238 SUMMER MANAGEMENT. 



frequently refilled, and that they get as much 

 green food as possible. In each yard there 

 should be a low shed erected, under which they 

 can shelter themselves and take their dust bath. 

 Moulting has begun, and as this is a drain on 

 the constitution of birds closely confined, high 

 feeding is necessary. They have good appetites 

 during this period, and, if properly attended to, 

 and nourishing food freely administered to supply 

 the waste, their poor denuded bodies will soon be 

 again covered with smooth, firm plumage, which 

 is the surest indication of good health in poultry. 

 Old mortar or lime rubbish should be scattered 

 over the yards, or placed in a heap in a corner. 

 Fowls are very fond of it, and it is conducive to 

 their health. A little citrate of iron may be 

 given, dissolved in ale, and added to the soft food ; 

 and at all times give the fowls a few burnt oyster 

 shells. In April it is well to lay in a store, and 

 burn them when required. This,, if properly 

 done, calcines the shell, when it can be easily 

 broken with the fingers. Hens frequently eat 

 their eggs ; if of little value, kill the offender at 

 once, for she may infect the others ; but I have 



