114 Th^e Hen at Work 



high average of pullets. No such results should 

 be expected, however. If you set round eggs you 

 are likely to get hens that lay round eggs, and the 

 total results will probably be poor. Choose the 

 egg that is recognized as standard in size, color, 

 and shape for the breed you handle. 



In the early spring months, when many wish to 

 get started with incubation, the nests must be 

 visited frequently. During February and March 

 the temperature will be low, and an hour or two 

 in freezing weather may kill the germ in the egg. 



Even on mild days the eggs should be gathered 

 at least twice daily, not only to keep them from 

 freezing, but to get them as clean as possible. 

 Dirty eggs should not be used. Washing hurts 

 the egg for hatching, as it damages the pores 

 through which oxygen passes in to the embryo 

 chick. 



Those having small flocks can seldom provide 

 enough eggs in one day for hatching, as only part 

 of the total lay aie satisfactory. Until the eggs 

 can be used, they should be put in a cool, airy 

 place. A well-ventilated cellar, or pantry, where 

 the temperature runs between fifty and seventy 

 degrees will be suitable. Below fifty the germ 



