236 
COMMON OR BARN-DOOR FOWL, 
where her anxiety will only permit of a very momen- 
tary absence, during which the shells are to be removed, 
and a small quantity of fine meadow hay inserted into 
the bottom of the nest, the chicks being previously held 
in a small basket till the return of the parent, who in- 
stinctively makes for and occupies her former abode, 
no doubt sufficiently alarmed at the apparent absence 
of her young, but which fear is soon removed, by their 
being placed one by one under her. We have re- 
peatedly experienced the value of this precaution, in 
saving the chicks from being overlaid, through the rest- 
less anxiety of the mother, to secure the brood under 
her fostering wings, after feeding herself. 
It is of great consequence to have a proper quantity 
of dry sand or ashes near the feeding-board, in which 
the sitters may rub themselves, in order to disengage 
any vermin adhering to their bodies, causing such rest- 
lessness, as in some cases to induce them to desert their 
charge ; and along with this requisite, water in abun- 
dance must be provided. 
We quote, from the interesting work of M. Bueknell, 
Esq., the following account of the progressive stages of 
life, as developed in the egg of a Common Hen : — • 
On the third day the embryo organization of the 
skull, brain, heart, and blood, is perceptible by the aid 
of a magnifying glass. 
