Abstract
Thermoregulatory responses in the resting and the fasting states were studied from July to February in 20 White Leghorn laying hens in a hot-dry climate (41°C mean maximal summer temperature) and in 20 hens transferred in June from the hot-dry climate to a warm climate (30°C mean maximal summer temperature). The relationships of metabolic rates, skin and rectal temperature to ambient temperatures were similar in both climatic groups. In both groups metabolic rates were 18% lower in summer than in winter. The thermal comfort temperature zone and rectal temperatures were significantly higher than those found in controlled climates. The relationship of metabolic rate to mean body temperature is suggested for defining the thermal comfort temperature zone.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 265-274 |
Number of pages | 10 |
Journal | International Journal of Biometeorology |
Volume | 13 |
Issue number | 3-4 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Dec 1969 |