8 POULTRY SECRETS REVEALED. 



at a very reasonable price. Such birds of course have not been culled 

 and the beginner should have an experienced breeder look them over 

 when they have reached the age of six months and select those that 

 are fit to retain. The remainder should be marketed at once. 



The most common method is to start with eggs. This Is satisfactory 

 provided certain precautions are taken. The first is to know that the 

 eggs are from thoroughly matured stock. While some varieties 

 mature earlier than others, yet as a rule it is unwise to breed from 

 any bird under one year of age. Pullet eggs are usually smaller, 

 weaker and less fertile than those laid by hens. Another precaution 

 is against ordering eggs too early. In the mad rush for early hatched 

 chicks, the beginner takes a long chance if he purchases eggs laid 

 before the first of April. The big breeders, it is true, are able to get 

 fertile eggs sometimes in February and frequently in March. Never- 

 theless April and May are the best hatching months. And June is 

 better than February. 



When buying eggs for hatching, the greatest danger lies in the 

 handling they receive en route. Distance is not objectionable. In 

 sending out eggs for hatching from our test pens we have had excel- 

 lent returns all the way from Maine to California. Careful packing 

 has had much to do with this; careful handling, over direct lines of 

 communication, has had m.ore. One should buy then, whenever possi- 

 ble, from a breeder who can ship by a single express line so that no 

 transfer to another company will be necessary. Eggs carry best when 

 packed in strong baskets and safely cushioned on hay or excelsior; 

 and the buyer should insist that his eggs should be packed in that 

 manner. 



Generally speaking, the breeder should not be blamed if eggs fail 

 to hatch. The buyer should know, and admit the fact, that in buying 

 eggs for hatching he takes a chance. But the chance, however, is 



