BREEDING 



103 



stretched out, at a convenient height. The bird is usually 

 pinioned by looping weighted cords over the legs and wings, 

 as shown in the illustrations. Previous to the operation the 

 only preparation necessary is to keep the bird from food and 

 water for thirty-six hours. This will allow the intestines 

 to empty and subside, making the operation much easier 

 and less dangerous. There will be less bleeding if water is 

 also withheld. This must not be overlooked. 



Fig. 43 



Tearing away the membranea. (Courtesy of Kansas Experiment Station.) 



"The operation may be performed from either side. A 

 few feathers should be plucked just in front of the thigh, 

 thus laying bare a small space just over the last rib. The 

 surrounding feathers should be moistened to make them lie 

 down and not interfere during the operation. The last 

 two ribs should now be located by the forefinger of the left 

 hand, as shown in Fig. 41. Having located the ribs, pull the 

 skin as far toward the thigh or hip as possible. (This is done 

 so that when the operation is over the incision in the skin 

 will not be over the incision in the flesh, as shown in Fig. 46.) 



