FEEDING AND FEEDS 



125 



to grind the food; the other is that grit itself is a 

 food. It is not necessary to argue on this point, 

 but it is necessary to supply the grit. Fowls at 

 liberty usually pick up enough grit except where 

 the land is deficient in sand and gravel. When con- 

 fined they must have a liberal supply. When gravel 

 is close by the grit ques- 

 tion is easily answered. 

 Plenty of sharp sand for 

 the hens to scratch in is 

 all that is necessary. 

 Where gravel is scarce 

 grit must be purchased. 

 It is very cheap. Besides 

 ordinary grit, it is desir- 

 able to supply other mate- 

 rial for forming the egg 

 shells. Grain does not con- 

 tain sufficient lime for 

 great egg layers. Oyster 

 and other sea shells are 

 largely used for this pur- 

 pose, since they are very 

 readily dissolved in the 

 gizzard. 



other shell material in the 

 ration often leads to the egg-eating habit among 

 hens, because soft-shelled eggs are laid and broken 

 in the nest. 



Charcoal is believed to be useful as a bowel 

 regulator. Most successful poultrymen keep it 

 constantly before the hens. Salt in moderation aids 

 digestion. An ounce or two daily is sufficient for 

 ICO hens. Pepper, which acts as a stimulant, should 

 be fed sparingly. Vigorous hens do not need it. 



GRIT OR SHELL HOPPEK. 

 T „„i, „c i:™« ^,. Hole In floor is for dust to 



Lack of lime or ^rop through. 



