CHAPTER VI 



FEEDING AND CARE OF CHICKS AND GROW- 

 ING STOCK 



In addition to having the chicks hatched early, it is most 

 important to keep the chicks growing, so that they will 

 reach maturity and start laying before cold weather. Con- 

 sidering this fact, it is 

 well, therefore, to keep 

 in mind the factors that 

 are essential for the prop- 

 er growth and develop- 

 ment of the young stock. 



FEEDING AND CARE 

 OF YOUNG CHICKS 



The first feed. It is 



advised that the chicks 

 should not be fed until 

 they are 36 to 48 hours 

 old. The yolk of the egg 

 which is absorbed j ust be- 

 fore the chick is hatched 

 furnishes all the nourishment required during this time. 



It is very necessary that the yolk of the egg be thoroughly 

 digested before the first feed is given. Many beginners, 

 not understanding this fact, and who are anxious to feed 

 the young chicks, give them feed before they are ready for 

 it. Such practice frequently results in bowel trouble and 

 very often in the death of the chick. It is this provision of 

 nature for the first food of the chick that makes it possible 

 to ship newly hatched chicks considerable distances without 

 feed or water. At the start it is advisable to feed five 



Figure 107. — The yolk of the egg just before 

 it is absorbed by the chick. 



108 



