Chapter VIII 

 KEEPING POULTRY ON A TOWN LOT 



THE no-yard system makes it possible to 

 keep a few hens on a very small lot. To 

 be sure, this is not the best system, all 

 things considered, but it offers a very satisfactory 

 solution of the poultry-keeping problem where only 

 a little land is available. By a little land is meant 

 enough to provide the site for a house 10x12 or 

 smaller, with sufficient open space around to admit 

 air in abundance and sunlight for at least four or 

 five hours every day. When this system is fol- 

 lowed, the hens never leave the house. In order 

 that the birds may be kept in good condition when 

 confined so closely, the house should have unusually 

 large openings in front, with muslin curtains to 

 drop when the weather becomes exceptionally cold 

 or when the rain beats in. If the Summers are very 

 hot, something in the way of an awning may be 

 needed to protect the fowls; a hinged shutter is often 

 used. The house may also be made cooler by cut- 



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