Effects of group size on the feeding behaviour and growth of chicks

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Abstract
1. The aim of the study was to see if social facilitation of feeding has a lasting effect on the growth of chicks. 2. In two experiments, newly hatched hybrid and Brown Leghorn chicks were reared in isolation and in small groups of different sizes, and their growth, food intake and feeding activity were measured for several eeks. 3. Initially, chicks of both strains grew faster when they were grouped than when they were in isolation, as a result of a more efficient conversion of food rather than as a result of increased consumption. 4. Later, chicks in the largest groups converted their food less efficiently, possibly because of increased disturbance. 5. From 6 to 12 weeks, when the chicks were in larger cages, growth rate was not affected by group size, but food intake and food conversion were affected differently in the two strains. 6. In general, the isolated chicks ate about the same amount as the grouped ones, and it is doubtful whether social facilitation of feeding occurred at all in these experiments.