The Effect of Continuous and Limited Administration of Reserpine on the Reproductive Performance of Turkey Hens

Abstract

Two experiments were conducted to determine if either continuous or limited administration of reserpine may effect reproductive performance of B. B. White turkey breeder hens. The basis for this investigation was age of administration prior to initiation of egg production. The basic concept for the project was based upon the premise that a low level of reserpine administered at this stage of sexual maturity and continuing for a 10-week period of egg production may have a stimulatory effect on reproductive performance. The treatments involved 0, 0.5 and 1.0 p.p.m. of reserpine in the feed for a period of three weeks prior to onset of ovulation or continued for a 10-week reproductive period. A significant depression in fertility was recorded although no changes in egg production or hatch of fertile eggs were recorded. There was no apparent influence on time of administration or reproductive performance as defined by the parameters of the investigation.