Imprinting period

Scientific experimentation with the imprinting period, the phase of an animal's life when its mind is most open to stimuli, is the topic of discussion. In a remote broadcast remote from McDonough, Md., Eckhardt Hess, professor of psychology at the University of Chicago, explains and demonstrates a number of imprinting experiments. Also interviewed for this program is a staff member at the McDonough School, Mr. Ramsey. Most of the experiments have previously been performed on birds. A duck about six hours old is placed in an enclosure with an alarm clock, a squeaky rubber ball, or a loudspeaker emitting frequent repetitions of a sound. The duck learns to identify affectionately with, or imprints on, such an object. This bond may last a lifetime. Most of the experiments performed in this broadcast fail and provide for an amusing show. One duck is successfully imprinted on Charles Collingwood and follows him around the yard.