FEEDING FOR EGG PRODUCTION 261 



supplemented by feeding cracked grain rations twice a day 

 in deep litters; those recommended above can be used to 

 begin witli. They should be carefully studied, both as to 

 cost and efficiency, and from time to time can be modified 

 as conditions warrant. 



LABORATORY EXERCISES 



Exercise No. 65. — Mixing Laying Rations. — Secure the 

 feeds necessary to mix the three rations recommended for 

 the complete feeding of laying hens. Have the class thor- 

 oughly mix them. The best method of mixing in large 

 quantities is to dump all materials in a pile on a hard, smooth 

 floor. Shovel the pile over to one side, making another pile. 

 Do this three or four times until the mixture is complete. 

 When each shovelful is emptied the contents should be 

 spread over the top of the pile. When the rations are being 

 mixed study their appearance and conditions. 



Exercise No. 66. — Feeding Laying Hens. — Using the ra- 

 tions mixed above, allow one or more flocks of layers to be 

 fed the same for a given time (three months). It is best to 

 feed a small flock owned by the school. If not possible a 

 student's flock will answer. The class can visit same occa- 

 sionally and reports can be given. Complete records of 

 amount and cost of feed consumed should be kept. The 

 daily egg production and the selling price of eggs should be 

 recorded. After the period is over or at the end of each week 

 or month, the class can figure out the profit above feed 

 consumed and other facts of interest to poultry keepers. 



THOUGHT QUESTIONS 



1. What are the two definite objects in view when feeding for egg 



production? 



2. What is meant by feeding for maintenance? 



3. Give the average composition of the bird's body. 



4. For which purpose does the bird use the feed consumed, mainten- 



ance or production? 



5. Give the average composition of the egg. 



6. Why is egg production a drain on vitaUty? 



7. Give figures showing the record of Belle of Jersey's production. 



