A"maze"ing growth: Fast chicks gain more weight

Abstract

Genetic selection of broiler chickens for production performance has been associated with changes in their behavior. Traits such as aggressiveness, mating behavior, fearfulness (propensity to be easily frightened), feather pecking and sociality vary considerably within genetic strains. Many of these traits can exert profound effects on the welfare and productivity of farmed poultry because they influence the birds’ ability to adapt to their social and physical environment. In small-scale laboratory and field studies conducted in Argentina, success with a chick behavior test was linked to greater sociality, a reduction in stress responsiveness and improved production performance. The test involved rapid negotiation of a T-maze to regain visual contact with other chicks placed in a nearby brood area. The T-maze uses a mirror at the end of a corridor in the maze that stimulates the test chick to leave a start box and move towards its reflection. Upon reaching the mirror, it can see other birds and thereby be stimulated to exit the maze (a successful outcome). The speed at which a chick traverses the maze is considered indicative of its subsequent production performance (fast chicks gain more weight).