Effect of Color in Rearing and Testing Environment on the Behavior of Young Domestic Chicks

Abstract

Young domestic chicks were reared individually in compartments of four different colors and then tested either in a color-preference test with stationary objects ( N = 128) or with a moving stimulus ( N = 128). For each type of test we used four background colors in the test arena. The dependent variables included color preferences, following behavior and emotional responses of the young chicks. The results showed no significant effects of the color of the arena-background in either test situation. The color of the rearing compartment was a significant factor affecting color preferences in the test with stationary objects. In both test situations the colors red, and then green, were the most potent in affecting the color preferences and emotional responses exhibited by the chicks.