The performance of nest building by domestic hens: is it more important than the construction of a nest? (1989)

Hughes, B. O., Duncan, I. J. H., Brown, M. F.

Abstract

Nest-building behaviour was not [emphasis added] inhibited by the existence of a preformed nest. This finding does not support the hypothesis that animal welfare in intensive housing can be safeguarded merely by providing that environment which would have been created by the animal's own activities. Rather, it suggests that performance of behaviour can in itself be reinforcing and that provision is required for such a behaviour to be carried out.