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Antonio ES, Fraga RE, Silva JG. Viral Diagnosis in Psittacine Birds: A Scientometric and Systematic Review of 47 Years. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:1546. [PMID: 38891593 PMCID: PMC11171333 DOI: 10.3390/ani14111546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The first reports of viruses in psittacine birds date back to the early 1970s. Here, we elucidate the differences among these previous studies and the advances achieved. The objective of this study was to carry out a comprehensive review using both scientometric and systematic methods to analyze the evolution of published studies on viruses in psittacine birds up to 2022. The search descriptors "virus", "diagnosis", and "Psittaciformes" were used to find the articles of interest for this study. A total of 118 articles were manually selected, and the scientometric data were organized using the software VOSviewer® version 1.6.18. The present review revealed that: (i) on average, 2.5 articles/year on the diagnosis of viral infection in psittacine birds were published since 1975; (ii) the most productive research groups are concentrated in three countries: Australia, the United States, and Germany; (iii) the most important virus in psittacine birds is the Circovirus, which causes psittacine beak and feather disease; (iv) the diagnostic method of choice is polymerase chain reaction (PCR); and (v) the most studied psittacine birds were those in the Psittacidae family that were kept in captivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edma Santos Antonio
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Genética e Biologia Molecular, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Campus Soane Nazaré de Andrade, Ilhéus 45662-900, BA, Brazil;
| | - Ricardo Evangelista Fraga
- Instituto Multidisciplinar em Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Campus Anísio Teixeira, Vitória da Conquista 45029-094, BA, Brazil;
| | - Janisete Gomes Silva
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Genética e Biologia Molecular, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Campus Soane Nazaré de Andrade, Ilhéus 45662-900, BA, Brazil;
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2
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van Zeeland YRA, Schoemaker NJ, Lumeij JT. Contrafreeloading Indicating the Behavioural Need to Forage in Healthy and Feather Damaging Grey Parrots. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2635. [PMID: 37627426 PMCID: PMC10451555 DOI: 10.3390/ani13162635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Contrafreeloading (CFL) is a concept that describes the preference of an animal to work for food even when identical food is freely available, and reflects an intrinsic motivation to engage in foraging-related activities. However, altered brain neurochemistry, which can be induced by chronic exposure to a suboptimal living environment, may affect this intrinsic motivation in animals with abnormal repetitive behaviours (ARBs), including parrots with feather damaging behaviour. To determine whether this was the case, we evaluated CFL activity in healthy (n = 11) and feather damaging (n = 10) Grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus) by offering them a free choice to obtain identical food from a food bowl or from a foraging device. Differences in CFL activity were observed, with feather damaging Grey parrots displaying less CFL (as indicated by shorter foraging times and lower amounts of food consumed from the foraging devices) compared to healthy conspecifics, indicating altered 'motivation' and time allocation, for which the underlying mechanism needs to be clarified further. Nevertheless, despite the variable level, all birds displayed CFL, which, together with a seemingly positive correlation between CFL activity and the plumage condition of the birds, suggests that parrots are intrinsically motivated to forage and highlights the importance of providing foraging opportunities to captive parrots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne R. A. van Zeeland
- Division of Zoological Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
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3
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Kliphuis S, Manet MWE, Goerlich VC, Nordquist RE, Vernooij H, Brand HVD, Tuyttens FAM, Rodenburg TB. Early-life interventions to prevent feather pecking and reduce fearfulness in laying hens. Poult Sci 2023; 102:102801. [PMID: 37343352 PMCID: PMC10404761 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.102801] [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: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe feather pecking, the pulling out of feathers of conspecifics, is a major welfare issue in laying hens. Possible underlying causes are fearfulness and lack of foraging opportunities. Because early life is a crucial stage in behavioral development, adapting the incubation and rearing environment to the birds' needs may reduce fearfulness and prevent the development of feather pecking. In a 2 × 2 factorial design study, we investigated whether a green light-dark cycle throughout incubation, which resembles natural incubation circumstances more than the standard dark incubation, and foraging enrichment with live larvae during rearing reduce fearfulness and feather pecking and increase foraging behavior of laying hen pullets from an early age onwards. In this 2-batch experiment, 1,100 ISA Brown eggs were incubated under either 0 h of light/24 h of darkness or 12 h of green LED light/12 h of darkness. After hatching, 400 female chicks (200 per batch) were housed in 44 pens (8-10 chicks per pen). During the entire rearing phase (0-17 wk of age), half of the pens received black soldier fly larvae in a food puzzle as foraging enrichment. We assessed fear of novel objects and humans, feather pecking, plumage condition, foraging behavior, and recovery time after a 3-fold vaccination (acute stressor). A slight increase in the number of foraging bouts was only seen with larvae provisioning (rate ratio 1.19, 95% CI 1.02-1.29, P = 0.008). Neither lighted incubation nor larvae provisioning affected fearfulness, feather pecking, plumage condition or recovery time after vaccination. In conclusion, the present study showed no effects of light during incubation and minor effects of foraging enrichment during rearing on the behavior of laying hen pullets. Further research is recommended on other welfare aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saskia Kliphuis
- Animals in Science and Society, Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Maëva W E Manet
- Animals in Science and Society, Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Vivian C Goerlich
- Animals in Science and Society, Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Rebecca E Nordquist
- Animals in Science and Society, Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Hans Vernooij
- Animals in Science and Society, Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Henry van den Brand
- Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Frank A M Tuyttens
- Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Merelbeke, Belgium; Department of Veterinary and Biosciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - T Bas Rodenburg
- Animals in Science and Society, Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Adaptation Physiology Group, Department of Animal Sciences, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
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4
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Tallo-Parra O, Salas M, Manteca X. Zoo Animal Welfare Assessment: Where Do We Stand? Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:1966. [PMID: 37370476 DOI: 10.3390/ani13121966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Zoological institutions, such as zoos and aquariums, have made animal welfare a top priority, as it is not only a moral obligation but also crucial for fulfilling their roles in education and conservation. There is a need for science-based tools to assess and monitor animal welfare in these settings. However, assessing the welfare of zoo animals is challenging due to the diversity of species and lack of knowledge on their specific needs. This review aims to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of existing methodologies for assessing zoo animal welfare through: (1) A critical analysis of the main approaches to zoo animal welfare assessment; (2) A description of the most relevant animal-based welfare indicators for zoo animals with a particular focus on behavioural and physiological indicators; and (3) An identification of areas that require further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oriol Tallo-Parra
- School of Veterinary Science, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Campus UAB, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
- Animal Welfare Education Centre, AWEC Advisors SL, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Campus UAB, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marina Salas
- Antwerp Zoo Centre for Research and Conservation, Royal Zoological Society of Antwerp, Koningin Astridplein 20-26, 2018 Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - Xavier Manteca
- School of Veterinary Science, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Campus UAB, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
- Animal Welfare Education Centre, AWEC Advisors SL, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Campus UAB, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
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5
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Quantifying Acute Behavioral Reactions of Bali Mynas (Leucopsar rothschildi) to Environmental and Progressively Challenging Enrichment. JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGICAL AND BOTANICAL GARDENS 2023. [DOI: 10.3390/jzbg4010017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Animals use specific behaviors and skills to overcome challenges and access resources. Environmental enrichment is provided to animals in human care to both promote species-appropriate behaviors and reduce undesired behaviors. Feather pecking in birds is an undesired behavior without a clear cause. The Saint Louis Zoo houses three pairs of young Bali mynas (Leucopsar rothschildi) who pluck neck feathers from conspecifics. To reduce this behavior, animal care staff presented the birds with seven enrichment items from four categories, presenting each item twice. The enrichment included a modifiable, progressively challenging bamboo tube device at multiple levels of difficulty. While plucking was not affected by any enrichment item, we observed significant increases in locomotion and decreases in autopreening, allogrooming, and head bobbing. Leafy greens produced the greatest changes when compared to other enrichment types. Overall engagement with the progressively challenging enrichment increased with the change from the first to the second level of difficulty, and interaction with the device was highest for the third and most difficult version. These increases suggest that no habituation to the progressively challenging device occurred, while a possible neophobic effect declined with multiple uses and increased familiarity.
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Bertin A, Mulot B, Nowak R, Blache MC, Love S, Arnold M, Pinateau A, Arnould C, Lansade L. Captive Blue-and-yellow macaws (Ara ararauna) show facial indicators of positive affect when reunited with their caregiver. Behav Processes 2023; 206:104833. [PMID: 36693578 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2023.104833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
In mammals, human-animal bonding is recognized as a source of positive affect for companion or farm animals. Because this remains unexplored in birds, we investigated captive parrots' perspective of the human-animal relationship. We used a classical separation-reunion paradigm and predicted that variations in parrots' facial displays and behaviours would indicate their appraisal of the relationship. The test was divided into three phases of two minutes each: the bird was placed in an unfamiliar environment with a familiar caregiver (union), then the bird was left alone (separation) and finally, the caregiver returned (reunion). The test was repeated 10 times for each bird and video recorded in order to analyze their behaviour. The data show significantly higher crown and nape feather heights, higher redness of the skin and higher frequency of contact-seeking behaviours during the union and reunion phases than during the separation phase during which they expressed long distance contact calls. We observed the expression of eye pinning during the union and reunion phases in one out of five macaws. We argue that variation in facial displays provides indicators of parrot's positive appraisal of the caretaker presence. Our results broaden the scope for further studies on parrots' expression of their subjective feelings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Bertin
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France.
| | - Baptiste Mulot
- ZooParc de Beauval & Beauval Nature, Saint-Aignan, France.
| | - Raymond Nowak
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France.
| | | | - Scott Love
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France.
| | | | | | - Cécile Arnould
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France.
| | - Léa Lansade
- CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, PRC, 37380 Nouzilly, France.
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7
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Divín D, Goméz Samblas M, Kuttiyarthu Veetil N, Voukali E, Świderská Z, Krajzingrová T, Těšický M, Beneš V, Elleder D, Bartoš O, Vinkler M. Cannabinoid receptor 2 evolutionary gene loss makes parrots more susceptible to neuroinflammation. Proc Biol Sci 2022; 289:20221941. [PMID: 36475439 PMCID: PMC9727682 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2022.1941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In vertebrates, cannabinoids modulate neuroimmune interactions through two cannabinoid receptors (CNRs) conservatively expressed in the brain (CNR1, syn. CB1) and in the periphery (CNR2, syn. CB2). Our comparative genomic analysis indicates several evolutionary losses in the CNR2 gene that is involved in immune regulation. Notably, we show that the CNR2 gene pseudogenized in all parrots (Psittaciformes). This CNR2 gene loss occurred because of chromosomal rearrangements. Our positive selection analysis suggests the absence of any specific molecular adaptations in parrot CNR1 that would compensate for the CNR2 loss in the modulation of the neuroimmune interactions. Using transcriptomic data from the brains of birds with experimentally induced sterile inflammation we highlight possible functional effects of such a CNR2 gene loss. We compare the expression patterns of CNR and neuroinflammatory markers in CNR2-deficient parrots (represented by the budgerigar, Melopsittacus undulatus and five other parrot species) with CNR2-intact passerines (represented by the zebra finch, Taeniopygia guttata). Unlike in passerines, stimulation with lipopolysaccharide resulted in neuroinflammation in the parrots linked with a significant upregulation of expression in proinflammatory cytokines (including interleukin 1 beta (IL1B) and 6 (IL6)) in the brain. Our results indicate the functional importance of the CNR2 gene loss for increased sensitivity to brain inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Divín
- Faculty of Science, Department of Zoology, Charles University, Viničná 7, Prague 128 44, Czech Republic
| | - Mercedes Goméz Samblas
- Faculty of Science, Department of Zoology, Charles University, Viničná 7, Prague 128 44, Czech Republic
| | - Nithya Kuttiyarthu Veetil
- Faculty of Science, Department of Zoology, Charles University, Viničná 7, Prague 128 44, Czech Republic
| | - Eleni Voukali
- Faculty of Science, Department of Zoology, Charles University, Viničná 7, Prague 128 44, Czech Republic
| | - Zuzana Świderská
- Faculty of Science, Department of Zoology, Charles University, Viničná 7, Prague 128 44, Czech Republic
| | - Tereza Krajzingrová
- Faculty of Science, Department of Zoology, Charles University, Viničná 7, Prague 128 44, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Těšický
- Faculty of Science, Department of Zoology, Charles University, Viničná 7, Prague 128 44, Czech Republic
| | - Vladimír Beneš
- Genomics Core Facility, European Molecular Biology Laboratory Heidelberg, Meyerhofstrasse 1, 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Daniel Elleder
- Institute of Molecular Genetics, Czech Academy of Sciences, Vídeňská 1083, 142 20 Prague 4, Czech Republic
| | - Oldřich Bartoš
- Military Health Institute, Military Medical Agency, Tychonova 1, 160 01 Prague 6, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Vinkler
- Faculty of Science, Department of Zoology, Charles University, Viničná 7, Prague 128 44, Czech Republic
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8
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Franzone V, Ramos GDAP, de Lima Kascher LK, de Azevedo CS, Sant’Anna AC. Flight capacity and human aversion in captive Amazon parrots: Related factors and the effects of pre-releasing training. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2022.105772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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9
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Zadravec M, Račnik J, Slavec B, Ballmann MZ, Kaján GL, Doszpoly A, Zorman-Rojs O, Marhold C, Harrach B. Novel adenoviruses from captive psittacine birds in Slovenia. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2022; 90-91:101902. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2022.101902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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10
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Lewis K, Parker MO, Proops L, McBride SD. Risk factors for stereotypic behaviour in captive ungulates. Proc Biol Sci 2022; 289:20221311. [PMID: 36168756 PMCID: PMC9515623 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2022.1311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Behavioural needs are highly motivated actions critical to a species survival and reproduction. Prolonged restriction of these behaviours can lead to stereotypic behaviours (SB) in captive animals, and this is particularly common in ungulate species. While risk factors for SB have been suggested for some ungulates, no study has integrated these findings to identify which aspects of ungulates' wild behavioural biology and captive husbandry are potential drivers for SB across this clade. We collated SB data from 15 236 individuals across 38 ungulate species from 95 sources, and determined species wild/free-ranging behaviour from 559 additional studies. Bayesian-phylogenetic statistical methods showed that ungulate behavioural needs relating to foraging and mating are particularly affected by captive environments, with promiscuous and browsing species showing the greatest prevalence of SB. Concentrate-only diets and lack of ad libitum feed substrates were also associated with high SB prevalence. This study identifies which ungulates are better suited to captive environments and which species require targeted husbandry, enrichment and breeding protocols in order to meet their behavioural needs. Our approach of applying Bayesian-phylogenetic inference to factors influencing SB within a clade can be used to identify other intrinsic and extrinsic risk factors of reduced animal health and welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Lewis
- Centre for Comparative and Evolutionary Psychology, Department of Psychology, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2UP, UK
| | - Matthew O. Parker
- School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Science, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2UP, UK
| | - Leanne Proops
- Centre for Comparative and Evolutionary Psychology, Department of Psychology, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2UP, UK
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11
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Effects of rearing methods on feather-damaging behavior and corticosterone metabolite excretion in the peach-faced lovebird (Agapornis roseicollis Vieillot). J Vet Behav 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2022.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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12
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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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13
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Mellor EL, Mendl M, Mason G, Davison C, van Zeeland Y, Cuthill IC. Validating owner-reporting of feather condition of pet Psittaciformes using photographs. Anim Welf 2022. [DOI: 10.7120/09627286.31.2.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Reporting of outcome variables by caregivers in welfare studies is commonplace but is open to subjective bias and so requires validation. Biases can occur in either direction: familiarity with an animal allows a deeper insight into welfare problems, but also can lead to reticence in
admitting that an animal in one's care is experiencing problems. Here, we aim to validate owner-reporting of plumage condition of pet parrots, including those with self-inflicted feather-damaging behaviour (FDB), by comparing owners' scores of feather condition with those of two independent
raters, blind to the owners' and each other's assessments. We surveyed pet parrot owners to collect data on basic demographics and feather condition, and requested four standardised photographs of birds. We received 259 responses (17% of the 1,521 people contacted); 78 sets of images of appropriate
quality for assessment by raters were provided. Mean percentage agreement between owners' and raters' scores was mostly fair to substantial using Cohen's kappa; however, raters scored a greater proportion of feather damage than did owners. Overall, our results indicate owner-reporting of feather
condition, including FDB, to be generally reliable and consistent with independent assessment of photographs. As the use of photographs can be limited by image quality, a failure to represent the long-term state of a parrot, and the potential for incorrect recording if assessed without relevant
information (eg on moulting), this evidence that owner-reports can be reliable opens the door for larger-scale surveys of the extent of welfare-relevant problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- EL Mellor
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Langford House, Langford, Bristol BS40 5DU, UK
| | - M Mendl
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Langford House, Langford, Bristol BS40 5DU, UK
| | - G Mason
- College of Biological Science, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - C Davison
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Langford House, Langford, Bristol BS40 5DU, UK
| | - Y van Zeeland
- Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, 3584 CM Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - IC Cuthill
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol Life Sciences Building, 24 Tyndall Avenue, Bristol BS8 1TQ, UK
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14
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Natterson-Horowitz B, Desmarchelier M, Winkler AS, Carabin H. Beyond Zoonoses in One Health: Non-communicable Diseases Across the Animal Kingdom. Front Public Health 2022; 9:807186. [PMID: 35178374 PMCID: PMC8846287 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.807186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- B. Natterson-Horowitz
- Division of Cardiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Department of Human Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Boston, MA, United States
- *Correspondence: B. Natterson-Horowitz
| | - Marion Desmarchelier
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
| | - Andrea Sylvia Winkler
- Department of Neurology, Center for Global Health, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
- Centre for Global Health, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Hélène Carabin
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, École de Santé Publique (ESPUM), Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Groupe de Recherche en Épidémiologie des Zoonoses et Santé Publique (GREZOSP), Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique (CReSP), Montréal, QC, Canada
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15
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Kaplan G. Casting the Net Widely for Change in Animal Welfare: The Plight of Birds in Zoos, Ex Situ Conservation, and Conservation Fieldwork. Animals (Basel) 2021; 12:ani12010031. [PMID: 35011137 PMCID: PMC8749551 DOI: 10.3390/ani12010031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Animal welfare measures have been designed to improve the health and environmental conditions of animals living under human control, for whatever reason. Welfare regulations have evolved also in line with new research insights into the cognitive, affective, and physiological domain of birds, as this paper discusses. This paper casts a critical eye on areas that Animal Welfare regulations have not reached at all, have not gone far enough, or are not regulated or supervised. It identifies the plight of birds living in captivity or being studied in the field, which either by neglect, ignorance, or design are subject to practices and procedures that may not meet basic welfare standards. The paper discusses some profound contradictions in the way we think about birds and their plight in today’s world: marked for extinction on one hand and highly admired as pets on the other; damaging fieldwork on one hand and the aims of conservation on the other. It highlights some common and distressing examples of poor welfare in birds. It also offers some solutions involving simple legislative changes and ways to eliminate some unacceptably low ethical standards in the handling and management of birds. Abstract This paper discusses paradoxes in our relationship to and treatment of birds in captive and conservation contexts. The paper identifies modern and new challenges that arise from declining bird numbers worldwide. Such challenges have partly changed zoos into providers of insurance populations specifically for species at risk of extinction. They have also accelerated fieldwork projects, but by using advanced technological tools and in increasing numbers, contradictorily, they may cause serious harm to the very birds studied for conservation purposes. In practice, very few avian species have any notable protection or guarantee of good treatment. The paper first deals with shortcomings of identifying problematic avian behavior in captive birds. It then brings together specific cases of field studies and captive breeding for conservation in which major welfare deficits are identified. Indeed, the paper argues that avian welfare is now an urgent task. This is not just because of declining bird numbers but because of investment in new technologies in field studies that may have introduced additional stressors and put at risk bird survival. While the paper documents a substantial number of peer-reviewed papers criticizing practices counter to modern welfare standards, they have by and large not led to changes in some practices. Some solutions are suggested that could be readily implemented and, to my knowledge, have never been considered under a welfare model before.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisela Kaplan
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia
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16
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Mellor EL, McDonald Kinkaid HK, Mendl MT, Cuthill IC, van Zeeland YRA, Mason GJ. Nature calls: intelligence and natural foraging style predict poor welfare in captive parrots. Proc Biol Sci 2021; 288:20211952. [PMID: 34610768 PMCID: PMC8493207 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2021.1952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding why some species thrive in captivity, while others struggle to adjust, can suggest new ways to improve animal care. Approximately half of all Psittaciformes, a highly threatened order, live in zoos, breeding centres and private homes. Here, some species are prone to behavioural and reproductive problems that raise conservation and ethical concerns. To identify risk factors, we analysed data on hatching rates in breeding centres (115 species, 10 255 pairs) and stereotypic behaviour (SB) in private homes (50 species, 1378 individuals), using phylogenetic comparative methods (PCMs). Small captive population sizes predicted low hatch rates, potentially due to genetic bottlenecks, inbreeding and low availability of compatible mates. Species naturally reliant on diets requiring substantial handling were most prone to feather-damaging behaviours (e.g. self-plucking), indicating inadequacies in the composition or presentation of feed (often highly processed). Parrot species with relatively large brains were most prone to oral and whole-body SB: the first empirical evidence that intelligence can confer poor captive welfare. Together, results suggest that more naturalistic diets would improve welfare, and that intelligent psittacines need increased cognitive stimulation. These findings should help improve captive parrot care and inspire further PCM research to understand species differences in responses to captivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma L. Mellor
- Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | | | - Innes C. Cuthill
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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17
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Abstract
There are many intersecting aspects to the avicultural management of a captive flock. Extensive knowledge of the natural history of the species kept is key to fulfilling the environmental, social, nutritional, and behavioral requirements of the birds, whether in a mixed- or sole-species aviary. Species compatibility with the environment, climate, and other co-occupants plays a role as well, as does hygiene, good avicultural management, and veterinary involvement and consultation. In understanding and meeting these requirements, optimal health can be maintained through the reduction or elimination of stressors and the maintenance of normal physiologic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen K Rasidi
- Veterinarian, Conservation, Research and Veterinary Services, Jurong Bird Park, Wildlife Reserves Singapore, 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826, Singapore.
| | - Juan Cornejo
- Attractions Development, Mandai Park Development Pte. Ltd, 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826, Singapore
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18
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Pereira VM, Roballo KCS, Silva ANE, Cordeiro JF, Bressan TF, Muller AF, Ercolin ACM, Cirimbeli CF, Hage MCFNS, Carregaro AB, Ambrósio CE. The Use of Bone Marrow-Derived Stem Cells in the Treatment of a Comminuted Tibiotarsal Fracture in a Juvenile Red-legged Seriema ( Cariama cristata). J Avian Med Surg 2021; 34:274-280. [PMID: 33099981 DOI: 10.1647/1082-6742-34.3.274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
An adult red-legged seriema (Cariama cristata) presented with a comminuted fracture of the tibiotarsus and fibula. Surgery was performed, and a type II external fixator, with 2 distal and 2 proximal pins, was used to stabilize the fracture. After a 10-day stabilization period, the bird developed a second fracture on the same bone, proximal to the first fracture site. Another surgery was performed on the seriema similar to the first one. However, in this second surgical procedure a single pin, instead of 2 perpendicular pins, was placed proximally to the fracture site. After the second surgical procedure, bone marrow stem cells (BMSCs) from the seriema's left ulna were collected. Twenty-seven days after the second surgery, the BMSCs were transplanted, into the fracture sites. Twenty-four days after the stem cells were injected into the fractures (51 days after the second surgical procedure), radiographic images revealed healing bone calluses at the fracture sites. The fracture healing was relatively long for this case (a total of 75 days). The addition of bone marrow stem cell therapy to the use of external fixation may have contributed to the healing observed radiographically 24 days after administration; therefore, bone marrow stem cell therapy, in addition to traditional surgical fracture reduction and stabilization, may be a promising therapeutic approach for avian cases with similar injuries and bone anatomy. However, as this is a single case, this therapeutic modality deserves further application and study. Moreover, we suggest modifications in the bone marrow stem cell collection and therapy, which may be useful for future studies and application involving birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vitória M Pereira
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo (USP), Campus da USP13635-900, Pirassununga, SP Brasil
| | - Kelly C S Roballo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo (USP), Campus da USP13635-900, Pirassununga, SP Brasil
| | - André N E Silva
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo (USP), Campus da USP13635-900, Pirassununga, SP Brasil
| | - Jefferson F Cordeiro
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo (USP), Campus da USP13635-900, Pirassununga, SP Brasil
| | - Thais F Bressan
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo (USP), Campus da USP13635-900, Pirassununga, SP Brasil
| | - Alois F Muller
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo (USP), Campus da USP13635-900, Pirassununga, SP Brasil
| | - Anna C M Ercolin
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo (USP), Campus da USP13635-900, Pirassununga, SP Brasil
| | - Carolina F Cirimbeli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo (USP), Campus da USP13635-900, Pirassununga, SP Brasil
| | - Maria C F N S Hage
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo (USP), Campus da USP13635-900, Pirassununga, SP Brasil
| | - Adriano B Carregaro
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo (USP), Campus da USP13635-900, Pirassununga, SP Brasil
| | - Carlos E Ambrósio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of Sao Paulo (USP), Campus da USP13635-900, Pirassununga, SP Brasil,
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19
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Ebisawa K, Nakayama S, Pai C, Kinoshita R, Koie H. Prevalence and risk factors for feather-damaging behavior in psittacine birds: Analysis of a Japanese nationwide survey. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0254610. [PMID: 34260621 PMCID: PMC8279392 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0254610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
A case control study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of feather-damaging behavior and evaluate the correlation with risk factors among pet psittacine birds in Japan. Although feather-damaging behavior among pet parrots is frequently observed in Japan, its prevalence and potential risk factors have not been investigated. Therefore, we conducted an online questionnaire survey on parrot owners throughout Japan to examine regional differences in feather-damaging behavior and associated risk factors. In total, 2,331 valid responses were obtained. The prevalence of feather-damaging behavior was 11.7%, in general agreement with prior studies. The highest prevalence was among Cockatoos (Cacatua spp., etc.; 30.6%), followed by Lovebirds (Agapornis spp.; 24.5%) and African grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus; 23.7%). Multivariate logistic regression was carried out to calculate the adjusted odds ratio (ORadj) for potential risk factors and adjust the confounding of the variables. The odds of feather-damaging behavior were significantly higher for Conures (Aratinga spp., Pyrrhura spp., Thectocercus acuticaudatus, Cyanoliseus patagonus) (ORadj = 2.55, P = 0.005), Pacific parrotlets (Forpus coelestis) (ORadj = 3.96, P < 0.001), African grey parrots (ORadj = 6.74, P < 0.001), Lovebirds (ORadj = 6.79, P < 0.001) and Cockatoos (ORadj = 9.46, P < 0.001) than Budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus), and for young adults (ORadj = 1.81, P = 0.038) and adults (ORadj = 3.17, P < 0.001) than young birds, and for signs of separation anxiety (ORadj = 1.81, P < 0.001). Species, bird age and signs of separation anxiety were significantly higher risk factors for feather-damaging behavior than any other potential risk factors. Our findings, which include broad species diversity, are a good source of data for predicting risk factors for feather-damaging behavior and could be useful in preventing declines in welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazumasa Ebisawa
- College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
- Yokohama Bird Clinic, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Shunya Nakayama
- College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Chungyu Pai
- College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Rie Kinoshita
- College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Koie
- College of Bioresource Sciences, Nihon University, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan
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20
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High and low feather pecking selection lines of laying hens differ in response to a judgment bias test. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2021.105305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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21
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Stevens A, Doneley R, Cogny A, Phillips CJ. The effects of environmental enrichment on the behaviour of cockatiels (Nymphicus hollandicus) in aviaries. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2020.105154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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22
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Dong Y, Karcher DM, Erasmus MA. Self- and conspecific-directed pecking behavior of commercial Pekin ducks. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2021.105223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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23
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Stelow E. Avian Behavior Consultation for Exotic Pet Practitioners. Vet Clin North Am Exot Anim Pract 2021; 24:103-117. [PMID: 33189246 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvex.2020.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Problem behaviors are a leading cause of relinquishment in pet psittacines. Exotic animal practitioners with a good understanding of diagnosis and treatment of common psittacine behavior issues are in a position to enhance the welfare of these birds and their caregivers. Reduced-stress veterinary appointments also lead to less fear and better behavior diagnoses and treatment plans. Every treatment plan focuses on physical and social enrichment, along with behavior modification to treat the motivation behind the diagnosed problem. This article describes how to conduct an appointment that provides the best opportunity for an accurate behavior diagnosis and effective treatment plan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Stelow
- University of California, Davis, 1 Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
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24
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Assessment of laying-bird welfare following acaricidal treatment of a commercial flock naturally infested with the poultry red mite (Dermanyssus gallinae). PLoS One 2020; 15:e0241608. [PMID: 33211741 PMCID: PMC7676655 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0241608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The poultry red mite (PRM), Dermanyssus gallinae, a potential vector of pathogens to animals and humans, causes impaired bird welfare. A study investigated changes in behavioural variables, physiological biomarkers, and health parameters following acaricidal treatment of PRM infestation of laying hens on a commercial farm. Mite traps determined the challenge to 12,700 hens before and after drinking water administration of the acaricide, fluralaner (Exzolt®, 0.5 mg/kg; Weeks 0 and 1). Weekly daytime direct observations and night-time video recordings monitored bird behaviours from Weeks -6 through +6. Blood samples were collected from randomly-selected birds (Weeks -6, -1, and +6). Following treatment, mite count reductions (>99%) were statistically significant (P < 0.0001), as were night-time reductions in the percent of hens showing activity, preening, head scratching (all P < 0.0001), and head shaking (P = 0.0007). Significant daytime reductions were observed in preening and head scratching (both P < 0.0001), head shaking (P = 0.0389), severe feather pecking (P = 0.0002), and aggressive behaviour (P = 0.0165). Post-treatment, comb wounds were significantly reduced (P = 0.0127), and comb colour was significantly improved (P < 0.0001). Heterophil/lymphocyte ratio was significantly reduced at Weeks 1 and 6 (P = 0.0009 and P < 0.0001, respectively). At Week 6, blood corticosterone (P = 0.0041) and total oxidant status (P < 0.0001) were significantly reduced, and haemoglobin and mean corpuscular haemoglobin significantly increased (P < 0.0001). Farm production records indicated that those post-treatment improvements were accompanied by significant reductions in weekly mortality rate (P = 0.0169), and significant recovery in mean weekly egg weights (P < 0.0001) and laying rate (P < 0.0001). The improvements in behavioural variables, physiological biomarkers, and health parameters that were observed following the elimination of PRM on a commercial farm indicate that infestations can be a cause of reduced hen welfare.
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25
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Bertin A, Beraud A, Lansade L, Mulot B, Arnould C. Bill covering and nape feather ruffling as indicators of calm states in the Sulphur-crested cockatoo (Cacatua galerita). Behav Processes 2020; 178:104188. [PMID: 32598901 DOI: 10.1016/j.beproc.2020.104188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Parrots are highly social birds that are recognized for their primate-like cognitive abilities but their way to express emotions remain overlooked. Herein we explored potential facial indicators of emotions in cockatoos. We predicted that facial feather ruffling is an indicator of a cockatoo's emotional state and hypothesized that specific facial feather positions would be present more during positive valence and low arousal situations. We observed feather position on the crest, cheek and nape during the daily routine of a group of five captive, non-breeding, Sulphur-crested cockatoos. The data show that cheek and nape feather ruffling occurred significantly more during activities associated with low arousal levels and positive valence such as maintenance behaviours, positive and quiet social contact and resting. Our data suggest that ruffling feathers over the bill (i.e. cheek feather ruffling) and nape ruffling may provide visual indicators of calm/relaxed states in cockatoos. Subtle movement of facial feathers may be an effective close-ranged visual signal to communicate birds' affective states or their intention to engage in specific activities. This work provides a novel approach to assessing the positive welfare of captive cockatoos and to understanding emotional communication in non-mammalian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Bertin
- PRC, CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, 37380, Nouzilly, France.
| | - Arielle Beraud
- PRC, CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, 37380, Nouzilly, France; ZooParc de Beauval & Beauval Nature, Saint-Aignan, France.
| | - Léa Lansade
- PRC, CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, 37380, Nouzilly, France.
| | - Baptiste Mulot
- ZooParc de Beauval & Beauval Nature, Saint-Aignan, France.
| | - Cécile Arnould
- PRC, CNRS, IFCE, INRAE, Université de Tours, 37380, Nouzilly, France.
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26
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Overgaauw PA, Vinke CM, van Hagen MA, Lipman LJ. A One Health Perspective on the Human-Companion Animal Relationship with Emphasis on Zoonotic Aspects. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E3789. [PMID: 32471058 PMCID: PMC7312520 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17113789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Over time the human-animal bond has been changed. For instance, the role of pets has changed from work animals (protecting houses, catching mice) to animals with a social function, giving companionship. Pets can be important for the physical and mental health of their owners but may also transmit zoonotic infections. The One Health initiative is a worldwide strategy for expanding collaborations in all aspects of health care for humans, animals, and the environment. However, in One Health communications the role of particularly dogs and cats is often underestimated. OBJECTIVE Evaluation of positive and negative One Health issues of the human-companion animal relationship with a focus on zoonotic aspects of cats and dogs in industrialized countries. METHOD Literature review. RESULTS Pets undoubtedly have a positive effect on human health, while owners are increasing aware of pet's health and welfare. The changing attitude of humans with regard to pets and their environment can also lead to negative effects such as changes in feeding practices, extreme breeding, and behavioral problems, and anthropozoonoses. For the human, there may be a higher risk of the transmission of zoonotic infections due to trends such as sleeping with pets, allowing pets to lick the face or wounds, bite accidents, keeping exotic animals, the importation of rescue dogs, and soil contact. CONCLUSIONS One Health issues need frequently re-evaluated as the close human-animal relationship with pet animals can totally differ compared to decennia ago. Because of the changed human-companion animal bond, recommendations regarding responsible pet-ownership, including normal hygienic practices, responsible breeding, feeding, housing, and mental and physical challenges conforming the biology of the animal are required. Education can be performed by vets and physicians as part of the One Health concept.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul A.M. Overgaauw
- Department Population Health Sciences, Division of Veterinary Public Health, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80178, 3508 TD Utrecht, The Netherlands;
| | - Claudia M. Vinke
- Unit Animals in Science & Society, Animal Behaviour, Department Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80166, 3508 TD Utrecht, The Netherlands; (C.M.V.); (M.A.E.v.H.)
| | - Marjan A.E. van Hagen
- Unit Animals in Science & Society, Animal Behaviour, Department Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80166, 3508 TD Utrecht, The Netherlands; (C.M.V.); (M.A.E.v.H.)
| | - Len J.A. Lipman
- Department Population Health Sciences, Division of Veterinary Public Health, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80178, 3508 TD Utrecht, The Netherlands;
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27
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Vidal AC, Roldan M, Christofoletti MD, Tanaka Y, Galindo DJ, Duarte JMB. Stress in captive Blue-fronted parrots ( Amazona aestiva): the animalists' tale. CONSERVATION PHYSIOLOGY 2019; 7:coz097. [PMID: 31832195 PMCID: PMC6899226 DOI: 10.1093/conphys/coz097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Revised: 09/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Understanding stress physiology is crucial for species management because high levels of stress can reduce reproduction and the individual's ability to face threats to survive. One of the most popular methods for non-invasive monitoring of animal endocrine status is the glucocorticoid (GC) metabolite measurements, which can provide important information about how animals are affected by their surrounding environment. Here, we carried out the biological validation of corticosterone enzyme immunoassays (EIAs), which together with a cortisol EIA was used to quantified the concentrations of urofaecal GC metabolites (uGCMs) in wild and captive Blue-fronted amazon parrots (Amazona aestiva). Urofaecal GC concentrations were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in free-living parrots (157.9 ± 18.5 ng cortisol/g and 61.14 ± 23.5 ng corticosterone/g dry urofaecal sample) than in those kept in captivity, which showed the comparable levels of GC metabolites independently of the management system applied. The higher uGCM levels obtained in the wild population point to an adaptive response for survival and species propagation in a more challenging environment, in comparison with captive animals. Furthermore, the lower uGCM concentrations in captive parrots may indicate an adaptive capacity of the species A. aestiva to captivity and its potential as a legal pet. The corticosterone EIA applied in this study proved to be an effective technique for the adrenocortical activity monitoring in this species. We discuss our findings considering the management and destiny given to wild-caught birds that are kept in confinement or returned to nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Chesna Vidal
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, Deer Research and Conservation Center (NUPECCE), Jaboticabal, São Paulo 14884-900, Brazil
| | - Mar Roldan
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, Deer Research and Conservation Center (NUPECCE), Jaboticabal, São Paulo 14884-900, Brazil
| | - Maurício Durante Christofoletti
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, Deer Research and Conservation Center (NUPECCE), Jaboticabal, São Paulo 14884-900, Brazil
| | - Yuki Tanaka
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, Deer Research and Conservation Center (NUPECCE), Jaboticabal, São Paulo 14884-900, Brazil
| | - David Javier Galindo
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, Deer Research and Conservation Center (NUPECCE), Jaboticabal, São Paulo 14884-900, Brazil
| | - José Maurício Barbanti Duarte
- São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, Deer Research and Conservation Center (NUPECCE), Jaboticabal, São Paulo 14884-900, Brazil
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28
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Fangmeier ML, Burns AL, Melfi VA, Meade J. Foraging enrichment alleviates oral repetitive behaviors in captive red-tailed black cockatoos (Calyptorhynchus banksii). Zoo Biol 2019; 39:3-12. [PMID: 31682017 DOI: 10.1002/zoo.21520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2018] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The relationship between inadequate foraging opportunities and the expression of oral repetitive behaviors has been well documented in many production animal species. However, this relationship has been less-well examined in zoo-housed animals, particularly avian species. The expression of oral repetitive behavior may embody a frustrated foraging response, and may therefore be alleviated with the provision of foraging enrichment. In this study, we examined the effect of different foraging-based enrichment items on a group of captive red-tailed black cockatoos who were previously observed performing oral repetitive behavior. A group of six cockatoos were presented with five foraging enrichment conditions (no enrichment (control), sliced cucumber, fresh grass, baffle cages, and millet discs). Baseline activity budgets were established over a 10-day preintervention period and interventions were then presented systematically over a 25-day experimental period. This study demonstrated that the provision of foraging interventions effectively increased the median percentage of time spent foraging compared to control conditions (range, 5.0-31.7% across interventions vs. 5.0% for control), with two of the interventions; grass and millet discs, significantly decreasing the expression of oral repetitive behaviors (control = 16.6 vs. 8.3% for both grass and millet discs). Finally, a rapid-scoring method utilized by zookeepers during the study proved to be a useful proxy for the amount of time the cockatoos spent interacting with the foraging interventions and overall time spent foraging.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alicia L Burns
- Taronga Conservation Society Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Vicky A Melfi
- Taronga Conservation Society Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Hartpury College, Gloucester, United Kingdom
| | - Jessica Meade
- Taronga Conservation Society Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Hawkesbury Institute for the Environment, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Morris KL, Slocum SK. Functional analysis and treatment of self-injurious feather plucking in a black vulture (Coragyps atratus). J Appl Behav Anal 2019; 52:918-927. [PMID: 31523815 DOI: 10.1002/jaba.639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The etiology and maintenance of self-injurious feather plucking (FP) have been attributed to biological and environmental processes, yet a definitive solution has not been found. The current study investigated the application of a functional analysis and function-based treatment to reduce the FP of a black vulture (Coragyps atratus). FP was found to be maintained by positive reinforcement in the form of contingent attention. A treatment consisting of noncontingent reinforcement decreased FP, and levels of FP remained low during schedule thinning. The current study further demonstrates the validity of function-based assessment and treatment with captive animals.
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30
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SUCCESSFUL REDUCTION OF FEATHER-DAMAGING BEHAVIOR BY SOCIAL RESTRUCTURING IN A GROUP OF GOLDEN CONURES (GUARUBA GUAROUBA). J Zoo Wildl Med 2019; 48:859-867. [PMID: 28920783 DOI: 10.1638/2015-0279.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A variety of infectious and noninfectious causes may contribute to feather-damaging behavior (FDB) in birds. This paper describes an episode of FDB behavior related to an isosexual group composition in a group of 20 golden conures (Guaruba guarouba) kept in a collective aviary. After ruling out infectious causative agents and analyzing the social bird group composition over a period of 10 yr, the male to female ratio of the group was reduced from 1.7 to 1.0. This intervention resulted in a significant improvement of the feather condition and improved reproduction. Further analysis revealed that FDB was not correlated to age, gender, or origin. In addition, FDB was associated with stress, as reflected by an elevated heterophil : lymphocyte ratio that decreased significantly following social restructuring. This study stresses the importance of an appropriate male to female ratio when golden conures are kept in aviaries.
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31
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Jepsen EM, Ganswindt A, Ngcamphalala CA, Bourne AR, Ridley AR, McKechnie AE. Non-invasive monitoring of physiological stress in an afrotropical arid-zone passerine bird, the southern pied babbler. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2019; 276:60-68. [PMID: 30836104 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2019.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2018] [Revised: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Using faecal matter to monitor stress levels in animals non-invasively is a powerful technique for elucidating the effects of biotic and abiotic stressors on free-living animals. To validate the use of droppings for measuring stress in southern pied babblers (Turdoides bicolor) we performed an ACTH challenge on captive individuals and determined the effect of temporary separation from their social group on their faecal glucocorticoid metabolite (fGCM) concentration. Additionally, we compared fGCM concentrations of captive babblers to those of wild conspecifics and examined the effects of dominance rank on fGCM concentration. We found droppings to be a suitable matrix for measuring physiological stress in babblers and that individual separation from the group caused an increase in fGCM levels. In addition, babblers temporarily held in captivity had substantially higher fGCM concentrations than wild individuals, indicating that babblers kept in captivity experience high levels of stress. In wild, free-living individuals, dominant males showed the highest levels of stress, suggesting that being the dominant male of a highly territorial social group is stressful. Non-invasive sampling allows field-based researchers to reduce disturbance related to monitoring adrenocortical function, thereby avoiding artificially increasing circulating corticosterone concentration as it is not necessary to physically restrain study animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma M Jepsen
- South African Research Chair in Conservation Physiology, National Zoological Garden, South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria, South Africa; DST-NRF Centre of Excellence at the FitzPatrick Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield 0028, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - André Ganswindt
- Mammal Research Institute, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield 0028, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Celiwe A Ngcamphalala
- South African Research Chair in Conservation Physiology, National Zoological Garden, South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria, South Africa; DST-NRF Centre of Excellence at the FitzPatrick Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield 0028, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Amanda R Bourne
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, 7701, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Amanda R Ridley
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, 7701, Cape Town, South Africa; Centre for Evolutionary Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Andrew E McKechnie
- South African Research Chair in Conservation Physiology, National Zoological Garden, South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria, South Africa; DST-NRF Centre of Excellence at the FitzPatrick Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield 0028, Pretoria, South Africa.
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de Haas EN, van der Eijk JA. Where in the serotonergic system does it go wrong? Unravelling the route by which the serotonergic system affects feather pecking in chickens. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2018; 95:170-188. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2017] [Revised: 07/09/2018] [Accepted: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Bertin A, Beraud A, Lansade L, Blache MC, Diot A, Mulot B, Arnould C. Facial display and blushing: Means of visual communication in blue-and-yellow macaws (Ara Ararauna)? PLoS One 2018; 13:e0201762. [PMID: 30133471 PMCID: PMC6104955 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0201762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Mainly recognized for their cognitive performance, the visual communication system and, particularly, the potential function of facial displays in parrots remain thus far unexplored. Here, we provide the first descriptive study of facial display use in captive blue-and-yellow macaws. We observed the feather position (sleeked or ruffled) on the crown, nape and cheek at the group level during the macaws' daily routine and individually while interacting with a familiar animal caretaker. In the latter context, blushing was also assessed on the bare skin of the cheek. Group level observations showed that crown, nape and cheek feathers ruffling was more frequent in activities requiring no locomotion than in activities requiring locomotion. With the animal caretaker, crown ruffling was significantly more frequent when the caretaker was actively engaging with the parrot than during a control phase with no mutual interaction. In addition, a significantly higher proportion of naïve observers judged blushing as being present on photographs taken during the mutual interaction phase than during the control phase. We thus showed significant variations in facial displays and bare skin colour based on the birds' social context and activity. Our results broaden the scope for further studies to determine whether parrots' faces provide visual social signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Bertin
- PRC, CNRS, IFCE, INRA, Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Arielle Beraud
- PRC, CNRS, IFCE, INRA, Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
- ZooParc de Beauval & Beauval Nature, Saint-Aignan, France
| | - Léa Lansade
- PRC, CNRS, IFCE, INRA, Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | | | - Amandine Diot
- ZooParc de Beauval & Beauval Nature, Saint-Aignan, France
| | - Baptiste Mulot
- ZooParc de Beauval & Beauval Nature, Saint-Aignan, France
| | - Cécile Arnould
- PRC, CNRS, IFCE, INRA, Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
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Assessment of Commercially Available Immunoassays to Measure Glucocorticoid Metabolites in African Grey Parrot ( Psittacus Erithacus) Droppings: A Ready Tool for Non-Invasive Monitoring of Stress. Animals (Basel) 2018; 8:ani8070105. [PMID: 29958413 PMCID: PMC6071241 DOI: 10.3390/ani8070105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Revised: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The African Grey Parrot is a very popular bird commonly found in zoological collections. However, captivity can prevent it from meeting its natural needs and so become an ongoing stressor, leading sometimes to clinical and/or behavioral disorders. Non-invasive forms of stress assessment are of definite interest for monitoring welfare in captive bird populations. One notable stress outcome is the excretion of glucocorticoid metabolites (from the stress hormone corticosterone) in droppings. The aim of this study was to carefully assess methods of glucocorticoid metabolites extraction and measurement in droppings from African Grey Parrots. Several extraction and enzyme immunoassays procedures were tested, based on the evaluation of analytical quality parameters and biological relevance. The best procedure was found to be a combination of a 60% methanol extraction with the use of a commercial corticosterone enzyme immunoassay. To determine whether this method was suitable for assessing different stress levels, a significant correlation with another reliable stress marker in birds, the Heterophil: Lymphocyte Ratio, was evidenced. This method can thus be used to evaluate stress in African Gray Parrots in a non-invasive way and help to monitor their welfare in zoo populations for instance. Abstract Despite being undomesticated, African Grey Parrots (Psittacus erithacus) are commonly found in captivity, in zoos or as pets. Captivity can be an ongoing stressor. Non-invasive glucocorticoid metabolites (GCM) measurements from bird droppings are of interest for assessing stress but require careful evaluation in each newly studied species. This study describes the assessment of such methods for Psittacus erithacus to provide tools for evaluating stress and monitoring welfare. We evaluated 12 method combinations of GCM extraction and enzyme immunoassay (EIA) from a pool of African Grey Parrot droppings, through the validation of several analytical parameters. Then, Heterophil: Lymphocyte Ratios (HLR), another reliable stress marker, were determined and correlated to individual dropping GCM concentrations for 29 birds to determine whether the method is biologically relevant. We found that the best procedure to measure GCM in African Grey Parrot droppings is a combination of 60% methanol extraction measured using a Corticosterone EIA kit (Cayman Chemical Company) from fresh or dry droppings. The establishment of a significant correlation (Pearson coefficient correlation = 0.48; p = 0.0082) between HLR and GCM in the studied population confirmed the method biological relevance. This method can thus be applied to assess stress in Psittacus erithacus and support welfare monitoring in zoo populations.
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Abstract
The use of behavior modifying drugs may be considered in birds with behavior problems, especially those refractory to behavior modification therapy and environmental management. To accomplish behavior change, a variety of drugs can be used, including psychoactive drugs, hormones, antihistamines, analgesics, and anticonvulsants. Because their prescription to birds is off-label, these drugs are considered appropriate only when a sound rationale can be provided for their use. This requires a (correct) behavioral diagnosis to be established. In addition, regular monitoring and follow-up are warranted to determine the efficacy of the treatment and evaluate the occurrence of potential adverse side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne van Zeeland
- Division of Zoological Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 108, Utrecht 3584 CM, The Netherlands.
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The gray matter: Prevention and reduction of abnormal behavior in companion gray parrots (Psittacus erithacus). J Vet Behav 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2017.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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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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Publisher's Note. J Vet Behav 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2016.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Liu H, Duan H, Wang C. Effects of Ambient Environmental Factors on the Stereotypic Behaviors of Giant Pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca). PLoS One 2017; 12:e0170167. [PMID: 28107477 PMCID: PMC5249093 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0170167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2015] [Accepted: 12/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Stereotypies are commonly observed in zoo animals, and it is necessary to better understand whether ambient environmental factors contribute to stereotypy and how to affect animal welfare in zoo settings. This study investigated the relationships between stereotypic behaviors and environmental factors including ambient temperatures, humidity, light intensity, sound intensity and number of visitors. Seven giant pandas were observed in three indoor enclosures and three outdoor enclosures. Environmental factors were measured for both indoor and outdoor enclosures and the effect they had on stereotypical behaviors was investigated. Our research found that light intensity significantly correlated with all stereotypies behaviors. Higher environmental temperature reduced the duration of pacing but increased the frequency of pacing, the duration and frequency of door-directed, meanwhile the duration of head-toss. However, we found no noticeable effect of humidity on stereotypic behaviors except for the frequency of head-toss. We also found that sound intensity was not correlated with stereotypies. Finally, the growth of visitors was negatively associated with the duration of door-directed. These results demonstrated that various environmental factors can have significant effects on stereotypic behaviors causing the expression of various stereotypies. Thus, stereotypies in zoo animals may not simply represent suboptimal welfare, but rather might be adopted as a means of coping with an aversive environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- He Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Captive Wildlife Technology, Giant Panda Research Centre, Beijing Zoo, Beijing, China
| | - Hejun Duan
- Beijing Municipal Key Laboratory of Food Poisoning Diagnosis Traceability Technology, Beijing Centre of Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Key Laboratory of Digital Earth Science, Institute of Remote Sensing and Digital Earth, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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Williams I, Hoppitt W, Grant R. The effect of auditory enrichment, rearing method and social environment on the behavior of zoo-housed psittacines (Aves: Psittaciformes); implications for welfare. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2016.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Costa P, Macchi E, Valle E, De Marco M, Nucera DM, Gasco L, Schiavone A. An association between feather damaging behavior and corticosterone metabolite excretion in captive African grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus). PeerJ 2016; 4:e2462. [PMID: 27672512 PMCID: PMC5028759 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.2462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2016] [Accepted: 08/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background African grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus) are kept as pets and are frequently hand-reared. It has been observed that hand-reared African grey parrots may develop behavioral disorders such as feather damaging behavior (FDB). It is well known that chronic stress is involved in behavioral disorders in captive parrots. The main glucocorticoid in birds is corticosterone; its quantification provides information about adrenocortical activity and is considered to be a reliable indicator of stress levels in birds. We analyzed the differences in the excretion of corticosterone metabolites (CM) in the droppings of African grey parrots characterized by: 1. different rearing histories (parent rearing vs. hand rearing); and 2. the presence or absence of FDB in hand-reared parrots. Methods A total of 82 African grey parrots that were kept in captivity were considered. According to breeding methods, three groups of birds were defined: 1. The parent-reared (PR) parrots included birds kept in pairs (n = 30 pairs) with a conspecific partner of the opposite sex. All of these birds were healthy and never showed FDB signs; 2. The healthy hand-reared parrots (H-HR) included pet parrots individually kept, that were hand-reared and did not display any sign of FDB (n = 11, 7 males and 4 females); 3. The FDB hand-reared parrot (FDB-HR) included pet parrots individually kept, that were hand-reared and displayed FDB (n = 11, 7 males and 4 females). Droppings were collected in the morning over three alternating days in autumn 2014 and spring 2015. The CM were determined using a multi-species corticosterone enzyme immunoassay kit. Split-plot repeated-measure ANOVA was used to examine any differences using group, season and group × season as the main factors. Results Different quantities of CM in droppings were found for the three groups. The mean CM value was 587 ng/g in the PR parrots, 494 ng/g in the H-HR parrots and 1,744 ng/g in the FDB-HR parrots, irrespective of the season. The excretion of CM in FDB-HR was significantly higher than in PR or H-HR parrots. CM in droppings were not influenced by the season (autumn vs. spring); furthermore, the interaction between group and sampling season was not significant. Limited to the H-HR and FDB-HR groups, a trend in the significance of the difference in the mean CM excreted by male and female birds was observed, with the levels excreted by males being higher than those excreted by females. When the effect of age was considered (in the two separate groups), there was a statistically significant positive correlation only for H-HR. Conclusions The highest amount of CM excretion was found in FDB-HR parrots, and a positive correlation between age and CM excretion was found in H-HR. Given that the CM excretion of both PR and H-HR parrots was similar in our study, future research is recommended to investigate the specific aspects of hand-rearing to improve parrot welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierluca Costa
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Elisabetta Macchi
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Emanuela Valle
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Michele De Marco
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Daniele M Nucera
- Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Laura Gasco
- Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences, University of Turin, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Achille Schiavone
- Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
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Brunberg EI, Rodenburg TB, Rydhmer L, Kjaer JB, Jensen P, Keeling LJ. Omnivores Going Astray: A Review and New Synthesis of Abnormal Behavior in Pigs and Laying Hens. Front Vet Sci 2016; 3:57. [PMID: 27500137 PMCID: PMC4956668 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2016.00057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2016] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Pigs and poultry are by far the most omnivorous of the domesticated farm animals and it is in their nature to be highly explorative. In the barren production environments, this motivation to explore can be expressed as abnormal oral manipulation directed toward pen mates. Tail biting (TB) in pigs and feather pecking (FP) in laying hens are examples of unwanted behaviors that are detrimental to the welfare of the animals. The aim of this review is to draw these two seemingly similar abnormalities together in a common framework, in order to seek underlying mechanisms and principles. Both TB and FP are affected by the physical and social environment, but not all individuals in a group express these behaviors and individual genetic and neurobiological characteristics play an important role. By synthesizing what is known about environmental and individual influences, we suggest a novel possible mechanism, common for pigs and poultry, involving the brain-gut-microbiota axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma I. Brunberg
- NORSØK – Norwegian Centre for Organic Agriculture, Tingvoll, Norway
- NIBIO – Norwegian Institute for Bioeconomy Research, Tingvoll, Norway
| | - T. Bas Rodenburg
- Behavioural Ecology Group, Wageningen University, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Lotta Rydhmer
- Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Joergen B. Kjaer
- Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Celle, Germany
| | - Per Jensen
- AVIAN Behaviour Genomics and Physiology Group, IFM Biology, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Linda J. Keeling
- Department of Animal Environment and Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
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Costa P, Macchi E, Tomassone L, Ricceri F, Bollo E, Scaglione FE, Tarantola M, De Marco M, Prola L, Bergero D, Schiavone A. Feather picking in pet parrots: sensitive species, risk factor and ethological evidence. ITALIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/1828051x.2016.1195711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pierluca Costa
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, University of Torino, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Elisabetta Macchi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, University of Torino, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Laura Tomassone
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, University of Torino, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Fulvio Ricceri
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche, University of Torino, Torino, Italy
- Unit of Epidemiology, Regional Health Service ASL TO3, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Enrico Bollo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, University of Torino, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | | | - Martina Tarantola
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, University of Torino, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Michele De Marco
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, University of Torino, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Liviana Prola
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, University of Torino, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Domenico Bergero
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, University of Torino, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
| | - Achille Schiavone
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, University of Torino, Grugliasco (TO), Italy
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Reimer J, Maia CM, Santos EF. Environmental Enrichments for a Group of Captive Macaws: Low Interaction Does Not Mean Low Behavioral Changes. J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2016; 19:385-95. [PMID: 27135378 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2016.1175944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Environmental enrichment has been widely used to improve conditions for nonhuman animals in captivity. However, there is no consensus about the best way to evaluate the success of enrichments. This study evaluated whether the proportion of time spent interacting with enrichments indicated the proportion of overall behavioral changes. Six environmental enrichments were introduced in succession to 16 captive macaws, and interaction of the animals with them as well as the behaviors of the group were recorded before and during the enrichments. All of the enrichments affected the proportions of time spent in different behaviors. Macaws interacted more with certain items (hibiscus and food tree) than with others (a toy or swings and stairs), but introduction of the enrichments that invoked the least interaction caused as many behavioral changes as those that invoked the most. Moreover, feeding behavior was only affected by the enrichment that invoked the least interaction, a change not detected by a general analysis of enrichment effects. In conclusion, little interaction with enrichment does not mean little change in behavior, and the effects of enrichments are more complex than previously considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jéssica Reimer
- a Department of Zoology , Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo State , Botucatu , Brazil
| | - Caroline Marques Maia
- b Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Behavior, Department of Physiology , Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo State , Botucatu , Brazil
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Ferreira JCP, Fujihara CJ, Fruhvald E, Trevisol E, Destro FC, Teixeira CR, Pantoja JCF, Schmidt EMS, Palme R. Non-Invasive Measurement of Adrenocortical Activity in Blue-Fronted Parrots (Amazona aestiva, Linnaeus, 1758). PLoS One 2015; 10:e0145909. [PMID: 26717147 PMCID: PMC4696673 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0145909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2014] [Accepted: 12/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Parrots kept in zoos and private households often develop psychological and behavioural disorders. Despite knowing that such disorders have a multifactorial aetiology and that chronic stress is involved, little is known about their development mainly due to a poor understanding of the parrots' physiology and the lack of validated methods to measure stress in these species. In birds, blood corticosterone concentrations provide information about adrenocortical activity. However, blood sampling techniques are difficult, highly invasive and inappropriate to investigate stressful situations and welfare conditions. Thus, a non-invasive method to measure steroid hormones is critically needed. Aiming to perform a physiological validation of a cortisone enzyme immunoassay (EIA) to measure glucocorticoid metabolites (GCM) in droppings of 24 Blue-fronted parrots (Amazona aestiva), two experiments were designed. During the experiments all droppings were collected at 3-h intervals. Initially, birds were sampled for 24 h (experiment 1) and one week later assigned to four different treatments (experiment 2): Control (undisturbed), Saline (0.2 mL of 0.9% NaCl IM), Dexamethasone (1 mg/kg IM) and Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH; 25 IU IM). Treatments (always one week apart) were applied to all animals in a cross-over study design. A daily rhythm pattern in GCM excretion was detected but there were no sex differences (first experiment). Saline and dexamethasone treatments had no effect on GCM (not different from control concentrations). Following ACTH injection, GCM concentration increased about 13.1-fold (median) at the peak (after 3-9 h), and then dropped to pre-treatment concentrations. By a successful physiological validation, we demonstrated the suitability of the cortisone EIA to non-invasively monitor increased adrenocortical activity, and thus, stress in the Blue-fronted parrot. This method opens up new perspectives for investigating the connection between behavioural disorders and stress in this bird species, and could also help in their captive management.
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Affiliation(s)
- João C. P. Ferreira
- Department of Animal Reproduction and Veterinary Radiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Unesp – Univ Estadual Paulista, Rubião Junior s/n, 18.618-970, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Caroline J. Fujihara
- Department of Animal Reproduction and Veterinary Radiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Unesp – Univ Estadual Paulista, Rubião Junior s/n, 18.618-970, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Erika Fruhvald
- Department of Animal Reproduction and Veterinary Radiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Unesp – Univ Estadual Paulista, Rubião Junior s/n, 18.618-970, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Trevisol
- Department of Animal Reproduction and Veterinary Radiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Unesp – Univ Estadual Paulista, Rubião Junior s/n, 18.618-970, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Flavia C. Destro
- Department of Animal Reproduction and Veterinary Radiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Unesp – Univ Estadual Paulista, Rubião Junior s/n, 18.618-970, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Carlos R. Teixeira
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Unesp – Univ Estadual Paulista, Rubião Junior s/n, 18.618-970, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - José C. F. Pantoja
- Department of Veterinary Hygiene and Public Health, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, UNESP – Univ Estadual Paulista, Rubião Junior s/n, 18.618-970, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Elizabeth M. S. Schmidt
- Department of Veterinary Clinics, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Unesp – Univ Estadual Paulista, Rubião Junior s/n, 18.618-970, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Rupert Palme
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Unit of Physiology, Pathophysiology and Experimental Endocrinology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinärplatz 1, 2210, Vienna, Austria
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Visser M, Ragsdale MM, Boothe DM. Pharmacokinetics of Amitriptyline HCl and Its Metabolites in Healthy African Grey Parrots (Psittacus erithacus) and Cockatoos (CacatuaSpecies). J Avian Med Surg 2015; 29:275-81. [DOI: 10.1647/2014-054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Coleman K, Lutz CK, Worlein JM, Gottlieb DH, Peterson E, Lee GH, Robertson ND, Rosenberg K, Menard MT, Novak MA. The correlation between alopecia and temperament in rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) at four primate facilities. Am J Primatol 2015; 79:1-10. [PMID: 26581955 DOI: 10.1002/ajp.22504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2015] [Revised: 10/09/2015] [Accepted: 10/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Alopecia is a ubiquitous, multifaceted problem at facilities caring for captive rhesus macaques. There is a wide range of potential etiologies for the hair loss, including compromised immune function, dermatological pathologies, and environmental factors. However, few studies have examined whether various temperamental traits affect vulnerability to develop alopecia. We examined the correlation between alopecia and temperament in 101 (51M) indoor-housed rhesus macaques at four national primate centers. We utilized a cage side version of the Human Intruder test (HIT) to assess response to four conditions: no human present (Alone), human intruder standing next to the cage without making eye contact (Profile), intruder making direct eye contact (Stare) and intruder with back turned (Back). Behavior from all videos was quantified at one facility. We used generalized linear modeling to examine the relationship between behavior on the HIT and alopecia, controlling for facility, age, and sex. There was a significant negative correlation between alopecia and various behaviors associated with an inhibited or anxious temperament, including self-directed behavior (β = -0.15, P < 0.001) and freeze in the Profile period (β = -0.0092, P < 0.001), and defensive behaviors (β = -0.0094, P < 0.001) and time spent in the back of the cage in the Stare period (β = -0.0023, P = 0.015). Individuals with an inhibited or anxious temperament had less alopecia than others. Further, there were facility differences with respect to several variables on the HIT, including defensive behavior in Stare and freeze in Profile. These results suggest that temperament can influence the development of alopecia in rhesus macaques. Our results also highlight the degree to which facility differences can affect outcomes on standardized behavioral tests. Am. J. Primatol. 79:e22504, 2017. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Corrine K Lutz
- Southwest National Primate Research Center, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Julie M Worlein
- Washington National Primate Research Center, Seattle, Washington
| | | | - Emily Peterson
- University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts
| | - Grace H Lee
- Washington National Primate Research Center, Seattle, Washington
| | | | | | - Mark T Menard
- University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts
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Kjaer JB, Würbel H, Schrader L. Perseveration in a guessing task by laying hens selected for high or low levels of feather pecking does not support classification of feather pecking as a stereotypy. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2015.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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