Effects of regular handling on growth in male and female chicks of broiler and layer strains

The effects of regular handling on growth and gain: food ratios in male and female chicks of layer (two strains) and broiler strains were examined from hatching to 3 weeks of age. 2. Growth was significantly enhanced by regular handling in broilers and the females of the layer strains and gain : food ratios were generally greater in the handled birds. 3. There were no significant treatment effects on growth or gain : food ratios in males of the layer strains. 4. Males had higher relative weight gains and gain : food ratios than females.