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Abstract

Key-pecking was assessed in 8 previously trained adult male Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) during exposure to a series of conditions: 1 companion present with compartment lights on (visible) or off (not visible), and no companion present with compartment lights on or off. Birds were tested in a double operant chamber during 4 phases of procedure: (1) performance, (2) extinction, (3) reconditioning, and (4) performance. Significant inhibition of key-pecking was obtained during Phases 1, 3, and 4 when 1 companion was present and visible to subjects. Extinction (Phase 2) was slightly faster during the condition with 1 companion visible. These results with previously learned behavior provide further data contradictory to Zajonc's (1965) assumption that well learned responses are enhanced in the presence of a companion. Social inhibition of operant behavior, previously obtained in the rat, was also demonstrated in this avian species.

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Inhibition of Operant Responding in Japanese Quail during Visual Exposure to a Companion

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