i 4 8 THE HOME POULTRY BOOK 



Be sure that the hen is dusted with lice powder 

 several times while she is sitting, the last time just 

 before the chicks hatch. 



Spade up the poultry yard as soon as the ground 

 can be worked. If it has been neglected, scrape 

 up and remove an inch or more of the surface dirt, 

 which is sure to be very foul. 



The strongest chicks will come from hens which 

 have not been forced hard for winter eggs. Se- 

 lecting hatching eggs from those laid by overworked 

 pullets is not a wise plan. 



Duck eggs usually run fertile this month and 

 this is early enough for the amateur to set them, 

 especially those laid by Indian Runners. 



Study the brooder catalogues. Outdoor brooders 

 will be satisfactory for chicks hatched as late as 

 March. Small colony houses with a good hover 

 set in each give good results. After the need for 

 heat has passed, the hover may be removed and 

 the chicks allowed to use the house for a coop. 



APRIL 



Chicks of the smaller breeds hatched this month 

 will mature in time to begin laying in the Fall. 



