2i8 The Hen at Work 



Conn., station, where a great deal of experimental 

 work is now being carried on along this line. 



Liver Trouble. — Many of the birds which die in 

 laying flocks go from liver trouble. Medical men 

 say that this is brought on by imi)roper housing 

 and feeding. Where flocks are given the best of 

 care, as at laying contests, there is still death from 

 liver complaint, usually (Caused by a diet too rich 

 for the fowl in question. It would not be wise, 

 however, to make any change in rations merely 

 because a bird now and then died in this way. 

 The rations in this book, and all modem works 

 on feeding, are rich, and purposely made so. 

 They keep the flock laying at top speed, and 

 it is not suprising if some hens fail to stand the 

 pace. 



There are no symptoms with which liver troubles 

 can be detected for sure, even by experts. A post- 

 mortem examination shows at once if the liver 

 has been affected. The post mortem is a bit late, 

 of course, but always interesting. 



Poisons. — Salt, nitrate of soda, and copper poi- 

 soning may occur among poultry. Salt they may 

 get by various accidents. The nitrate is used 

 as fertilizer, and may be picked up in the garden. 



