Abstract
Changes in the feeding behaviour and certain other activities of laying hens subjected to a reduction in feeding time were studied. Six hens were reared on mash feed with the feeding time non-restricted or restricted (4hrs. or 2hrs. per day) and were observed for changes in behaviour by the VTR-system in Experiment I. In Experiment II, the feeding time was restricted (4hrs., 3hrs. or 2hrs. per day) and changes in the feeding behaviour of six hens were observed.
1. The amount of feed intake was reduced by 42% in birds fed for only 2hrs, to 20%in birds fed 4hrs, daily.
2. The time spent at pecking feed and the total time engaged in activities utilizing the beak decreased as the feeding time was short.
3. Disturbed behaviour increased with a reduction in feeding time and was particularly evident before feeding.
4. Hens reared on mash feed for a feeding time less than four hours per day could not consume the entire daily ration and manifested greater behavioural disturbance than hens reared on pelleted feed administered under a restricted feeding schedule.
