CHAPTER IX 



MATURING THE STOCK 



It is a common saying that the early layer is the payer. 



Like many another "saying" this is true or not, according to cir- 

 cumstances. 



A pullet that begins laying too early is likely to "soldier" during 

 the winter — "eating her head off" when eggs are highest. 



Early hatches are necessary for market birds; but for winter 

 layers — and winter payers — the pullets should not begin work before 

 November. 



Too early laying is often followed by a late moult — and that means 

 good-bye to eggs until the following spring. 



The secret of producing heavy winter layers is in hatching at the 

 right time — according to the breed — and in bringing the pullets to the 

 pink of condition late in the season instead of early. 



One of the most absurd claims made by a certain alleged breeder, 

 was that pullets of his pretended "strain" laid when less than four 

 months old! Had this been true it would have proven that his birds 

 were worthless. The Orpingtons — which this person handled — are 

 large biras; and while this breed is a wonderfully fast g"ower, and 

 can be forced to lay as early as the Leghorns, yet no legitimate Orping- 

 ton breeder ever attempts it. He knows better. 



No pullet of any variety should lay before she is six months old if 

 she is to be used thereafter as a breeder. 



