The Birmingham age-herald., 1914-09-20

But whether We attempt to force our adult birds to mott or merely let na- ture take her course. they will shed their old feathers, snd their treatme mt during the slow process of replacing them is the same in any case. Remember that while molting hens are not sick, they are not in their nor maj condition, and they are more sus- ceptible of diseases of various Kinds than at other times. This indicates the necessity of giving them partct- larly good care, protecting them In every way and supplying a ration con taining an abundance of those ma terials they require at this time. Tco often the molting flocks are actually neglected and practically permitted 10 shift for themselves, because they ate not contributing to the market e6S besket Such a policy is shortsighted' as lack of care merely forces them to take more time to get their new fealh- CTS and postpones the date upon which they again produce regularly. II there is any good reason for giving the pull lets extra care in order to coax them to start laying early, the same arga- ment can be cited in support of the contention that the melting specimens should be given assistance also
 Comfortable Tonics Required
 In the first place, the latter should be given quarters which are clean, dry ana comfortable. Dampness and drafts must be avoided. Lice, if any are present. should be disposed of by thoroughly dust ing the hens with some good powdered lice killer, or by rubbing into the feathers about the vent a smal quantity of blue ointment The latter may be mixed with equal parts of vaseline if skill irritation is feared.
 The ration should be liberal in quan- tity and varied in composition. It is es- pecially desirable that plenty of animal food be supplied at this time. Beef scraps, fish scraps and green cut bone are all ex- cellent. An abundance of skim milk IS also a great help.
 Bone in some form is also demanded. Probably fresh or green bone is best, but lacking this, granulated bone in hoppers or bone meal mixed with the mash will serve the purpose.
 use of linseed meal in the ration at this time. Sunfiower seeds are also to be recommended. These materials are oily and seem to be particularly valuable.
 Beyond this point there are other little helps which are worth considering. The use of a gentle laxative, as Epson salts in small quantities, assists in passing off the body wastes. A good intestinal anti septic will do much toward warding off diseases and keeping the entire system in working order.
 The Use of TOnics
 A mild tonic will help the good work English poultrymen rely largely upon the old-time douglass mixture which is pre- pared as follows: Place in glazed earth en jar one-quarter pound of sulphate of iron crystals. Add half ounce of sul- phuric acid. Over these pour a gallon of water, stirring brisky. Stir daily for a few days, skimming off any scum that rises. Keep tightly covered.
 The above solution is added to the drinking water, one tablespoonful to the quart The water must then be given in wooden or earthen vessels, never in metal ones.
 Powdered sulphur. or flowers of sulphur, is also considered fine for molting fowls This should occasionally be added to the mash at the rate of a tablespoonful for each dozen birds. Avoid feeding it on any but fine, clear days; never during damp spells.
 If the above suggestions are faithfully carried out. the poultryman will find that his adult fowls will come through the mott in less. time. with less sickness and mortality and will begin laying earlier, and so prove more profitable than when they are permitted to drag along without special attention. That such results are desirable from every point of view is self-apparent