16 
THE POULTRY BOOK. 
far superior to those made in one piece, as they admit of being cleaned readily 
inside, which is not the case with those of the ordinary pattern. 
Many of the most intelligent and successful rearers of chickens and pheasants 
are in the habit of administering to the young birds a chalybeate tonic in the 
water given them to drink; and they speak very highly of its good effects in 
those cases where broods are weakly, or where the young fowls are inclined to 
outgrow their strength. For this purpose an ounce of sulphate of iron (green 
vitriol), may he dissolved in a quart bottle of water, and two or three spoonfuls 
of this solution added to the water in the drinking-fountain, sufficient being 
supplied to give it a slight inky taste. 
The effect of this chalybeate on the health and vigour of the birds is very 
marked ; their combs brighten in colour, their appetite increases, and their general 
stamina is much improved. 
