Abstract

In this article, we review the role of Prolactin, the parental hormone secreted by the adenohypophysis of the pituitary gland in birds. Release of prolactin is regulated by the Ca+ dependent mechanism in birds. In lactating mammals, prolactin is associated with regulation of milk production, whereas, in birds, this hormone is associated with incubation behaviour and broodiness. In pigeons, is associated with the secretion of crop milk. Plasma concentration of prolactin and Luteinizing hormone varies with the breeding cycle which determines the success of incubation in birds.