THE NOVICE 13 



Therefore, with these and many similar in- 

 stances in my mind, I would suggest to the 

 novice that if he wishes to build a successful 

 pigeon plant he should strictly adhere to eight 

 fundamental rules: 



1. Select a good neighborhood — ^know that 

 the neighbors are honest — and that there is a 

 plentiful supply of water. 



2. The pigeon houses and pens must face the 

 south — ^pigeons love sunshine and running 

 water. 



3. The pigeon raiser should have a deed to 

 his place, as pigeons cannot be moved without 

 heavy loss. 



4. Wholesale grain dealers should be within 

 easy reach, for grain must be bought by tons. 

 And it is also necessary to be within the pre- 

 cincts of express delivery. 



5. There must be quick transportation to 

 market — within, at least, a few hours, unless 

 the birds are to be dressed and refrigerated. 



6. The pigeon houses and nests must be large 

 and roomy and the latter numerous, but the fly- 

 pens should be small. 



7. The feed must be varied — with some of 

 the cheapest kind before the birds all the time. 



8. In buying stock, buy only youngsters. Se- 

 lect the breed that the prospective market de- 



