Effect of Molting on the Energy Requirements of Japanese Quail

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Energy consumption by caged Japanese Quail Coturnix coturnix during molt at a low temperature was investigated. The period of feather loss extended for approximately 28 days. The time interval between a change in environmental conditions at the beginning of the experiment and the initiation of feather loss varied from 31-43 days with a mean value of 39 days. Feather loss was greatest during the 1st 10 days and gradually declined until no feathers were lost on or after day 29. Energy consumption, as indicated by metabolizable energy, increased during molting. To consider the significance of this change, the experiment was divided into 3 periods with respect to energy consumption: permolt (all days prior to day 0), peak molt (day 12-33) and postmolt (day 55 to the termination of the experiment). Metabolic rate, as reflected in the O2 consumption, also showed a marked change during molting.