POULTRY SECRETS REVEALED. 79 



would appear, therefore, that each breeder should find out for himself 

 the best method with his own individual flock and mate accordingly. 



SECRETS OF SELECTING LAYERS. 



It is a trite but true saying that the hen that lays is the hen that 

 pays. Among the very best "bred to lay" pullets there will be some 

 that will never pay for their keep. Such birds should be marketed 

 along with the culls. But the trouble has been to distinguish the 

 prospective layers from the loafers. It will be found to be not especi- 

 ally difficult when the secret is known. And here is the secret: 



Three things require especial consideration when selecting future 

 layers. Observe them in order: 



First — General appearance. 



Second — Shape. 



Third — Conduct. 



Appearance. The pullet that will lay well always looks well. Her 

 comb is bright red, eyes are brilliant, feathers glossy. As noted, the 

 feathers on each side of the comb stand out like brushes. This has 

 proven to be a sure indication. The "why and wherefore" has never 

 been clearly explained, but results have been noted. 



Shape. A wide and deep abdomen, a long and broad back, well 

 spread tail, a full, red comb, bright eyes, broad, full breast, a duck-like 

 walk— all these indicate the layer. 



Conduct. The pullet that will lay well always eats well. She is 

 scratching from dawn to dusk— the first to get busy in the morning. 



