Dopamine and mesotocin neurotransmission during the transition from incubation to brooding in the turkey

► We have shown that dopamine and mesotocin through their receptors appear to initiate maternal behavior in turkeys. ► Mesotocin was co-expressed with c-fos mRNA in the PVN, and SOv upon the initiation of brooding the young. ► The results suggest a role for PVN and SOv mesotocin in the initiation of maternal behavior in birds. ► The results are similar to that of oxytocin in these same brain structures in mammals during parturition and lactation.