FEEDING EQUIPMENT 207 
cost per bird during the year. The labor item is the second 
greatest item in the cost of production,—feed being first. 
Feed Wagons.—On large plants where the attendant makes 
his rounds and must cover considerable distance, it is found very 
feasible to do the feeding from a wagon constructed for the purpose 
(Fig. 119). This wagon may contain egg cases for the collection 
of eggs, and a box or receptacle for the removal of droppings when 
the houses are cleaned. Such a wagon is also useful for the trans- 
portation of young stock to and from the range. 
Compounding Rations.—The problem of the composition, mix- 
ing, and supplying the ration for poultry of all classes and for all 
Fie. 119.—The poultry feed wagon is a great labor saver in caring for poultry on the 
range. (Photo from Cornell University.) 
processes is one of the most important considerations in the practical 
handling of birds. Success requires close association with the birds. 
In compounding the ration or daily diet for a laying hen, 
several factors should be carefully considered: Breed, age of birds, 
housing condition, season, and range. The prices of feed and the 
amount of labor must be taken into account. Other points are 
discussed under the headings that follow. 
Sufficient Nutrients.—The first requisite in a successful ration 
is that it contains a sufficient amount of feed adapted to the pur- 
pose desired. The nourishing parts of feed are called “ nutrients ”’; 
these are of several kinds: Protein, carbohydrates, and fat. The 
nutrients in a feed may be expressed either in the amount required 
per bird or the amount required per 100 pounds in live weight. 
Owing to the great variation in the weight of the individuals, it 
