Feeding behaviour and mechanisms in domestic birds.

Abstract

AbstractThe aim of this chapter is to provide a review with some examples showing the inter-relationship between behavioural, physiological and mechanical properties that play a key role for understanding the feeding behaviour in domestic birds. The complexity of neuromotor control of feeding performances in domestic birds is shown, using examples of galliform and anseriform birds, to determine the posture needed for feeding in relationship with the structure of the cervico-cranial system and describe the feeding cycles involving jaw and hyolingual movements. The chapter also shows how feeding behaviour in birds with various trophic systems share some basic functional characteristics of the feeding cycle suggested for tetrapods. The ability of modulating these characteristics provides the functional basis for improving the nutrition of domestic birds.