256 THE SMALL COUNTRY PLACE 



ing. Our domestic pigeon breeds very rapidly and from 

 a single pair one may in a year or two produce a large 

 flock. They occupy but a small space, being generally 

 kept in lofts (Fig. 87) or other out-of-the-way places, 

 or in small houses like the colony houses for hens, with a 

 flying yard attached. Close attention must be given 

 them during their nesting season, their quarters must be 

 kept neat and clean, fresh food and water must be 

 supplied. The young birds are killed for market about 

 the time they begin to fly and are sold undressed, bring- 

 ing from 25 to 50 cents per pair while fancy birds for 

 breeding purposes sometimes sell for as many dollars. 



For further details as to poultry and its care the 

 reader is referred to the Reports of the Department of 

 Agriculture at Washington and those of the State Ex- 

 periment Stations, notably those of Maine, Massachu- 

 setts, and Rhode Island. 



