Effects of Diethylstilbestrol on Gains and Feed Conversions of Turkeys

A flock of Beltsville Small White turkeys, 12 weeks of age, was divided into 3 equivalent groups of each sex, approximately 300 birds per group. These were kept in pens with shades, and were fed practical diets. Hormone was administered in the usual manner by the subcutaneous injection of pellets containing 15 mg. of diethylstilbestrol, near the back of the head. Treatment at the 15 mg. level unquestionably increased gains and improved feed conversion (Table 1). These effects were applied to a relatively similar degree to both sexes. For example, toms gained 14% more than control toms, while hens gained 12% more than control hens. Treatment at this level proved to be economically advantageous. Apparently, the 30 mg. level was excessive as birds given this dose did very little better than the controls. A second experiment was conducted with 14-week old B.S.W. toms in 3 groups of 50 each and . . .