POULTRY LABORATORY GUIDE 17 



size and average as regards color and shape. 

 The selection should be influenced by the aver- 

 age product of the hen or breed. 



The preceding table shows average sizes and 

 dimensions and weights of eggs "from our com- 

 mon breeds. 



Measure and compare a number of eggs with 

 the above table ; after a little practice it will be 

 very easy to readily judge by sight and touch 

 the size, shape, and weight of each egg which is 

 handled. An unusually large egg may be a 

 freak of nature and cannot be expected to hatch. 

 An unusually small egg may be defective and 

 should not be used for incubation. An even, 

 uniform lot, assorted as to size, color, and shape, 

 will be more apt to give the best results. An egg 

 of unusual length or rotundity should not be 

 saved, the probabihty being that a chick, if it 

 developed at all, would be so malformed as to be 

 unable to leave the shell. 



The following figure illustrates normal and 

 abnormal eggs. 



If the egg is at all soiled, it should be washed 

 clean, wiped dry, and placed with the others in 

 strong trays or racks. Care must be taken in 

 washing not to jar the contents, as it may injure 

 the egg for hatching. As fast as they are placed 

 in the racks they should be covered with a few 



