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McPhee S, Shynkaruk T, Buchynski K, Crowe T, Schwean-Lardner K. How does visible light flicker impact laying hen pullet behavior, fear, and stress levels? Poult Sci 2024; 103:103713. [PMID: 38621348 PMCID: PMC11019458 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.103713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Many characteristics of artificial light have been evaluated; however, light-flicker frequency (F) has not been assessed extensively in poultry. Pullets (1,344 per strain [S]; Lohmann Brown-Lite [LB] and LSL-Lite [LW]) were placed into 8 light-tight rooms, containing 6 floor pens (15 pen replicates per F × S for 30 and 250 Hz; 18 pen replicates per F x S for 90 Hz), and assigned 1 of 3 F treatments (30, 90, 250 Hz). The experiment took place over 2 trials (blocks). To evaluate long-term effects of F during rearing, birds were followed through the hen phase. Data were analyzed using Proc Mixed (SAS 9.4). Differences were considered significant when P ≤ 0.05, and behaviors are expressed as percentage of time. Pullets reared under 30 Hz spent more time performing nutritive behaviors (P < 0.01) and as "unidentified" (P = 0.02) than other treatments. Active behavior demonstrated an age x F interaction, with pullets being more active at 16 wk, regardless of F (P < 0.01). Comfort behaviors were higher at 16 wk compared to other ages, regardless of F (P < 0.01). Exploratory behaviors were lowest at 4 wk in pullets under 30 Hz (P < 0.01). Aggressive behaviors (12 wk) were higher in pullets reared under 250 Hz than those under 90 Hz (P < 0.01). Comb score was unaffected by F (P = 0.79) and all birds scored had a full plumage. Heterophil-to-lymphocyte ratio was unaffected by F at 7 or 15 wk (P = 0.85 and P = 0.54, respectively). In trial 1, pullets reared under 90 Hz had higher corticosterone concentrations than those reared under 250 Hz (P = 0.02) and trial 2 there were no effects of F (P = 0.97). For novel object test, LW pullets reared under 90 Hz had a higher latency to peck than LW pullets under 30 Hz or 250 Hz (P = 0.03). Hen behavior (wk 39) and fear tests (36 wk; novel object test (P = 0.86) and tonic immobility (P = 0.37)) were unaffected by F. Overall, minimal effects of F were seen on pullet and hen behavior and stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- S McPhee
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N5A8, Canada
| | - T Shynkaruk
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N5A8, Canada
| | - K Buchynski
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N5A8, Canada
| | - T Crowe
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N5A9, Canada
| | - K Schwean-Lardner
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7N5A8, Canada.
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McPhee S, Shynkaruk T, Buchynski K, Beaulieu D, Brown J, Crowe T, Schwean-Lardner K. Do flickering LED lights reduce productivity of layer pullets and hens? Poult Sci 2024; 103:103456. [PMID: 38277888 PMCID: PMC10840343 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.103456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Most characteristics of artificial light sources are well studied, however light-flicker frequency (F) has been overlooked. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of F on performance of Lohmann LSL-Lite (LW) pullets and Lohmann Brown-Lite (LB) pullets. In addition, pullets were followed through to the laying phase to evaluate long-term effects of F during rearing on productivity. Two trials were conducted with 3 F (30, 90, or 250 Hz) treatments. LW and LB pullets (n = 2,688 per strain [S]) were randomly assigned to floor pens within 8 light-tight rooms (15 pen replicates per F × S for 30 and 250 Hz; 18 pen replicates per F × S for 90 Hz). At 16 wk, pullets were transferred to conventional layer cages, with no flicker treatment applied. Pullet data collected included BW, feed disappearance, flock uniformity, and overall mortality. Hen data collected included BW, feed intake (feed efficiency calculated), mortality, egg production, and egg quality. Data were analyzed using Proc Mixed (SAS 9.4) and differences were considered significant when P ≤ 0.05. Frequency did not affect pullet uniformity or feed disappearance (0-8 wk and 0-16 wk). Pullets reared under 30 Hz had higher mortality (caused by "other") than those reared under 250 Hz. Lohmann Brown-Lite pullets reared under 30 Hz had the highest feed disappearance. Overall mortality was higher for LW pullets reared under 30 Hz compared to LB reared under 30 Hz or 250 Hz. Lohmann Brown-Lite hens reared under 30 Hz were heavier at the beginning of the hen phase (17 wk), however differences related to F were not seen at 40 or 48 wk. Hen day production (%) was higher for hens reared under 30 compared to 90 Hz (P = 0.03), however no other egg parameters were affected by F. Hen feed efficiency and mortality were unaffected by F. These results indicate minor effects of F, during either the pullet or hen phases. The data also suggest that S (LW vs. LB) may affect response to F.
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Affiliation(s)
- S McPhee
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, S7N5A8
| | - T Shynkaruk
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, S7N5A8
| | - K Buchynski
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, S7N5A8
| | - D Beaulieu
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, S7N5A8
| | - J Brown
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, S7N5A8
| | - T Crowe
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, S7N5A9
| | - K Schwean-Lardner
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, S7N5A8.
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Lafitte A, Sordello R, Legrand M, Nicolas V, Obein G, Reyjol Y. A flashing light may not be that flashy: A systematic review on critical fusion frequencies. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0279718. [PMID: 36584184 PMCID: PMC9803175 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0279718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Light pollution could represent one of the main drivers behind the current biodiversity erosion. While the effects of many light components on biodiversity have already been studied, the influence of flicker remains poorly understood. The determination of the threshold frequency at which a flickering light is perceived as continuous by a species, usually called the Critical Fusion Frequency (CFF), could thus help further identify the impacts of artificial lighting on animals. OBJECTIVE This review aimed at answering the following questions: what is the distribution of CFF between species? Are there differences in how flicker is perceived between taxonomic classes? Which species are more at risk of being impacted by artificial lighting flicker? METHODS Citations were extracted from three literature databases and were then screened successively on their titles, abstracts and full-texts. Included studies were critically appraised to assess their validity. All relevant data were extracted and analysed to determine the distribution of CFF in the animal kingdom and the influence of experimental designs and species traits on CFF. RESULTS At first, 4881 citations were found. Screening and critical appraisal provided 200 CFF values for 156 species. Reported values of CFF varied from a maximum of between 300 Hz and 500 Hz for the beetle Melanophila acuminata D. to a mean of 0.57 (± 0.08) Hz for the snail Lissachatina fulica B. Insects and birds had higher CFF than all other studied taxa. Irrespective of taxon, nocturnal species had lower CFF than diurnal and crepuscular ones. CONCLUSIONS We identified nine crepuscular and nocturnal species that could be impacted by the potential adverse effects of anthropogenic light flicker. We emphasize that there remains a huge gap in our knowledge of flicker perception by animals, which could potentially be hampering our understanding of its impacts on biodiversity, especially in key taxa like bats, nocturnal birds and insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alix Lafitte
- PatriNat (Office Français de la Biodiversité (OFB), Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle (MNHN), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS)), Paris, France
- Association Française de l’Eclairage (AFE), Paris, France
- * E-mail:
| | - Romain Sordello
- PatriNat (Office Français de la Biodiversité (OFB), Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle (MNHN), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS)), Paris, France
| | - Marc Legrand
- PatriNat (Office Français de la Biodiversité (OFB), Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle (MNHN), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS)), Paris, France
- Association Française de l’Eclairage (AFE), Paris, France
- Université Jean Monnet, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Virginie Nicolas
- Association des Concepteurs lumière et Eclairagistes (ACE), Paris, France
- Concepto, Arcueil, France
| | - Gaël Obein
- Association Française de l’Eclairage (AFE), Paris, France
- Laboratoire National de métrologie et d’Essais—Conservatoire National des Arts et Métiers (LNE-CNAM), Saint-Denis, France
| | - Yorick Reyjol
- PatriNat (Office Français de la Biodiversité (OFB), Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle (MNHN), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS)), Paris, France
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Bird Welfare in Zoos and Aquariums: General Insights across Industries. JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGICAL AND BOTANICAL GARDENS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/jzbg3020017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Animal welfare is a priority across accredited zoological institutions; however, historically, research has been prioritized for mammals. Bird-focused studies accounted for less than 10% of welfare research in zoos and aquariums over the last ten years. Due to the lack of scientific publications on bird welfare, zoo scientists and animal practitioners can look to other industries such as agriculture, laboratories, and companion animal research for insight. This qualitative review highlights findings across industries to inform animal care staff and scientists on the welfare needs of birds within zoos and aquariums. Specifically, the review includes an overview of research on different topics and a summary of key findings across nine resources that affect bird welfare. We also highlight areas where additional research is necessary. Future welfare research in zoos and aquariums should prioritize studies that consider a diversity of bird species across topics and work to identify animal-based measures with empirical evidence. Moving forward, research from other industries can help develop innovative research on bird welfare within zoos and aquariums.
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Peng S, Broom DM. The Sustainability of Keeping Birds as Pets: Should Any Be Kept? Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11020582. [PMID: 33672378 PMCID: PMC7927005 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The trade in birds for pet trade is harming wild bird populations and bird welfare. Inadequate housing of many pet birds results in stereotypies and other indicators of poor welfare in the birds that are currently widespread. Some pet birds were taken from the wild or bred in poor conditions, while others had nutritional, health, and behavioral problems resulting from inadequate living conditions and incorrect husbandry by the bird owners. As a consequence, it is not ethically right to keep the majority of the birds that are at present kept as pets. If birds are to be continued as a companion animal for people, then more effort should be made by pet shop owners and veterinarians to supply literature to prospective owners highlighting not only the proper care for the species of bird but also its needs and requirements, so that bird owners can do their utmost to meet them. Owners do not comply with laws requiring duty of care, unless they obtain and act on such information and also have knowledge of how to provide good nutrition and minimize the risk of disease. New laws are needed to prohibit taking birds from the wild and keeping birds in conditions that do not meet their needs. Abstract We describe a wide range of unethical and unsustainable practices inherent to the trading and keeping of pet birds. At present, biodiversity and wild bird populations are being greatly harmed and many individual birds have poor welfare. Wild-caught birds should not be sold to the public as pets, or to breeding establishments for several reasons, including because 75–90% of wild-caught birds die before the point of sale and taking birds from the wild has negative effects on biodiversity. The housing provided for pet birds should meet the needs of birds of that species and allow good welfare, for example there should be no small cages but aviaries with space for each bird to exercise adequately, and social birds should be kept in social groups. At present, inadequate housing of many pet birds results in stereotypies and other indicators of poor welfare in birds. Owners should have knowledge of how to provide good nutrition and minimize the risk of disease. Unless these changes are made, keeping birds as pets should not be permitted. New laws are needed to prohibit taking birds from the wild and ensure captive pet birds in conditions that do meet their needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawn Peng
- Taipei Zoo, No.30, Sec.2, Xinguang Road, Taipei 116, Taiwan
- Correspondence:
| | - Donald M. Broom
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and St Catharine’s College, University of Cambridge, Madingley Road, Cambridge CB3 0ES, UK;
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Vergneau-Grosset C, Péron F. Effect of ultraviolet radiation on vertebrate animals: update from ethological and medical perspectives. Photochem Photobiol Sci 2020; 19:752-762. [PMID: 33856678 DOI: 10.1039/c9pp00488b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Many animals under human care are kept indoors to prevent infectious diseases vectored by wildlife, facilitate environment control, or due to the lifestyle of their owners. However, ultraviolet radiation has documented effects on animal vision, vitamin synthesis, immunity, behavior, psychogenic disorders and on their environment. Ultraviolet-emitting lights are commercially available and the documentation of their effect on indoor-housed animals is increasing. This article reviews published information about ultraviolet effects in vertebrate animals from veterinary and ethological perspectives, and techniques used to assess ultraviolet exposure across animal taxa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Vergneau-Grosset
- Department of Clinical sciences, Faculté de médecine vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 rue Sicotte, J2S 2 M2, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada.
| | - Franck Péron
- 15 Rue de la Johardière, 44 800, Saint-Herblain, France
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Potier S, Lieuvin M, Pfaff M, Kelber A. How fast can raptors see? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 223:jeb.209031. [PMID: 31822552 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.209031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Birds, and especially raptors, are highly visual animals. Some of them have the highest spatial resolving power known in the animal kingdom, allowing prey detection at distance. While many raptors visually track fast-moving and manoeuvrable prey, requiring high temporal resolution, this aspect of their visual system has never been studied before. In this study, we estimated how fast raptors can see, by measuring the flicker fusion frequency of three species with different lifestyles. We found that flicker fusion frequency differed among species, being at least 129 Hz in the peregrine falcon, Falco peregrinus, 102 Hz in the saker falcon, Falco cherrug, and 81 Hz in the Harris's hawk, Parabuteo unicinctus We suggest a potential link between fast vision and hunting strategy, with high temporal resolution in the fast-flying falcons that chase fast-moving, manoeuvrable prey and a lower resolution in the Harris's hawk, which flies more slowly and targets slower prey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Potier
- Lund Vision Group, Department of Biology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 35, Lund S-22362, Sweden
| | - Margaux Lieuvin
- Lund Vision Group, Department of Biology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 35, Lund S-22362, Sweden
| | - Michael Pfaff
- Lund Vision Group, Department of Biology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 35, Lund S-22362, Sweden
| | - Almut Kelber
- Lund Vision Group, Department of Biology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 35, Lund S-22362, Sweden
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Goller B, Fellows TK, Dakin R, Tyrrell L, Fernández-Juricic E, Altshuler DL. Spatial and Temporal Resolution of the Visual System of the Anna's Hummingbird ( Calypte anna) Relative to Other Birds. Physiol Biochem Zool 2019; 92:481-495. [PMID: 31393209 DOI: 10.1086/705124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Hummingbirds are an emerging model for studies of the visual guidance of flight. However, basic properties of their visual systems, such as spatial and temporal visual resolution, have not been characterized. We measured both the spatial and temporal visual resolution of Anna's hummingbirds using behavioral experiments and anatomical estimates. Spatial visual resolution was determined behaviorally using the optocollic reflex and anatomically using peak retinal ganglion cell densities from retinal whole mounts and eye size. Anna's hummingbirds have a spatial visual resolution of 5-6 cycles per degree when measured behaviorally, which matches anatomical estimates (fovea: 6.26 ± 0.12 cycles per degree; area temporalis: 5.59 ± 0.15 cycles per degree; and whole eye average: 4.64 ± 0.08 ). To determine temporal visual resolution, we used an operant conditioning paradigm wherein hummingbirds were trained to use a flickering light to find a food reward. The limits of temporal visual resolution were estimated as 70-80 Hz. To compare Anna's hummingbirds with other bird species, we used a phylogenetically controlled analysis of previously published data on avian visual resolutions and body size. Our measurements for Anna's hummingbird vision fall close to and below predictions based on body size for spatial visual resolution and temporal visual resolution, respectively. These results indicate that the enhanced flight performance and foraging behaviors of hummingbirds do not require enhanced spatial or temporal visual resolution. This finding is important for interpreting flight control studies and contributes to a growing understanding of avian vision.
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Fischer CP, Romero LM. Chronic captivity stress in wild animals is highly species-specific. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2019; 7:coz093. [PMID: 31824674 PMCID: PMC6892464 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coz093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/13/2019] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Wild animals are brought into captivity for many reasons-conservation, research, agriculture and the exotic pet trade. While the physical needs of animals are met in captivity, the conditions of confinement and exposure to humans can result in physiological stress. The stress response consists of the suite of hormonal and physiological reactions to help an animal survive potentially harmful stimuli. The adrenomedullary response results in increased heart rate and muscle tone (among other effects); elevated glucocorticoid (GC) hormones help to direct resources towards immediate survival. While these responses are adaptive, overexposure to stress can cause physiological problems, such as weight loss, changes to the immune system and decreased reproductive capacity. Many people who work with wild animals in captivity assume that they will eventually adjust to their new circumstances. However, captivity may have long-term or permanent impacts on physiology if the stress response is chronically activated. We reviewed the literature on the effects of introduction to captivity in wild-caught individuals on the physiological systems impacted by stress, particularly weight changes, GC regulation, adrenomedullary regulation and the immune and reproductive systems. This paper did not review studies on captive-born animals. Adjustment to captivity has been reported for some physiological systems in some species. However, for many species, permanent alterations to physiology may occur with captivity. For example, captive animals may have elevated GCs and/or reduced reproductive capacity compared to free-living animals even after months in captivity. Full adjustment to captivity may occur only in some species, and may be dependent on time of year or other variables. We discuss some of the methods that can be used to reduce chronic captivity stress.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - L Michael Romero
- Department of Biology, 200 College Ave. Tufts University, Medford, MA 02155 USA
- Corresponding author: Department of Biology, Medford, MA 02155, USA.
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10
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Belin L, Formanek L, Heyraud C, Hausberger M, Henry L. Influence of early experience on processing 2D threatening pictures by European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris). Anim Cogn 2018; 21:749-758. [PMID: 30132155 DOI: 10.1007/s10071-018-1207-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Revised: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Laurine Belin
- Univ Rennes, Normandie Univ, CNRS, EthoS (Éthologie animale et humaine) - UMR 6552, F-35000, Rennes, France
| | - Laureline Formanek
- Univ Rennes, Normandie Univ, CNRS, EthoS (Éthologie animale et humaine) - UMR 6552, F-35000, Rennes, France
| | - Christine Heyraud
- Univ Rennes, Normandie Univ, CNRS, EthoS (Éthologie animale et humaine) - UMR 6552, F-35000, Rennes, France
| | - Martine Hausberger
- CNRS, Univ Rennes, Normandie Univ, EthoS (Éthologie animale et humaine) - UMR 6552, F-35380, Paimpont, France
| | - Laurence Henry
- Univ Rennes, Normandie Univ, CNRS, EthoS (Éthologie animale et humaine) - UMR 6552, F-35000, Rennes, France.
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SELECTED OPHTHALMIC PARAMETERS AND POTENTIAL RISK FOR LIGHT-INDUCED CATARACTS IN TWO COLONIES OF CAPTIVE INDIAN FLYING FOXES (PTEROPUS GIGANTEUS). J Zoo Wildl Med 2018. [DOI: 10.1638/2017-0118r1.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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12
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Rose PE, Nash SM, Riley LM. To pace or not to pace? A review of what abnormal repetitive behavior tells us about zoo animal management. J Vet Behav 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2017.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
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13
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Boström JE, Haller NK, Dimitrova M, Ödeen A, Kelber A. The flicker fusion frequency of budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus) revisited. J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol 2016; 203:15-22. [PMID: 27837238 PMCID: PMC5263199 DOI: 10.1007/s00359-016-1130-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Accepted: 11/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
While color vision and spatial resolution have been studied in many bird species, less is known about the temporal aspects of bird vision. High temporal resolution has been described in three species of passerines but it is unknown whether this is specific to passerines, to small actively flying birds, to insectivores or to birds living in bright habitats. Temporal resolution of vision is commonly tested by determining the flicker fusion frequency (FFF), at which the eye can no longer distinguish a flickering light from a constant light of equal intensity at different luminances. Using a food reward, we trained the birds to discriminate a constant light from a flickering light, at four different luminances between 750 and 7500 cd/m2. The highest FFF found in one bird at 3500 cd/m2 was 93 Hz. Three birds had higher FFF (82 Hz) at 7500 cd/m2 than at 3500 cd/m2. Six human subjects had lower FFF than the birds at 1500 but similar FFF at 750 cd/m2. These results indicate that high temporal resolution is not a common trait for all small and active birds living in bright light habitats. Whether it is typical for passerines or for insectivorous birds remains to be tested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jannika E Boström
- Department of Ecology, Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18D, 75236, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Nicola K Haller
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 35, 22362, Lund, Sweden
| | - Marina Dimitrova
- Department of Ecology, Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18D, 75236, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anders Ödeen
- Department of Ecology, Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18D, 75236, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Almut Kelber
- Department of Biology, Lund University, Sölvegatan 35, 22362, Lund, Sweden.
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EVALUATION OF POTENTIAL RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH CATARACT IN CAPTIVE MACARONI (EUDYPTES CHRYSOLOPHUS) AND ROCKHOPPER PENGUINS (EUDYPTES CHRYSOCOME). J Zoo Wildl Med 2016; 47:806-819. [PMID: 27691963 DOI: 10.1638/2015-0252.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Complete ophthalmic examinations were performed on 160 Macaroni penguins ( Eudyptes chrysolophus ) and 90 Rockhopper penguins ( Eudyptes chrysocome ) at eight North American zoological institutions. Cataract prevalence in the Macaroni population was 46.5% (n = 74) of penguins and 42.3% (135/319) of eyes. Cataract prevalence in the Rockhopper population was 45.5% (n = 40) of penguins and 40.6% (73/180) of eyes. The mean age of Macaroni penguins without ocular disease was 7.4 ± 5.8 yr, while that of Rockhoppers was 9.8 ± 6.4 yr. Risk factors for cataract were examined through husbandry surveys completed by each institution and by evaluation of light intensity and ultraviolet (UV) light measurements acquired in each penguin exhibit. Risk factors associated with cataract in Macaroni penguins included age, dietary smelt, hand-feeding, and fluorescent exhibit lighting. Risk factors associated with cataract in Rockhopper penguins included age, dietary capelin, increasing population density, and increasing length of minimum photoperiod. Factors associated with decreased odds of cataract in Macaroni penguins included saltwater pool, monitoring of water quality for salinity, pH, and alkalinity; use of water additives; presence of pool filtration and sterilization systems; use of metal halide lightbulbs; increasing light intensity; and UV spectrum lighting. Factors associated with decreased odds of cataract in Rockhoppers included dietary herring and krill, increasing exhibit land area, pool temperature monitoring, increasing maximum photoperiod, and increasing minimum UV light.
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15
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Boström JE, Dimitrova M, Canton C, Håstad O, Qvarnström A, Ödeen A. Ultra-Rapid Vision in Birds. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0151099. [PMID: 26990087 PMCID: PMC4798572 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0151099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2016] [Accepted: 02/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Flying animals need to accurately detect, identify and track fast-moving objects and these behavioral requirements are likely to strongly select for abilities to resolve visual detail in time. However, evidence of highly elevated temporal acuity relative to non-flying animals has so far been confined to insects while it has been missing in birds. With behavioral experiments on three wild passerine species, blue tits, collared and pied flycatchers, we demonstrate temporal acuities of vision far exceeding predictions based on the sizes and metabolic rates of these birds. This implies a history of strong natural selection on temporal resolution. These birds can resolve alternating light-dark cycles at up to 145 Hz (average: 129, 127 and 137, respectively), which is ca. 50 Hz over the highest frequency shown in any other vertebrate. We argue that rapid vision should confer a selective advantage in many bird species that are ecologically similar to the three species examined in our study. Thus, rapid vision may be a more typical avian trait than the famously sharp vision found in birds of prey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jannika E Boström
- Department of Animal Ecology, Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18D, S-752 36, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Marina Dimitrova
- Department of Animal Ecology, Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18D, S-752 36, Uppsala, Sweden.,Department of Zoology, Stockholm University, S-106 91, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Cindy Canton
- Department of Animal Ecology, Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18D, S-752 36, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Olle Håstad
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 7011, S-750 07, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anna Qvarnström
- Department of Animal Ecology, Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18D, S-752 36, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anders Ödeen
- Department of Animal Ecology, Uppsala University, Norbyvägen 18D, S-752 36, Uppsala, Sweden.,Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 7011, S-750 07, Uppsala, Sweden
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Abstract
The 3Rs--replacement, reduction, and refinement--can be applied to any animal experiment by researchers and other bodies seeking to conduct those studies in as humane a manner as possible. Key to the success of this endeavor is an appreciation of the principles of good experimental design and analysis; these need to be considered in concert before any data is collected. Indeed, many of the principles central to helping achieve the objectives of the 3Rs-such as conducting valid, reliable, and efficient experiments; clearly and transparently reporting findings; and ensuring that an appreciation and understanding of animal welfare plays a central role in laboratory practice-are to the betterment of research per se.
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Inger R, Bennie J, Davies TW, Gaston KJ. Potential biological and ecological effects of flickering artificial light. PLoS One 2014; 9:e98631. [PMID: 24874801 PMCID: PMC4038456 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0098631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2014] [Accepted: 05/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Organisms have evolved under stable natural lighting regimes, employing cues from these to govern key ecological processes. However, the extent and density of artificial lighting within the environment has increased recently, causing widespread alteration of these regimes. Indeed, night-time electric lighting is known significantly to disrupt phenology, behaviour, and reproductive success, and thence community composition and ecosystem functioning. Until now, most attention has focussed on effects of the occurrence, timing, and spectral composition of artificial lighting. Little considered is that many types of lamp do not produce a constant stream of light but a series of pulses. This flickering light has been shown to have detrimental effects in humans and other species. Whether a species is likely to be affected will largely be determined by its visual temporal resolution, measured as the critical fusion frequency. That is the frequency at which a series of light pulses are perceived as a constant stream. Here we use the largest collation to date of critical fusion frequencies, across a broad range of taxa, to demonstrate that a significant proportion of species can detect such flicker in widely used lamps. Flickering artificial light thus has marked potential to produce ecological effects that have not previously been considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Inger
- Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Jonathan Bennie
- Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas W. Davies
- Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin J. Gaston
- Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn, Cornwall, United Kingdom
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Healy K, McNally L, Ruxton GD, Cooper N, Jackson AL. Metabolic rate and body size are linked with perception of temporal information. Anim Behav 2013; 86:685-696. [PMID: 24109147 PMCID: PMC3791410 DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2013.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2013] [Revised: 03/11/2013] [Accepted: 06/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Body size and metabolic rate both fundamentally constrain how species interact with their environment, and hence ultimately affect their niche. While many mechanisms leading to these constraints have been explored, their effects on the resolution at which temporal information is perceived have been largely overlooked. The visual system acts as a gateway to the dynamic environment and the relative resolution at which organisms are able to acquire and process visual information is likely to restrict their ability to interact with events around them. As both smaller size and higher metabolic rates should facilitate rapid behavioural responses, we hypothesized that these traits would favour perception of temporal change over finer timescales. Using critical flicker fusion frequency, the lowest frequency of flashing at which a flickering light source is perceived as constant, as a measure of the maximum rate of temporal information processing in the visual system, we carried out a phylogenetic comparative analysis of a wide range of vertebrates that supported this hypothesis. Our results have implications for the evolution of signalling systems and predator–prey interactions, and, combined with the strong influence that both body mass and metabolism have on a species' ecological niche, suggest that time perception may constitute an important and overlooked dimension of niche differentiation. Animals vary in their ability to perceive changes in their environment visually. Temporal perception can be quantified using critical flicker fusion (CFF). High CFF indicates an ability to perceive rapid changes in the visual field. We show that high metabolism and small body size are associated with high CFF. We argue that these findings have both ecological and evolutionary implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Healy
- Department of Zoology, School of Natural Sciences, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland ; Trinity Centre for Biodiversity Research, Trinity College Dublin, Ireland
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Ross MR, Gillespie KL, Hopper LM, Bloomsmith MA, Maple TL. Differential preference for ultraviolet light among captive birds from three ecological habitats. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2013.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Using electroretinograms to assess flicker fusion frequency in domestic hens Gallus gallus domesticus. Vision Res 2012; 62:125-33. [PMID: 22521657 DOI: 10.1016/j.visres.2012.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2011] [Revised: 03/16/2012] [Accepted: 04/04/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The assessment of flicker fusion frequency (FFF), the stimulus frequency at which a flickering light stimulus can no longer be resolved and appears continuous, and critical flicker fusion frequency (CFF; the highest frequency at any light intensity that an observer can resolve flicker) are useful methods for comparing temporal resolution capabilities between animals. Behavioural experiments have found that average CFFs in domestic chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus) are in the range of ca. 75-87 Hz, measured in response to full spectrum (i.e. white light plus UV) stimuli. In order to examine whether the chicken retina is able to detect flicker at higher frequencies, we used electroretinograms (ERGs) to assess FFF/CFF in adult hens from two commercial genotypes, Lohmann Selected Leghorns (LSLs) and Lohmann Browns (LBs). ERGs were recorded in response to flickering light at ten full spectrum light intensities ranging from 0.7 to 2740 cd m(-2). Two methods were used to determine FFF/CFF from the ERG recordings and these methods yielded very similar results, with average FFF ranging from ca. 20Hz at 0.7 cd m(-2) to an average CFF of ca. 105 Hz at 2740 cd m(-2). In some individuals, CFFs of 118-119 Hz were recorded. The Intensity/FFF (I/FFF) curves are double-branched with a break point representing the rod-cone transition occurring between 2.5 and 5.9 cd m(-2). No significant differences in the I/FFF curves were found between the two genotypes. At stimulus light intensities >250 cd m(-2), the ERG-derived FFF and CFF values are all higher than those from behavioural studies using the same stimuli. Although hens do not appear to be able to consciously perceive flicker above approximately 90 Hz, the finding that the ERG responses are able to remain in phase with light flickering at frequencies >100 Hz means that the retinae of domestic poultry housed in artificial light conditions may be able to resolve flicker from fluorescent lamps. As range of detrimental effects have been reported in humans as a result of exposure to such "invisible flicker", the possibility exists that flicker from fluorescent lamps also acts as stressor in domesticated birds.
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Evans JE, Smith EL, Bennett AT, Cuthill IC, Buchanan KL. Short-term physiological and behavioural effects of high- versus low-frequency fluorescent light on captive birds. Anim Behav 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2011.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Behavioural assessment of flicker fusion frequency in chicken Gallus gallus domesticus. Vision Res 2011; 51:1324-32. [PMID: 21527269 DOI: 10.1016/j.visres.2011.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2011] [Revised: 04/05/2011] [Accepted: 04/11/2011] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
To interact with its visual environment, an organism needs to perceive objects in both space and time. High temporal resolution is hence important to the fitness of diurnally active animals, not least highly active aerial species such as birds. However, temporal resolution, as assessed by flicker fusion frequency (FFF; the stimulus frequency at which a flickering light stimulus can no longer be resolved and appears continuous) or critical flicker fusion frequency (CFF; the highest flicker fusion frequency at any light intensity) has rarely been assessed in birds. In order to further our understanding of temporal resolution as a function of light intensity in birds we used behavioural experiments with domestic chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus) from an old game breed 'Gammalsvensk dvärghöna' (which is morphologically and behaviourally similar to the wildtype ancestor, the red jungle fowl, G. gallus), to generate an 'Intensity/FFF curve' (I/FFF curve) across full spectrum light intensities ranging from 0.2 to 2812 cd m⁻². The I/FFF curve is double-branched, resembling that of other chordates with a duplex retina of both rods and cones. Assuming that the branches represent rod and cone mediated responses respectively, the break point between them places the transition between scotopic and photopic vision at between 0.8 and 1.9 cd m⁻². Average FFF ranged from 19.8 Hz at the lowest light intensity to a CFF 87.0 Hz at 1375 cd m⁻². FFF dropped slightly at the highest light intensity. There was some individual variation with certain birds displaying CFFs of 90-100 Hz. The FFF values demonstrated by this non-selected breed appear to be considerably higher than other behaviourally derived FFF values for similar stimuli reported for white and brown commercial laying hens, indicating that the domestication process might have influenced temporal resolution in chicken.
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Fernández-Juricic E, Gall MD, Dolan T, O’Rourke C, Thomas S, Lynch JR. Visual systems and vigilance behaviour of two ground-foraging avian prey species: white-crowned sparrows and California towhees. Anim Behav 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anbehav.2010.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Processing of transient signals in the visual system of the European starling (Sturnus vulgaris) and humans. Vision Res 2011; 51:21-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.visres.2010.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2010] [Revised: 07/27/2010] [Accepted: 09/17/2010] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Stereotyping starlings are more ‘pessimistic’. Anim Cogn 2010; 13:721-31. [DOI: 10.1007/s10071-010-0323-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2009] [Revised: 03/10/2010] [Accepted: 04/21/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Brilot BO, Asher L, Feenders G, Bateson M. Quantification of abnormal repetitive behaviour in captive European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris). Behav Processes 2009; 82:256-64. [PMID: 19622388 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2009.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2009] [Revised: 07/10/2009] [Accepted: 07/10/2009] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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The effects of cage volume and cage shape on the condition and behaviour of captive European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris). Appl Anim Behav Sci 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2008.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Asher L, Bateson M. Use and husbandry of captive European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) in scientific research: a review of current practice. Lab Anim 2008; 42:111-26. [PMID: 18435870 DOI: 10.1258/la.2007.007006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Summary We reviewed the use of captive European starlings ( Sturnus vulgaris) in scientific research published between 2000 and 2004. We estimated the numbers of birds used and documented their origin and the range of husbandry regimes employed with the aim of comparing current practice with the new European guidelines for husbandry of laboratory animals. Over the five-year period, 106 primary articles report the use of an estimated total of 2490 captive starlings. The majority of birds were caught from the wild either as adults or fledglings, and only 3% were hand-reared from chicks. There was considerable variation in husbandry. In the majority of cases, standards fell below those currently recommended as best practice in the UK and cited in new European guidelines. The median volume of home cages employed was 0.42 m3 (0.13–5.1 m3, interquartile range), whereas current recommendations suggest a minimum of 1.0 m3 for a singly-housed bird. The median volume of space allowed per bird was 0.13 m3/bird (0.08–1.05 m3/bird, Q1–Q3), whereas current recommendations suggest a minimum of 0.33 m3/bird. Only 27% of the articles mentioned providing any form of environmental enrichment for birds in their home cages. We recommend that more research be conducted into the welfare of starlings to inform legislation and guidelines, and thus maximize the welfare of captive animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Asher
- Epidemiology Division, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Campus, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Melissa Bateson
- School of Biology and Psychology, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Welfare and mate choice in zebra finches: effect of handling regime and presence of cover. Anim Welf 2008. [DOI: 10.1017/s0962728600031936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
AbstractMuch attention has been focused, quite rightly, on the welfare of laboratory rodents and farm animals but certain other groups have been less well represented in welfare research. Small birds, for example, are often kept as pets and used in a wide variety of behavioural and physiological experiments where ‘best’ housing conditions are based on advice from experienced keepers as opposed to being tested experimentally. We investigated the effects of two husbandry conditions on the welfare of captive zebra finches: a) optional cover and b) rewarded handling versus random rewards. As a correlate of welfare in the four conditions (cover + reward, cover, reward, nothing), we recorded the time to settle and perform normal behaviours after an experimenter entered the room throughout the study (ie habituation to disturbance). In addition, we measured female preference for males in the four conditions to see whether welfare situation affected attractiveness as a mate. Birds in the two conditions where a reward was provided settled most quickly; and their settling time decreased across the study. Birds provided with cover alone became more disturbed by the entry of the experimenter as the study progressed. However, the birds taking longest on average to settle were those in cages with no cover and no reward. Females preferred males in the reward conditions as mates, either due to the fact that these males settled more quickly or because less-stressed males are more attractive in some other way. Thus, rewarding birds after disturbance is an effective and simple way to improve habituation to handling and human presence. In addition, these birds are more attractive to females, implying that males more habituated to captivity may be preferred as mates. Provision of cover may help under certain circumstances, but appears paradoxically to lead to increased fearfulness over time under the conditions studied here.
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