brood hen and the construction and loca- 

 tion of a suitable nest. Every "clucky" hen is not 

 always to be depended upon, and therefore care 

 should be exercised in making the selection. 



Nonsetting varieties of fowls such as Leghorns, 

 Minorcas, etc., may, when in too fatty condition, 

 show signs of being clucky, but they cannot be 

 depended upon to carry the work of incubation to 

 a successful conclusion. Select a hen from a breed 

 which is known to be a good broody variety, such 

 as the Rhode Island Reds, Plymouth Rocks, Wyan- 

 dottes, Orpingtons, etc. Do not select the heavy, 

 feather legged varieties, such as the Cochins or 

 Brahmas. They are as a rule too clumsy and very 

 apt to break some of the eggs or trample on the 

 chicks when hatched. 



The next important detail connected with this 

 work is the construction of a suitable nesting box, 

 not necessarily ornamental, but one which will 

 assist the hen in her endeavors to rear a family 

 of healthy chicks. Choose a box which is roomy 



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