REARING CHICKS IN BROODERS. 



A Plain Description of Proved Successful Metliods of Brooding 



and Feeding — Dry Food Maizes Healthy Chicks — Separate 



the Sexes — Causes of Bowel Trouble. 



By F- Q. Thayer. 



The time has come when the hen in her small way is not 

 capable of hatching and brooding the large numbfer of chick^ 

 that our markets demand and artificial methods are a neces- 

 sity. Natural conditions, however, must be followed as 

 much as possible for best results. 



The rearing of chicks is the most difficult part of the 

 poultry business. The poultryman's success depends largely 

 upon his ability to increase the flock; if unable to do so he 

 will be gradually forced out of the business. The first 

 few week's life influences to a great extent the value of the 

 future flock. In order to have good mature stock it is neces- 

 sary that they get a good start. Therefore^ your breeding 

 fowls must be in prime of condition; they must be vigorous, 

 healthy, ipature and not forced for egg production during 

 winter months. This kind, of stock will give fertile eggs 

 with strong germs which will produce vigorous, healthy 

 chicks. 



Causes of Mortality. 



Some of the causes of mortality in rearing brooded chicks 

 are lack of ventilation, overfeeding, too much or too little 

 heat, lack of exercise, unsanitary conditions, feeding too 

 soon after hatching, lack of vigor in the breeding stock and 

 improper handling of the eggs before and during incubation. 

 Much care is necessary to successfully raise chicks to matu- 

 rity. Do not force them to leave the brooder too early, as 

 it causes undersized, stunted chicks that may not feather 

 properly. Ventilation is needed at all times and foul air 

 should never be tolerated. It -will cause sickness and loss 

 of life. 



