Exposure to postnatal stress on post hatch day 1 has no long-term behavioral effects in domestic chickens. Social regrouping is stressful for chickens and affects many of their behaviors. Female birds are also generally more active and less fearful than males.

This study is not only important for gaining more understanding of the impacts early stress may have on physiology and behavior later on in life, but also for animal welfare. Understanding how birds cope with stress and what long-term impacts it may have as a result is crucial for the improvement of their welfare.