POULTRY NOTES

Manawatu Standard, Volume LVII, Issue 156, 3 June 1937, Page 15

POULTRY NOTES

(By “Brooder.”) Poultry-stealing became so prevalent in America that something had to be done. The result is that now.there is in vogue a system of tattooing supervised by the State in order to track down thieves and give some sorb of protection to poultry-owners. It is now possible to trace stolen fowls, and in many cases to secure the conviction of the thieves. Prior to the institution of the tattooing method, when persons suspected of having stolen birds in then- possession were charged with the offence, the difficulty was to identify beyond doubt the birds said to lrnve been stolen. This hindrance to justice is now overcome by the tattooing process, many cases of theft being brought to light. An article in Poultry describes the process as follows: —(1) The feathers are removed from the lower side of the web of the wing. (2) The web is pierced with tattooing pliers by applying these to the exposed part. (13) Tattooing ink is shaken thoroughly and liberally over the holes, completely filling them. (4) Ink is then pressed or massaged into the impressions with the thumb and finger, but the surplus is not wiped off; this wears off in a day or so, leaving a clear permanent marking. Whilst the formula of the ink is not disclosed, the following forms an efficient material for the purpose: Lamp black, 10 per cent.; alcohol, 20 per cent. The journal adds that statistics show a reduction of thefts in America, since the preventive measures were taken. English authorities who have madeenquiries regarding the scheme are convinced that it would be worth while to start a similar scheme in England. Though in New Zealand there does not appear to he any urgent need for such measures, owners of valuable birds may be interested and consider it worth while to protect themselves against any people who have eyes on their property. To reach the desired 50 per cent, egg ,-ield during the winter months, and exceed it if possible, is the ambition of all pullet owners. It is not always possible. There are so many contributing factors which help to attain such a percentage. Not a. few miss the mark because of inexperience and improper treatment. . ,

To secure eggs we must have birds of a good strain; they must be fully matured and in laying condition. Given these features all that now remains is careful handling and well-balanced rood. Good housing, free from draughts n.nd free from parasites, is also essential. It must he remembered that winter laying is unnatural, and birds are led purposely to encourage production. Anv ordinary fowl will lay iu the spring time and during the summer months. Only birds reared and fed for winter laying will produce eggs at a profit. As shown last week meat or meatmeal must be included; this in itself is an urge to production which birds need during the winter months. Without it eggs cannot bo had and anyone trying to secure a good percentage without it is likely to be ifeappointed. Green feed, too, must iiot bo overlooked. Even the grass run will not compensate for a shortage of good green leaf of plant or vegetable, which should be feci liberally to the birds. Good housing as stated is a prime factor in encouraging contentment which leads to good work. Maize, oats, chou moellicr and silver beet are amongst the becst known green feeds for poultry. No poultrymaji can afford to he without his patch of any ono of these during the winter months. Jas. Hadlingtou ill the Sydney Morning Herald says:—lf the present trend of things throughout the poultry world continues the art of breeding goclcl fowls is in danger of being lost to all but the comparatively small section which breeds fowls for allow or as a hobby. This section must at least study mating with a view to breeding character, physique and stamina to a yubstantial extent, or go down in competition within itself. It is noteworthy, too, that this section is successfully invading the utility classes at shows, accounting for a. good deal of the improvement in those sections noticeable during recent years. It is all to the good that it should bo so, even though the standard sections are somewhat neglected in consequence. These breeders, together with the few stud breeding’ establishments which remain, are the “salt of the earth” in poultry culture. . Show time is here again and the Manawatu Association has all ready for what it hopes will bo its best show yet. The show this year will be entirely made up with poultry and pigeons, other bird sections being included in the show promoted by the Palmerston North Canary and Budgerigar Club m another building. There is no reason why both bodies should not register record displays in their respective sections, Tn both cases entries are coming in freely.