Early experience of a complex environment can improve biologically relevant traits related to coping abilities. However, the mechanisms underlying these positive effects are not well explored. We hypothesised that the possibility to express a choice, leading to increased control over the environment, could play an important role. In a balanced design, laying hen hatchlings were reared either in a ‘No-Choice’ environment (single litter and perch type) or a ‘Choice’ environment (four different litter and perch types). Immunological and behavioural indicators of birds’ coping abilities were explored at three weeks of age. Chicks from Choice environments had higher natural antibody titres, lower H/L ratios, required more attempts for tonic immobility induction and were more successful gaining novel food rewards in a repeated challenge test. Results imply that their improved natural immune response better prepared Choice chicks for coping with pathogenic challenges, that they experienced less chronic stress and were less fearful. To conclude, the increased potential for control and stimulation arising from making decisions in an early complex environment seemed to better prepare birds for a variety of challenges to come, boosting their adaptive capacities and their ability to make the most of opportunities.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.
hi@scite.ai
10624 S. Eastern Ave., Ste. A-614
Henderson, NV 89052, USA
Copyright © 2024 scite LLC. All rights reserved.
Made with 💙 for researchers
Part of the Research Solutions Family.