CHAPTER X 
POULTRY 
Poultry raising has made rapid progress during the 
past few years and is now considered one of the most 
important and profitable branches of American Agricul¬ 
ture. It is a phase of livestock production that is well 
adapted to the small backyard as well as to all sizes and 
types of farms. It is a business that offers work for 
boys and girls and adults of the home. The government, 
schools, and agricultural workers are cooperating with 
farmers and home owners in the production of “more and 
better poultry,” in order that they may supply their 
tables with meat and eggs and have a surplus to sell. 
Home Projects in Poultry.—The ambitious boy or 
girl who is interested in animals and wants to do some¬ 
thing for himself will find opportunity in poultry raising. 
It is not necessary that a beginner have a great amount 
of capital or a thorough knowledge of poultry before 
making a start. One may start on a small scale with a 
few dollars and learn as he works. 
Source of Stock.—Birds may be secured by buying 
several settings of eggs, baby chicks, or mature fowls. 
In purchasing birds or eggs, it is important that the 
parent stock should be purebred, true to description, free 
from disease, and strong and vigorous. The baby chicks 
and mature birds that you are thinking of buying should 
show marks of good breeding, proper care, good vitality, 
and uniformity of size. 
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