PRACTICAL FEEDING OF POULTRY 



given as much range and exercise as possible. The secur- 

 ing of eggs which are fertile and which will produce 

 strong livable chicks is more essential in the handling of 

 breeding stock than is the actual number of eggs received 

 during the breeding season. Breeding stock to give the 

 best results needs to be in good condition but not fat and 

 preferably slightly thin rather than overfat. This condi- 

 tion is secured by feeding the birds moderately but not 

 over-feeding; by making the birds eat plenty of mash, 

 which is done by feeding only a very limited amount of 

 scratch grains; by making the birds exercise and by 

 furnishing plenty of green feed, preferably on a free or 

 large range. 



Stock for breeding should not be forced for egg pro- 

 duction during the breeding season, but can be fed heavi- 

 ly without injurious results until about two months prior 

 to the time that the eggs are to be saved for hatching. 

 Forcing egg production by the use of stimulating drugs 

 should never be done with breeding stock under any con- 

 ditions and it is very doubtful if it pays to use such feeds 

 for any kind of poultry. Any forcing method which 

 tends to especially stimulate egg production, such as the 

 use of electric lights, should be discontinued at least two 

 months previous to the breeding season. If the stock 

 is given good breeding conditions two months before 

 eggs are to be saved for hatching, good results will 

 be secured. The male birds should be well taken care 

 of throughout the year and always given as much range 

 as possible. 



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