Breeding for Eggs 201 



that the trap nest, while it will always be of value 

 in tests, and in the hands of fanciers, can be of 

 little help to the average poultry man. The trap 

 nest is annoying to many birds, hard to keep in 

 perfect order, and calls for more attention than any 

 busy person can possibly give. 



Line Breedings.^ — The best results in breeding 

 poultry for eggs are gained by knowing the past 

 history of the family, or line, to which the particu- 

 lar hen in question belongs ; and by having an equal 

 knowledge regarding the male with which she is 

 bred. 



Ezample.^ — It is well known that Barred Rocks 

 are strong, heavy layers of fertile eggs. No mix- 

 tures show traits so good. If we handle Barred 

 Rocks, then, we must be sure that no, one has 

 crossed the breed with another class two or 

 three generations back. If this cross has been 

 made, even if the specimen imder consideration 

 seems a perfect Barred Rock, her chicks will 

 surely show various traits. The breed must be 

 pure. 



We must also know how the family, to which our 

 breeding male and female belong, have performed. 

 Have the mothers been strong layers? Have their 



