Effects of testosterone propionate, prolactin and photoperiod on feeding behaviours of Indian male weaver birds
Das, K.
Indian Journal of Experimental Biology 29(12): 1104-1108
1991
ISSN/ISBN: 0019-5189 PMID: 1816093 Document Number: 377553
Testosterone propionate (TP) is not associated with the total food consumption of the male weaver bird. Reproductively active birds maintained under long daylength eat continuously however under short daylength they eat in 2-3 peaks and are also reproductively quiescent. Results show that total food consumption is independent of length of photoperiod/reproductive states of the bird, perhaps associated wtih the caloric demand of the bird. Prolactin (PRL) stimulates the testicular development of the bird. PRL induced weight loss does not involve decrease food intake as there is no change in the total food consumption of the bird and therefore, reflects the improper utilization of the food. This hormone alters the feeding behaviour from cyclic (2-3 peaks) to continuous pattern.