CHAPTER XV 

 Hard Coal Ashes, Oyster Shell, and Grit 



As stated in the chapter on "Anthracite Cbal 

 Ashes," ashes have entirely taken the place of char- 

 coal on The Corning Egg Farm. They are fed in 

 hoppers with the Grit and Oyster Shell. These hop- 

 pers are divided into three compartments, and are 

 automatic in feeding down the ingredients, in small 

 quantities at a time, for Biddy's use. 



It is very essential to- supply the hen with the 

 proper grinding material for operation in her mill, 

 for, from the crop, what she takes into her system in 

 the way of grain, etc., is passed into the gizzard, where 

 she places a certain amount of hard, sharp stones, 

 to use as mill stones, and this great muscular organ 

 then puts the food into the proper condition for her 

 to assimilate it. 



The Grit placed in the hoppers is hard and sharp. 

 Ordinary pebbles are of no use to Biddy in preparing 

 her food for digestion. There are a great many dif- 

 ferent grits on the market sold through Poultry Sup- 

 ply Houses, and by the manufacturers themselves. 

 Where it is possible to procure Grit having the essen- 

 tials as already described, and carrying a good per- 



99 



