Published online by Cambridge University Press: 02 September 2010
Changes in the level of aggression in a restricted feeding situation were examined in a herd of goats with a stable dominance hierarchy. It was found that the number of butts occurring (the level of aggression) depended on both the nature and novelty of the various feeds presented. In general the highest number of butts and the lowest consumption were recorded on the first occasion that each feed was presented. The introduction of unfamiliar or highly desirable feeds to livestock may require special precautions if increased aggression is to be avoided.