Intensity and rate of distress calling in chicks as a function of social contact

Abstract

Ten Black Sex-Link chicks were raised with 2 hens for the first week after hatching. On days 7, 8, and 9 following hatching the vocalizations of the chicks were measured in three experimental conditions: when the chicks were alone, when they could hear but not see one of the mother hens (SNS), and when they could hear and see the mother hen (SAS). The rate of distress calling at high intensities decreases significantly with each increase in maternal contact, while the rate of calling at lower intensities increases. Increasing contact with the hen also produces increased numbers of contentment notes.