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1
Burtt, Edward H., Max R. Schroeder, Lauren A. Smith, Jenna E. Sroka, and Kevin J. McGraw. "Colourful parrot feathers resist bacterial degradation." Biology Letters 7, no. 2 (2010): 214–16. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsbl.2010.0716.
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The brilliant red, orange and yellow colours of parrot feathers are the product of psittacofulvins, which are synthetic pigments known only from parrots. Recent evidence suggests that some pigments in bird feathers function not just as colour generators, but also preserve plumage integrity by increasing the resistance of feather keratin to bacterial degradation. We exposed a variety of colourful parrot feathers to feather-degrading Bacillus licheniformis and found that feathers with red psittacofulvins degraded at about the same rate as those with melanin and more slowly than white feathers, which lack pigments. Blue feathers, in which colour is based on the microstructural arrangement of keratin, air and melanin granules, and green feathers, which combine structural blue with yellow psittacofulvins, degraded at a rate similar to that of red and black feathers. These differences in resistance to bacterial degradation of differently coloured feathers suggest that colour patterns within the Psittaciformes may have evolved to resist bacterial degradation, in addition to their role in communication and camouflage.
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Valastanova, M., M. Petrikova, L. Kulikova, and Z. Knotek. "Psittacine beak and feather disease virus and avian polyomavirus detection rate in clinically healthy captive birds in the Czech Republic." Veterinární Medicína 66, No. 2 (2021): 72–75. http://dx.doi.org/10.17221/22/2020-vetmed.
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The aim of this study was to document the detection rate of the beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) and avian polyomavirus (APV) across clinically healthy captive parrots in the Czech Republic. The presence of the BFDV and APV was tested using a nested polymerase chain rection (PCR) in 177 parrots originating from 34 facilities (breeding facilities, private owners). Positive BFDV results came from 38 parrots (21.5%) within 12 facilities (35.3%). Two parrots (1.1%) originating from two different facilities (5.9%) tested positive for APV. The results show a high detection rate of BFDV in the clinically healthy captive parrot populations in the Czech Republic. Preventive measures to stop the spread of this virus are, thus, essential.
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Faltlhauser, Ana C., Nora Cabrera, M. Cristina Hernández, Restrepo Andrés F. Sánchez, Martin Hill, and Alejandro J. Sosa. "Lysathia flavipes and Lysathia cilliersae Cabrera sp. nov. (Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae): genetic and morphological unravelling of biocontrol agents for two invasive aquatic plants." ZooKeys 1228 (February 13, 2025): 11–52. https://doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1228.138773.
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In the search for specific natural enemies to control two invasive aquatic plants (IAP) from South America, Ludwigia grandiflora subsp. hexapetala (Onagraceae) and <i>Myriophyllum aquaticum</i> (Haloragaceae), taxonomic challenges associated with two <i>Lysathia</i> Bechyné, 1959 (Chrysomelidae; Alticini) species had to be resolved. <i>Lysathia flavipes</i> (Boheman, 1859) exhibits significant morphological variation, causes heavy damage to both IAPs, and may represent more than one species due to the phylogenetic gap between hosts. Additionally, an undescribed <i>Lysathia</i> species (previously published as <i>Lysathia</i> sp.), sourced from Brazil, has been successfully used as a control agent for <i>M. aquaticum</i> in South Africa since 1994. An integrative taxonomic approach combining genetic and morphological analyses was employed. A lectotype and paralectotypes for <i>Graptodera flavipes</i> Boheman, 1859 are here designated. Phylogenetic studies revealed that <i>L. flavipes</i> had greater genetic and morphological variation than originally described, and no evidence suggested that <i>L. flavipes</i> represented a species complex associated with its host plants. As a result, the species description was expanded. On the other hand, genetic and morphological differences such as body size, colouration, and genital structures further supported the description of <i>Lysathia cilliersae</i> Cabrera, sp. nov. and its differentiation from other closely related species, including <i>L. flavipes</i> and <i>L. ludoviciana</i> (Fall, 1910). Specimens of <i>L. cilliersae</i> sp. nov. collected in Misiones, Argentina, matched those from South Africa. Genetic sequences correlated with morphological vouchers, images, and illustrations of morphology and genitalia, as well as new distribution records, are provided. This research contributes to the taxonomic knowledge of the <i>Lysathia</i> genus and supports accurate species identification in applied entomological contexts, such as biological control programmes.
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Oberholzer, I. G., D. L. Mafokoane, and M. P. Hill. "The biology and laboratory host range of the weevil, Listronotus marginicollis (Hustache) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), a natural enemy of the invasive aquatic weed, parrot's feather, Myriophyllum aquaticum (Velloso) Verde (Haloragaceae)." African Entomology 15, no. 2 (2007): 385–90. http://dx.doi.org/10.4001/1021-3589-15.2.385.
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Chitty, John. "Dermatological diseases of parrots." Companion Animal 28, no. 3 (2023): 2–10. https://doi.org/10.12968/coan.2022.0030.
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This article covers the investigation of skin diseases in parrots. It often appears that parrot dermatology is basically an investigation of feather damaging disorders but, while dermatopathies may be a cause of feather damage, they also exist in their own right as diseases with different clinical presentations. This article will look at these dermatopathies on a lesion-based basis in parrots – the species group most commonly presented to practitioners. In terms of feather damaging disorders, dermatological causes will be covered, but the systemic, behavioural, social or husbandry causes are outside the scope of this article.
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Stepanova, M. V., V. A. Ostapenko, and S. V. Agulina. "Application of the centile scale method for assessing the health of parrots." Veterinariya, Zootekhniya i Biotekhnologiya 1, no. 1 (2021): 21–28. http://dx.doi.org/10.36871/vet.zoo.bio.202101003.
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The article presents the results of studies of the microelement composition of feathers of wild birds kept in the conditions of zoos in Moscow and Ivanovo. The aim of the study was to study the content of some heavy metals and arsenic in representatives of the cockatoo subfamily – Cacatuinae (White cockatoo – Cacatua alba, Sulper-crested ccockatoo – Cacatua galerita), and birds of subfamily Psittacinae – Blue-fronted Amazon – Amazona aestiva, Burrowing parakeet – Cyanoliseus patagonus assessing the health status of birds. In 2018–2020, parrot`s feathers were studied for the accumulation of zinc, copper, iron, lead, cadmium and arsenic by the atomic absorption method. The data on the features of the content of chemical elements in different species of parrots are given. In the course of the study, it was found that according to the value of the average content in the feathers of parrots, the studied elements form the following decreasing series: Fe> Zn> Cu> Pb> Cd> As. In parrots kept in zoos, there is a tendency to a decrease in the proportion of zinc and copper in 38,4%, an increase in iron and cadmium in 30,8% and 38,4% of individuals, respectively. Deviations in the fluctuations of lead and arsenic in the studied sample of birds were equally in the direction of increasing and decreasing their content in biosubstrates in 38,4% of individuals; 30,8% of the studied birds in terms of the content of iron, zinc and cadmium in feathers, 46,1% in terms of copper, 23,1% in lead, 7,7% in terms of lead are in a state of “pre-illness” and require additional examinations. In the fan of the parrots, a significant increase in the concentration of lead in the grooves, in comparison with the rod, by 3,98 times and a decrease by 2,83 times in the level of zinc accumulation was established. Revealed a significant average direct relationship between the level of Zn and Pb, Zn and Cd, Cu and Pb, Cu and Cd; Fe and As; Cd and As and inverse average relationship between the level of Pb and Cd; Pb and As in bird feathers. To improve the trace element status of parrot’s zoological institutions, it is necessary to conduct monitoring studies with a frequency of 1 time per six months with an assessment of the level of chemical elements on centile scales.
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Costa, Pierluca, Elisabetta Macchi, Emanuela Valle, et al. "An association between feather damaging behavior and corticosterone metabolite excretion in captive African grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus)." PeerJ 4 (September 13, 2016): e2462. http://dx.doi.org/10.7717/peerj.2462.
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BackgroundAfrican 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.MethodsA 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.ResultsDifferent 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.ConclusionsThe 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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Lambert, Megan L., Ivo Jacobs, Mathias Osvath, and Auguste M. P. von Bayern. "Birds of a feather? Parrot and corvid cognition compared." Behaviour 156, no. 5-8 (2019): 505–94. http://dx.doi.org/10.1163/1568539x-00003527.
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Abstract The last several decades of research on avian cognition have revealed surprising parallels between the abilities of birds — most notably corvids — and great apes. Parrots, albeit far less studied, are cited alongside corvids as “feathered apes”, but are these two taxa really that similar cognitively? In this review we aim to take a step back and present the broader picture, focusing on areas where there is now data from both parrots and corvids to facilitate first comparisons on a somewhat wider scale. By charting these birds’ performance in cognitive tasks, in many of which corvids perform on par with primates, we hope to highlight understudied areas and promising directions for future research. In reviewing the literature, the general pattern that emerges shows that different corvid and parrot species indeed perform similarly in a range of cognitive tasks to the extent that one may call them “feathered apes”.
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M, Ashraful Kabir. "Inbreeding Fact of Exotic Wild Psittacids in Bangladesh." Journal of Ethology & Animal Science 2, no. 2 (2019): 1–5. http://dx.doi.org/10.23880/jeasc-16000114.
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Captive breeding of short-tailed parrots (4) and long-tailed parakeets (16) out of 20 species were remarkable. These colourful birds were very nice in common appearance. Casual cages were used for their breeding especially for smaller birds. Parrots and parakeets are mainly reared as hobby and due to remarkable production and public acceptance only budgies are commercially abundant in Bangladesh. Parrot, Parakeet, mutated form of Ring-necked Parakeet, Lorikeet, Lovebird, Budgie, Conure, Rosella, Amazon Parrot, Cockatiel, and Cockatoo are common in all pet shop. In aviary, Budgie rearing is common then Lovebird, Cockatiel, and Macaw. Psittacids breeding accessories and its care are more complicated and vary from species to species. In breeding season most of the birds are shown aggressiveness to their pair and human too. Colourful feather, huge variety, nice voice, activeness and for talking ability these birds are excellent pet. Mortality rate of parrots and parakeets were found high. This study was performed in the year 2019
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Carter, Paul. "Parrot Interpreter: Representation, Extinction and the Electronic Information Environment." Cultural Studies Review 12, no. 1 (2013): 89–103. http://dx.doi.org/10.5130/csr.v12i1.3416.
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Humans, it seems, can’t get enough of parrots. Ethnography, folklore, psychology, and, of course, imaginative literature all offer copious evidence of our fantasy of living with, communicating with and even being parrots. The natural history of parrots and the cultural history of parrots present something of a conundrum: on the one hand, a massive destructiveness (illegal bird and feather trade, environment destruction, scientific collections); on the other, an often erotically inflected sympathetic identification leading to the production of new forms. It’s strange to realise that Europe is infested with a shadow population of captive and inbred budgerigars, whose numbers far exceed those remaining in the wild and who can never return to their origins. If, as our privileged other, our uncanny mimic and double, the parrot still fails to survive, what does this tell us about our economy of desire? It seems that to know is to consume and destroy; and that the apparent contrast between the operations of the rainforest loggers and bird-trappers and the sentimental representations and transformations parrot suffers in human society is overdrawn. How is this contradiction to be explained?
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Voltura, Elise Varaela, James L. Tracy, J. Jill Heatley, et al. "Modelling Red–Crowned Parrot (Psittaciformes: Amazona viridigenalis [Cassin, 1853]) distributions in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas using elevation and vegetation indices and their derivatives." PLOS ONE 18, no. 12 (2023): e0294118. http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0294118.
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Texas Rio Grande Valley Red–crowned Parrots (Psittaciformes: Amazona viridigenalis [Cassin, 1853]) primarily occupy vegetated urban rather than natural areas. We investigated the utility of raw vegetation indices and their derivatives as well as elevation in modelling the Red–crowned parrot’s general use, nest site, and roost site habitat distributions. A feature selection algorithm was employed to create and select an ensemble of fine–scale, top–ranked MaxEnt models from optimally–sized, decorrelated subsets of four to seven of 199 potential variables. Variables were ranked post hoc by frequency of appearance and mean permutation importance in top–ranked models. Our ensemble models accurately predicted the three distributions of interest (x¯ Area Under the Curve [AUC] = 0.904–0.969). Top–ranked variables for different habitat distribution models included: (a) general use–percent cover of preferred ranges of entropy texture of Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) values, entropy and contrast textures of NDVI, and elevation; (b) nest site–entropy textures of NDVI and Green–Blue NDVI, and percent cover of preferred range of entropy texture of NDVI values; (c) roost site–percent cover of preferred ranges of entropy texture of NDVI values, contrast texture of NDVI, and entropy texture of Green–Red Normalized Difference Index. Texas Rio Grande Valley Red–crowned Parrot presence was associated with urban areas with high heterogeneity and randomness in the distribution of vegetation and/or its characteristics (e.g., arrangement, type, structure). Maintaining existing preferred vegetation types and incorporating them into new developments should support the persistence of Red–crowned Parrots in southern Texas.
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McGraw, Kevin J., and Mary C. Nogare. "Distribution of unique red feather pigments in parrots." Biology Letters 1, no. 1 (2005): 38–43. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsbl.2004.0269.
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In many birds, red, orange and yellow feathers are coloured by carotenoid pigments, but parrots are an exception. For over a century, biochemists have known that parrots use an unusual set of pigments to produce their rainbow of plumage colours, but their biochemical identity has remained elusive until recently. Here, we use high-performance liquid chromatography to survey the pigments present in the red feathers of 44 species of parrots representing each of the three psittaciform families. We found that all species used the same suite of five polyenal lipochromes (or psittacofulvins) to colour their plumage red, indicating that this unique system of pigmentation is remarkably conserved evolutionarily in parrots. Species with redder feathers had higher concentrations of psittacofulvins in their plumage, but neither feather colouration nor historical relatedness predicted the ratios in which the different pigments appeared. These polyenes were absent from blood at the time when birds were replacing their colourful feathers, suggesting that parrots do not acquire red plumage pigments from the diet, but instead manufacture them endogenously at growing feathers.
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Anderson, Patricia. "A Bird in the House: An Anthropological Perspective on Companion Parrots." Society & Animals 11, no. 4 (2003): 393–418. http://dx.doi.org/10.1163/156853003322796109.
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AbstractAlthough companion birds are the third most-common animal companion—after dogs and cats—in U.S. households, few anthrozoological publications focus on them. This study examines the role of companion parrots in American households. The study combines a literature review with the results of a survey of bird owners and participant observation. The study uses the resulting qualitative and quantitative data in addressing the social dynamics of companion parrot ownership in the household. The data support the impression that companion parrots increasingly are being considered family members, or "Fids" ("Feathered Kids"), thus following current trends in American society that accord companion animals in general a greater investment in time, money, and emotion. However, the general public is not well informed about the complexities of captive parrot care, and psittacine wellness is an important concern.
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Julian, Laurel, Tomasz Piasecki, Klaudia Chrząstek, et al. "Extensive recombination detected among beak and feather disease virus isolates from breeding facilities in Poland." Journal of General Virology 94, no. 5 (2013): 1086–95. http://dx.doi.org/10.1099/vir.0.050179-0.
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Beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) causes the highly contagious, in some cases fatal, psittacine beak and feather disease in parrots. The European continent has no native parrots, yet in the past has been one of the world’s biggest importers of wild-caught exotic parrot species. Following the banning of this practice in 2007, the demand for exotic pet parrots has largely been met by established European breeding facilities, which can also supply buyers outside Europe. However, the years of unregulated importation have provided numerous opportunities for BFDV to enter Europe, meaning the likelihood of birds within captive breeding facilities being BFDV positive is high. This study examined the BFDV status of such facilities in Poland, a country previously shown to have BFDV among captive birds. A total of 209 birds from over 50 captive breeding facilities across Poland were tested, and 43 birds from 18 different facilities tested positive for BFDV. The full BFDV genomes from these 43 positive birds were determined, and phylogenetic analysis revealed that these samples harboured a relatively high degree of diversity and that they were highly recombinant. It is evident that there have been multiple introductions of BFDV into Poland over a long period of time, and the close association of different species of birds in the captive environment has probably facilitated the evolution of new BFDV strains through recombination.
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Ebisawa, Kazumasa, Shunya Nakayama, Chungyu Pai, Rie Kinoshita, and Hiroshi Koie. "Prevalence and risk factors for feather-damaging behavior in psittacine birds: Analysis of a Japanese nationwide survey." PLOS ONE 16, no. 7 (2021): e0254610. http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0254610.
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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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Ritchie, Branson W., Frank D. Niagro, Kenneth S. Latimer, et al. "Antibody response to and maternal immunity from an experimental psittacine beak and feather disease vaccine." American Journal of Veterinary Research 53, no. 9 (1992): 1512–18. http://dx.doi.org/10.2460/ajvr.1992.53.09.1512.
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SUMMARY Adult umbrella cockatoos, Moluccan cockatoos, African grey parrots, and a yellow-headed Amazon parrot were inoculated im or sc with β-propiolactone-treated psittacine beak and feather disease (pbfd) virus. Thirty- to 45-day-old African grey parrot, umbrella cockatoo, and sulphur-crested cockatoo chicks also were vaccinated with the same inoculum. The hemagglutination inhibition (hi) and agar-gel diffusion tests were used to assay for post-vaccination development of anti-pbfd virus antibodies. All adult vaccinates seroconverted and had increases in hi and precipitating antibodies. The vaccinated chicks had increased concentrations of hi antibodies, but precipitating antibodies could not be detected. To demonstrate that chicks from vaccinated hens are protected from pbfd virus challenge, 3 African grey parrot chicks and 2 umbrella cockatoo chicks from vaccinated hens and 1 African grey parrot chick and 1 umbrella cockatoo chick from nonvaccinated hens were exposed to purified pbfd virus. Chicks from the vaccinated hens remained clinically normal during the 50-day test period. Chicks from the nonvaccinated hens developed clinical and histologic lesions of pbfd. Infected tissues from these birds were confirmed to contain viral antigen, using immunohistochemical staining techniques. The pbfd virus was recovered from the affected birds. These findings indicate that adult and 30- to 45-day-old psittacine birds will seroconvert following vaccination with β-propiolactone-treated pbfd virus. Also, hens inoculated with β-propiolactone-treated pbfd virus produce chicks that are, at least temporarily, resistant to virus challenge.
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Vaz, Frederico Fontanelli, Elenise Angelotti Bastos Sipinski, Gláucia Helena Fernandes Seixas, Nêmora Pauletti Prestes, Jaime Martinez, and Tânia Freitas Raso. "Molecular Survey of Pathogens in Wild Amazon Parrot Nestlings: Implications for Conservation." Diversity 13, no. 6 (2021): 272. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/d13060272.
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South America presents the greatest Psittacidae diversity in the world, but also has the highest numbers of threatened parrot species. Recently, exotic viruses have been detected in captive native psittacine birds in Brazil, however, their impacts on the health of wild parrots are still unknown. We evaluated the presence of Chlamydia psittaci, Psittacid alphaherpesvirus 1 (PsHV-1), avipoxvirus and beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) in wild Amazona aestiva, A. brasiliensis and A. pretrei nestlings and in wild caught A. aestiva nestlings seized from illegal trade. Samples were collected from 205 wild nestlings and 90 nestlings from illegal trade and pathogen-specific PCR was performed for each sample. Chlamydia DNA prevalence was 4.7% in A. aestiva and 2.5% in A. brasiliensis sampled from the wild. Sequencing revealed that the C. psittaci sample belonged to the genotype A. PsHV-1, avipoxvirus and BFDV DNA was not detected. These results have conservation implications since they suggest that wild parrot populations have a low prevalence of the selected pathogens and, apparently, they were not reached by the exotic BFDV. Stricter health protocols should be established as condition to reintroduction of birds to the wild to guarantee the protection of Neotropical parrots.
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Kubiak, Marie. "Feather plucking in parrots." In Practice 37, no. 2 (2015): 87–95. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/inp.h234.
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Morinha, Francisco, Martina Carrete, José L. Tella, and Guillermo Blanco. "High Prevalence of Novel Beak and Feather Disease Virus in Sympatric Invasive Parakeets Introduced to Spain From Asia and South America." Diversity 12, no. 5 (2020): 192. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/d12050192.
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The psittacine beak and feather disease (PBFD) is a globally widespread infectious bird disease that mainly affects species within the Order Psittaciformes (parrots and allies). The disease is caused by an avian circovirus (the beak and feather disease virus, BFDV), which is highly infectious and can lead to severe consequences in wild and captive populations during an outbreak. Both legal and illegal trading have spread the BFDV around the world, although little is known about its prevalence in invasive parrot populations. Here, we analyze the BFDV prevalence in sympatric invasive populations of rose-ringed (Psittacula krameri) and monk parakeets (Myiopsitta monachus) in Southern Spain. We PCR-screened 110 blood samples (55 individuals from each species) for BFDV and characterized the genotypes of five positives from each species. About 33% of rose-ringed parakeets and 37% of monk parakeets sampled were positive for BFDV, while neither species showed disease symptoms. The circovirus identified is a novel BFDV genotype common to both species, similar to the BFDV genotypes detected in several parrot species kept in captivity in Saudi Arabia, South Africa and China. Our data evidences the importance of an accurate evaluation of avian diseases in wild populations, since invasive parrots may be bringing BFDV without showing any visually detectable clinical sign. Further research on the BFDV prevalence and transmission (individual–individual, captive–wild and wild–captive) in different bird orders and countries is crucial to understand the dynamics of the viral infection and minimize its impact in captive and wild populations.
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Harkinezhad, Taher, Kristel Verminnen, Caroline Van Droogenbroeck, and Daisy Vanrompay. "Chlamydophila psittaci genotype E/B transmission from African grey parrots to humans." Journal of Medical Microbiology 56, no. 8 (2007): 1097–100. http://dx.doi.org/10.1099/jmm.0.47157-0.
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Thirty-six birds from a parrot relief and breeding centre, as well as the manager, were examined for the presence of Chlamydophila psittaci. In the relief unit, 5 of 20 African grey parrots showed depression, ruffled feathers, loss of weight and mild dyspnoea. The birds received no antibiotic treatment. Birds of the breeding unit, 14 blue and gold macaws and 2 green-winged macaws, were healthy. They received doxycycline at the start of each breeding season. The manager complained of shortness of breath but took no medication. Using a nested PCR enzyme immunoassay (EIA), Cp. psittaci was detected in the faeces of all five sick birds, as well as in a nasal and pharyngeal swab from the manager. The veterinarian and her assistant became infected while sampling the parrots, as pharyngeal and nasal swabs from both were positive by nested PCR/EIA after visiting the parrot relief and breeding centre, but they showed no clinical signs of infection. Bacteria could be isolated from three of five nested PCR/EIA-positive birds, the manager and the veterinarian, but not from the veterinary assistant. Using an ompA genotype-specific real-time PCR, Cp. psittaci genotype E/B was identified as the transmitted strain. All breeding birds tested negative for Cp. psittaci. This is believed to be the first report on Cp. psittaci genotype E/B transmission from parrots to humans. In contradiction to genotype A strains, which are thought to be highly virulent to both birds and men, the currently described genotype E/B strain apparently caused no severe clinical symptoms in either parrots or humans.
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Elnomrosy, Sara M., Naglaa M. Hagag, Mohamed I. AbdAllah, Rafał Kolenda, and Maciej Zacharski. "Application of Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) in Sex Identification of Parrots Bred in Egypt." Biology 11, no. 4 (2022): 565. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/biology11040565.
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Over 400 of the 3800 tropical avian species are endangered or threatened. One of many solutions to conserve animal biodiversity is breeding animals in zoos or private animal farms. Animal breeding programs are difficult to implement in species with sexual monomorphism, such as parrots. Molecular biology methods offer a solution to determine the sex of these species. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to test the performance of PCR and LAMP techniques on sex identification for 21 parrot species belonging to three families, i.e., Psittacidae, Cacatuidae, and Psittaculidae. We established a protocol for DNA isolation from feathers in our laboratory and found optimal conditions for PCR and LAMP. We showed that the LAMP method with the use of the PSI-W primers set, developed by Centeno-Cuadros, functions in 17 previously untested species. Moreover, we found that further improvements are required in universal LAMP primers for the detection of parrot DNA, which are necessary for confirmation of the male sex. The LAMP method also proved to be more sensitive for female sex identification in contrast to the reference PCR test. Therefore, we conclude that LAMP is a suitable method for the routine diagnostic sex identification of parrots.
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Salavati, Ali, Zahra Talebi, Maryam Mahdipour, Iman Shojaei, and Seyed Mostafa Peighambari. "Diagnosis and treatment of hepatic lipidosis in a 42-year-old gray parrot: A case report." Journal of Poultry Sciences and Avian Diseases 1, no. 1 (2023): 34–39. http://dx.doi.org/10.61838/kman.jpsad.1.1.4.
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The African grey parrot (Psittacus erithacus) is among the world's most well-known seed-eating cage birds. A grain-eating diet has been reported to cause liver lipidosis in parrots. Fatty liver syndrome occurs when the liver cannot metabolize and re-secrete processed fatty acids due to excessive dietary fatty acids or lipolysis. The present study involves a 42-year-old African grey parrot with extensive feather pecking in the neck, legs, and chest areas, red color changes in the feathers on the legs, and lethargy. The patient's medical history includes the consumption of sugar, chocolate, and whole grains, which is the main reason for metabolic disorders. A comprehensive evaluation of serum biochemistry, total protein levels, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), creatine kinase (CK), triglycerides, and uric acid was conducted on the first visit. Following two weeks of treatment, the bird was again referred to the clinic for clinical pathological evaluation and diagnostic imaging. Different liver medicines, such as herbal antioxidants, vitamins, and amino acid supplements, are prescribed during the treatment process. In addition, the bird's diet was modified. Following the diet and treatment, the blood parameters reached normal limits. The echogenicity of liver tissue was close to normal after the initial observation of feathers regrowing in some areas, as well as blood sample evaluation. A paraclinical test was taken on the bird again after two months of treatment to ensure the disease did not recur. Diligent care, nutritional support, veterinary monitoring, and appropriate medications can improve hepatic lipidosis, but permanent damage may occur. Therefore, it is very critical to quickly diagnose and prevent the recurrence of the illness.
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Capriles, José M., Calogero M. Santoro, Richard J. George, et al. "Pre-Columbian transregional captive rearing of Amazonian parrots in the Atacama Desert." Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 118, no. 15 (2021): e2020020118. http://dx.doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2020020118.
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The feathers of tropical birds were one of the most significant symbols of economic, social, and sacred status in the pre-Columbian Americas. In the Andes, finely produced clothing and textiles containing multicolored feathers of tropical parrots materialized power, prestige, and distinction and were particularly prized by political and religious elites. Here we report 27 complete or partial remains of macaws and amazon parrots from five archaeological sites in the Atacama Desert of northern Chile to improve our understanding of their taxonomic identity, chronology, cultural context, and mechanisms of acquisition. We conducted a multiproxy archaeometric study that included zooarchaeological analysis, isotopic dietary reconstruction, accelerated mass spectrometry radiocarbon dating, and paleogenomic analysis. The results reveal that during the Late Intermediate Period (1100 to 1450 CE), Atacama oasis communities acquired scarlet macaws (Ara macao) and at least five additional translocated parrot species through vast exchange networks that extended more than 500 km toward the eastern Amazonian tropics. Carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes indicate that Atacama aviculturalists sustained these birds on diets rich in marine bird guano-fertilized maize-based foods. The captive rearing of these colorful, exotic, and charismatic birds served to unambiguously signal relational wealth in a context of emergent intercommunity competition.
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Fogell, Deborah J., Simon Tollington, Vikash Tatayah, et al. "Evolution of Beak and Feather Disease Virus across Three Decades of Conservation Intervention for Population Recovery of the Mauritius Parakeet." Diversity 13, no. 11 (2021): 584. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/d13110584.
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Emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) are key contributors to the current global biodiversity crisis. Psittaciformes (parrots) are one of the most vulnerable avian taxa and psittacine beak and feather disease (PBFD) is the most common viral disease in wild parrots. PBFD is caused by the beak and feather disease virus (BFDV), which belongs to the Circoviridae family and comprises a circular, single-stranded DNA genome. BFDV is considered to have spread rapidly across the world and, in 2005, an outbreak of PBFD was documented in the recovering population of the Mauritius parakeet (Alexandrinus eques). The Mauritius parakeet was once the world’s rarest parrot and has been successfully recovered through 30 years of intensive conservation management. Molecular surveillance for the prevalence of BFDV was carried out across a 24-year sample archive spanning the period from 1993 to 2017, and DNA sequencing of positive individuals provided an opportunity to assess patterns of phylogenetic and haplotype diversity. Phylogenetic analyses show variation in the extent of viral diversification within the replicase protein (Rep). Timeseries of BFDV prevalence and number of haplotypes reveal that two subsequent waves of infection occurred in 2010/2011 and 2013/2014 following the initial outbreak in 2005. Continued disease surveillance to determine the frequency and intensity of subsequent waves of infection may benefit future translocation/reintroduction planning. The continued growth of the Mauritius parakeet population despite the presence of BFDV bodes well for its long-term persistence.
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Barnsley, Jonathan E., Elliot J. Tay, Keith C. Gordon, and Daniel B. Thomas. "Frequency dispersion reveals chromophore diversity and colour-tuning mechanism in parrot feathers." Royal Society Open Science 5, no. 7 (2018): 172010. http://dx.doi.org/10.1098/rsos.172010.
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Variation in animal coloration is often viewed as the result of chemically distinct pigments conferring different hues. The role of molecular environment on hue tends to be overlooked as analyses are mostly performed on free pigments extracted from the integument. Here we analysed psittacofulvin pigments within parrot feathers to explore whether the in situ organization of pigments may have an effect on hue. Resonance Raman spectra from a red region of a yellow-naped amazon Amazona auropalliata tail feather show frequency dispersion, a phenomenon that is related to the presence of a range of molecular conformations (and multiple chromophores) in the pigment, whereas spectra from a yellow region on the same feather do not show the same evidence for multiple chromophores. Our findings are consistent with non-isomeric psittacofulvin pigments behaving as a single chromophore in yellow feather barbs, which implies that psittacofulvins are dispersed into a structurally disordered mixture in yellow feathers compared with red feathers. Frequency dispersion in red barbs may instead indicate that pigments are structurally organized through molecule–molecule interactions. Major differences in the hues of parrot feathers are thus associated with differences in the organization of pigments within feathers.
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Avdiyuk, K. V., та L. D. Varbanets. "Substrate Specificity of Bacillus megaterium UСM B-5710 Keratinase". Mikrobiolohichnyi Zhurnal 85, № 5 (2023): 3–11. http://dx.doi.org/10.15407/microbiolj85.05.003.
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The specifics of the processing of livestock and poultry products is that in the process of obtaining the main marketable products, about half the feedstock at various stages of the technological process turns into waste that pollutes the environment. These by-products contain large amounts of the hard-to-digest keratin protein. The use of specific enzymes capable of degrading this protein helps not only to reduce the negative anthropogenic impact on nature but also to obtain valuable hydrolysates that can be used as a fertilizer for plants or a feed additive. The aim of this work was to study the ability of Bacillus megaterium UCM B-5710 to split various keratin-containing substrates: black and white chicken feathers, white turkey feathers, parrot feathers of various colors, sheep wool, pig bristles, and baby hair and nails. Methods. The culture was grown under conditions of submerged cultivation at 40 °C, with a nutrient medium stirring rate of 201 rpm for 6 days. For growth, a basic nutrient medium containing 0.5% defatted chicken feathers or other keratin-containing substrates as sole sources of carbon and nitrogen were used. Keratinase activity was assessed by UV absorption at 280 nm of hydrolysis products of keratin-containing raw materials. Protein was determined by the Lowry method, caseinolytic (total proteolytic) activity was determined by the Anson method modified by Petrova, and amino acid content was determined by the ninhydrin method. The degree of hydrolysis of the substrates was evaluated by the ratio of the initial and final weight of the substrate. Results. It was shown that the synthesis of keratinase by the culture of B. megaterium UCM B-5710 begins from the 6th hour of cultivation. The level of protein and proteolytic activity and the content of amino acids increased throughout the entire period of culture growth. The supernatant of the culture liquid of B. megaterium UCM B-5710 was most effective in splitting white chicken’s and turkey’s feathers, a little slower — feathers of black chicken and blue parrots, as well as wool of white sheep. According to the degree of splitting, the substrates used can be arranged in the following order: white turkey feathers > white chicken feathers > black chicken feathers > blue parrot feathers > white sheep wool > baby nails > pig bristle > baby hair. The study of the effect of feather color on the resistance to decomposition showed that black, blue, and red feathers are more resistant, which coincides with the literature data. Conclusions. B. megaterium UCM B-5710 produces keratinase capable of splitting both α- and β-keratins, however, with different efficiencies and rates.
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Bottinelli, Marco, Andrea Fortin, Claudia Zanardello, et al. "Herpetic Pneumonia in Indian Ringneck Parrots (Psittacula krameri): First Report of Novel Psittacid Alphaherpesvirus-5 Infection in Europe." Animals 12, no. 2 (2022): 188. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ani12020188.
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The first two European outbreaks of herpetic pneumonia caused by Psittacid alphaherpesvirus-5 were diagnosed based on gross pathology findings, histological examination, transmission electron microscopy visualization and genome sequencing. The outbreaks, characterized by high morbidity and high mortality rates, involved two parrot species, namely the Indian ringneck parrot (Psittacula krameri) and the Alexandrine parakeet (Psittacula eupatria). Clinical signs observed were ruffled feathers, dyspnea, tail bobbing, open wings while breathing, depression and anorexia. Necropsy was performed on Indian ringneck parrots only, and the most evident and serious gross lesion found in all the birds was a diffuse marked consolidation of the lungs associated with parenchyma congestion and oedema. Histological examination confirmed the existence of bronchopneumonia characterized by the presence of syncytial cells with intranuclear inclusion bodies. In one bird, fibrinous airsacculitis was observed as well. Lung tissue inspection through electron microscopy revealed the presence of virus particles resembling herpesviruses. Viral DNA was extracted, amplified using primers for Alloherpesviridae DNA polymerase gene detection, and then sequenced. BLAST analysis showed a 100% identity with the only previously reported sequence of PsHV-5 (MK955929.1).
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van Zeeland, Yvonne R. A., Nico J. Schoemaker, and Johannes T. Lumeij. "Contrafreeloading Indicating the Behavioural Need to Forage in Healthy and Feather Damaging Grey Parrots." Animals 13, no. 16 (2023): 2635. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ani13162635.
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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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Zhang, Xueping, Hongxiang Liu, Jiayu Shi, et al. "A Meta-Analysis of Global Prevalence of Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease Virus Infection and Associated Risk Factors." Animals 15, no. 10 (2025): 1473. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15101473.
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Beak and feather disease virus is a member of the family Circoviridae, and among birds, parrots are susceptible hosts. This study reported the global molecular prevalence and risk factors of BFDV infection in parrot species. Relevant studies were identified from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and WanFang databases. We retrieved 30 studies encompassing 16,901 parrots from 30 species across six continents and 34 countries, all published between 2003 and 2024. The results showed that the global molecular prevalence of BFDV, based on eligible areas, was 16.30% (95% CI, 11.40–22.00%) using a random-effects model. Subgroup analysis showed that there were significant differences among genera, with Agapornis having the highest prevalence of 26.60% (95% CI, 9.80–46.50%). There were significant differences in prevalence rates among the four sampling methods (p < 0.01) (blood, cloacal swabs, feather, and fecal). Blood samples exhibited the lowest prevalence at 11.2% (95% CI: 4.4–20.7%), suggesting that BFDV prevalence may be underestimated if only blood tests are used. In regions with distinct seasonal variation, the prevalence of BFDV (3.80%, 95% CI: 0.10–11.10%) was notably lower in summer, but higher in spring and autumn. Age subgroup prevalence varied significantly, with young birds having the highest prevalence at 22.5% (95% CI, 8.8–39.6%). No significant differences in the prevalence of BFDV were observed based on sex or sampling time. This study indicated that the global molecular prevalence of BFDV infection has increased in recent years, and that species, season, sampling methods and age are the main risk factors. By monitoring BFDV prevalence, identifying high-risk species, and elucidating key risk factors, we can develop targeted management strategies to mitigate viral transmission.
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KazemiLifshagerd, Farzin, Omid BehrouziNasab, Alireza Koochakzadeh, and Majid Kazemnezhad. "Evaluation of Giardiasis in Companion Birds in Mashhad, Iran." Journal of World’s Poultry Science 2, no. 3 (2023): 20–23. http://dx.doi.org/10.58803/jwps.v2i3.16.
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Introduction: Giardia spp. are parasitic protozoans that infect the digestive system of ornamental birds, especially in Psittaciformes, with different prevalence in various species. Symptoms of Giardia infection vary from no noticeable signs in adult birds to poor growth, weakness, anorexia, ruffled feathers, and diarrhea in chicks. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of giardiasis in some parrots referred to a private veterinary clinic in Mashhad, Iran, during 2022. Case report: Feces of 215 birds suspected of being infected with Giardia spp. were collected. The birds were visited at one of the clinics in Mashhad, Iran, in 2022. Wet smear was prepared from their fresh feces and then sent to the laboratory department of the clinic for diagnosis. The parrots included adult cockatiels, cockatiel chicks, lovebirds, African grey parrots, and Green-cheeked parakeets. After the final diagnosis, metronidazole was administered orally at a dosage of 50 milligrams per kilogram of body weight every 12 hours for 5 consecutive days. Sick birds were tested again after the treatment to confirm they were parasite-free. The obtained results of the laboratory indicated 60 positive Cockatiels (47.6%), 10 positive cockatiel chicks (43.4%), 4 positive lovebirds (14.2%), 2 Green-cheeked parakeets (8.6%), and only 1 positive African grey parrot (6.6%). Among the positive cases, the severity of infection varied, with some birds showing severe, moderate, or mild infection levels. Upon a second examination, birds with mild and moderate contamination were found to be disease-free, while those with severe contamination required further treatment. Conclusion: The results suggested that treatment with metronidazole for 5 consecutive days was effective against mild to moderate infection in sick parrots. However, birds with severe conditions need to continue the treatment procedure.
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Marciniak-Musial, Natalia, Maciej Skoracki, Jakub Z. Kosicki, Markus Unsöld, and Bozena Sikora. "Host-Parasite Relationships of Quill Mites (Syringophilidae) and Parrots (Psittaciformes)." Diversity 15, no. 1 (2022): 1. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/d15010001.
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The family Syringophilidae (Acari: Prostigmata) includes obligatory ectoparasites, which occupy feather quills from various parts of avian plumage, where they feed and reproduce. Our study was concerned with the global fauna of syringophilid mites associated with Psittaciformes, as well as host-parasite specificity and evolution. We assumed that the system composed of quill mites and parrots represents a model group that can be used in a broader study of the relationships between parasites and hosts. In total, we examined 1524 host individuals of parrots belonging to 195 species, 73 genera, and 4 families (which constitute ca. 50% of global parrot fauna) from all zoogeographical regions where Psittaciformes occur. Among them, 89 individuals representing 81 species have been infested by quill mites belonging to 45 species and 8 genera. The prevalence of host infestations by syringophilid mites varied from 2.8% to 100% (95% confidence interval (CI Sterne method) = 0.1–100). We applied a bipartite analysis to determine the parasite-host interaction, network indices, and host specificity at the species and whole network levels. The Syringophilidae-Psittaciformes network was composed of 24 mite species and 47 host species. The bipartite network was characterized by a high network level specialization H2′ = 0.98, connectance C = 0.89, and high modularity Q = 0.90, with 23 modules, but low nestedness N = 0.0333. Moreover, we reconstructed the phylogeny of the quill mites on the generic level, and this analysis shows two distinct clades: Psittaciphilus (Peristerophila + Terratosyringophilus) (among Syringophilinae subfamily) and Lawrencipicobia (Pipicobia + Rafapicobia) (among Picobiinae). Finally, the distributions and host-parasite relationships in the system composed of syringophilid mites and parrots are discussed.
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Lam, Derek Kong, Emily Shui Kei Poon, and Simon Yung Wa Sin. "Temporal Characterization of the Viral Load of Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease Virus in Rosy-Faced Lovebirds (Agapornis roseicollis)." Birds 5, no. 3 (2024): 417–27. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/birds5030028.
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Psittacine beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) is a widespread and highly pathogenic virus in parrots. The disease typically presents with feather and beak abnormalities, along with possible immune system suppression. No cure or commercialized vaccine is currently available. Our understanding of the Psittacine beak and feather disease often comes from infected individuals with visible symptoms. Limited knowledge exists regarding the pathology and role of asymptomatic individuals in disease transmission. Asymptomatic individuals could shed the virus in their crop secretion, feces, or feathers. In this study, we investigated the temporal change in the viral load in feather and fecal samples from 17 asymptomatic Rosy-faced Lovebirds (Agapornis roseicollis) using qPCR. Our results showed that most of the individuals had very low viral load, while three individuals with high viral load at the beginning of the experiment were observed to exhibit a decreasing trend in viral load in both fecal and feather samples. Surprisingly, the viral load in an individual can drop from a high level to an undetectable level within three months. This suggests that BFDV infection might not be lethal or highly pathogenic for some individuals. We also showed that the viral load in feathers was higher than in feces.
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VUCICEVIC, M., I. VUCICEVIC, D. DAVITKOV, et al. "Detection and analysis of new psittacine beak and feather disease virus (PBFDv) nucleotide sequences." Journal of the Hellenic Veterinary Medical Society 68, no. 4 (2018): 653. http://dx.doi.org/10.12681/jhvms.16070.
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Psittacine beak and feather disease (PBFD) affects a large number of Psittaciformes species. In this study, five White Cockatoo parrots (Cacatua alba) with clinical signs of PBFD were examined. After euthanasia, a full necropsy of parrots was performed and organs with macroscopic changes were sampled for routine histopathological evaluation. To confirm the presence of psittacine beak and feather disease virus (PBFDv), feather samples were analyzed with the PCR method. Sequence analysis of the obtained PCR products indicated their close relationship (99%) to other PBFDv isolates. Six variable nucleotide sites were discovered, two missense and four silent mutations. This paper presents the evidence of new PBFDv sequence in Cockatoo species.
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Rigano, L., M. Picardo, E. Pini, et al. "Novel retinol-like actives from parrots feathers." International Journal of Cosmetic Science 31, no. 6 (2009): 477–78. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-2494.2009.00530_3.x.
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Ortiz-Catedral, Luis, Connor J. Wallace, Robert Heinsohn, et al. "A PCR-Based Retrospective Study for Beak and Feather Disease Virus (BFDV) in Five Wild Populations of Parrots from Australia, Argentina and New Zealand." Diversity 14, no. 2 (2022): 148. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/d14020148.
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The beak and feather disease virus (family Circovirdae) is a virus of concern in the conservation of wild Psittaciformes globally. We conducted a PCR screening for the beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) using samples collected during previous field studies (1993–2014) in five populations of parrots of the Southern Hemisphere: Eclectus parrots (Eclectus roratus) and Crimson rosellas (Platycercus elegans) from Australia, Burrowing parrots (Cyanoliseus patagonus) and Monk parakeets from Argentina (Myiopsitta monachus), and Forbes’ parakeet from New Zealand (Cyanoramphus forbesi). A total of 612 samples were screened. BFDV was not detected in any of the sampled birds. Our results provide a retrospective screening, covering three different tribes of Old and New World parrots, including two of the most numerous species, and contributing a large set of negative results. Furthermore, our results suggest that geographical and temporal differences in BFDV distribution may exist and merit further research, as a critical component in the efforts to manage the disease and its epidemiological aspects. The results presented here hold the potential to provide a baseline for future studies investigating the temporal evolution and the spread of BFDV.
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Seibold-Torres, Cassandra, Elaine Owens, Renuka Chowdhary, Malcolm A. Ferguson-Smith, Ian Tizard, and Terje Raudsepp. "Comparative Cytogenetics of the Congo African Grey Parrot (Psittacus erithacus)." Cytogenetic and Genome Research 147, no. 2-3 (2015): 144–53. http://dx.doi.org/10.1159/000444136.
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The Congo African grey parrot (Psittacus erithacus, PER) is an endemic species of Central Africa, valued for its intelligence and listed as vulnerable due to poaching and habitat destruction. Improved knowledge about the P. erithacus genome is needed to address key biological questions and conservation of this species. The P. erithacus genome was studied using conventional and molecular cytogenetic approaches including Zoo-FISH. P. erithacus has a ‘typical' parrot karyotype with 2n = 62-64 and 8 pairs of macrochromosomes. A distinct feature was a sharp macro-microchromosome boundary. Telomeric sequences were present at all chromosome ends and interstitially in PER2q, the latter coinciding with a C-band. NORs mapped to 4 pairs of microchromosomes which is in contrast to a single NOR in ancestral type avian karyotypes. Zoo-FISH with chicken macrochromosomes GGA1-9 and Z revealed patterns of conserved synteny similar to many other avian groups, though neighboring synteny combinations of GGA6/7, 8/9, and 1/4 were distinctive only to parrots. Overall, P. erithacus shared more Zoo-FISH patterns with neotropical macaws than Australian species such as cockatiel and budgerigar. The observations suggest that Psittaciformes karyotypes have undergone more extensive evolutionary rearrangements compared to the majority of other avian genomes.
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Reed, Steven, Richard K. Simpson, and Kevin J. McGraw. "Feather morphological predictors of angle-dependent color changes in parrot plumage." Avian Biology Research 13, no. 4 (2020): 108–17. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1758155920963198.
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Among the most ornate animal traits in nature are the angle-dependent (e.g. iridescent) structural colors of many fishes, damselflies, birds, beetles, and butterflies. Though we now have a solid understanding of the mechanisms that create angle-dependent coloration in several groups, we know little about whether pigmentary colors reflect light in an angle-dependent fashion or if similar or different mechanisms govern angle-dependent reflectance from pigmentary versus structural colors. Here for the first time we describe non-iridescent angle-dependent coloration from the tail and wing feathers of several parrot species (Aves: Psittaciformes). We employed a novel approach—by calculating chromatic and achromatic contrasts (in just noticeable differences, JNDs) of straight and angled measurements of the same feather patch—to test for perceptually relevant angle-dependent changes in coloration on dorsal and ventral feather surfaces. We found, among the 15 parrot species studied, significant angle dependence for seven of our eight feather JND parameters. We then measured micro-scale features on each side of feathers, including size and color of barbs and barbules, to attempt to predict interspecific variation in degree of angle-dependent reflectance. We found that barb height, plumage-color type (e.g. melanin, structural), and differences between barb-barbule coloration (measured using Euclidean distances) were the strongest predictors of angle-dependent coloration. Interestingly, there was no significant phylogenetic signal in any of the angle-dependence models tested. These findings deepen our views on the importance of microscopic feather features in the production of directional animal coloration, especially in tissues that are colored predominantly by pigments and appear to be statically colored.
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Philadelpho Azevedo, Natalia, Marta Brito Guimarães, and Antônio José Piantino Ferreira. "Circovirus and polyomavirus in psittacine – review." Clínica Veterinária XX, no. 114 (2015): 72–80. http://dx.doi.org/10.46958/rcv.2015.xx.n.114.p.72-80.
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The circovirus (BFDV) and the avian polyomavirus (APV) are common viral agents that threaten parrots in captivity. The first APV infection in birds has been described in young Australian budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus), being since associated with high mortality and morbidity in other psittacines. The BFDV is the causative agent of beak and feathers disease, which occurs almost exclusively in psittacines, birds from the order Psittaciformes, especially in aviaries, quarantine facilities and pet stores. Both diseases cause feather alterations, nonspecific clinical signs and sudden death. The similarity of the clinical presentation of these agents makes it difficult to obtain a diagnosis without laboratory results. This paper reviews the literature on these viroses and compares both diseases.
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van Zeeland, Yvonne R. A., Madeleine J. Bergers, Lisette van der Valk, Nico J. Schoemaker, and Johannes T. Lumeij. "Evaluation of a novel feather scoring system for monitoring feather damaging behaviour in parrots." Veterinary Journal 196, no. 2 (2013): 247–52. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.tvjl.2012.08.020.
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Choe, Daegyu, Eunjeong Choi, and Dong Keun Kim. "The Real-Time Mobile Application for Classifying of Endangered Parrot Species Using the CNN Models Based on Transfer Learning." Mobile Information Systems 2020 (March 9, 2020): 1–13. http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2020/1475164.
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Among the many deep learning methods, the convolutional neural network (CNN) model has an excellent performance in image recognition. Research on identifying and classifying image datasets using CNN is ongoing. Animal species recognition and classification with CNN is expected to be helpful for various applications. However, sophisticated feature recognition is essential to classify quasi-species with similar features, such as the quasi-species of parrots that have a high color similarity. The purpose of this study is to develop a vision-based mobile application to classify endangered parrot species using an advanced CNN model based on transfer learning (some parrots have quite similar colors and shapes). We acquired the images in two ways: collecting them directly from the Seoul Grand Park Zoo and crawling them using the Google search. Subsequently, we have built advanced CNN models with transfer learning and trained them using the data. Next, we converted one of the fully trained models into a file for execution on mobile devices and created the Android package files. The accuracy was measured for each of the eight CNN models. The overall accuracy for the camera of the mobile device was 94.125%. For certain species, the accuracy of recognition was 100%, with the required time of only 455 ms. Our approach helps to recognize the species in real time using the camera of the mobile device. Applications will be helpful for the prevention of smuggling of endangered species in the customs clearance area.
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Owen, D. J., and J. M. Lane. "High levels of corticosterone in feather-plucking parrots (Psittacus erithacus)." Veterinary Record 158, no. 23 (2006): 804–5. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/vr.158.23.804.
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Mack, Andrew L., and Debra D. Wright. "The Vulturine Parrot, Psittrichas fulgidus, a threatened New Guinea endemic: notes on its biology and conservation." Bird Conservation International 8, no. 2 (1998): 185–94. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0959270900003257.
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SummaryVulturine Parrots Psittrichas fulgidus are endemic to the island of New Guinea. A review of the literature and specimen holdings indicate the species mostly occurs 500 to 1800 m a.s.l. Observations suggest the species occurs in low densities. The species is a highly specialized frugivore feeding on just a few species of figs (Ficus, Moraceae). These parrots are heavily exploited (often by destroying scarce nesting cavities) in Papua New Guinea for their feathers, used in traditional adornment. This practice might not be sustainable and four possible conservation measures are suggested: (1) increase field studies; (2) restrict transport of live birds on domestic flights; (3) replace use of Psittrichas feathers with dyed chicken feathers; (4) instruct tourists not to purchase handicrafts containing Psittrichas or other animal parts.
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MIRONOV, SERGEY V., and JACEK DABERT. "Systematic revision of the feather mite genus Protolichus Trouessart, 1884 (Astigmata, Pterolichidae)." Zootaxa 2526, no. 1 (2010): 1. http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.2526.1.1.
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Based on the type materials deposited in the Trouessart collection (Museum national d'Histoire naturelle, Paris, France), the six formerly known species of the feather mite genus Protolichus Megnin et Trouessart, 1884 (Pterolichidae: Pterolichinae) are redescribed: Protolichus brachiatus Trouessart, 1884, P. magnificus Favette et Trouessart, 1904, P. strangulatus Favette et Trouessart, 1904 (brachiatus group), P. casuarius Trouessart, 1884, P. crassior Trouessart, 1884, and P. gratus Favette et Trouessart, 1904 (crassior group). One new species of the brachiatus group found in the examined materials is described: Protolichus sigillator sp. n. from Chalcopsitta scintillata chloroptera (Salvadori, 1876) (Psittacidae: Loriinae). A new expanded diagnosis for the genus Protolichus is provided and a key to all known species is constructed for the first time. Known host associations of Protolichus species with parrots of the Old World are critically revised. Mites of this genus are apparently restricted to lories and lorikeets (Loriinae) distributed in the Australian and Indo Malayan regions, particularly to representatives of the genera Chalcopsitta, Charmosyna, Lorius, Pseudeos, and Trichoglossus, while other formerly recorded hosts, including those from other subfamilies of parrots, seem to be results of accidental contaminations.
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Mironov, Sergey V., Rainer Ehrnsberger, and Jacek Dabert. "Feather mites of the genera Dubininia and Cacatualges (Acari: Xolalgidae) associated with parrots (Aves: Psittaciformes) of the Old World." Zootaxa 4272, no. 4 (2017): 451–90. https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.4272.4.1.
Full textAbstract:
Mironov, Sergey V., Ehrnsberger, Rainer, Dabert, Jacek (2017): Feather mites of the genera Dubininia and Cacatualges (Acari: Xolalgidae) associated with parrots (Aves: Psittaciformes) of the Old World. Zootaxa 4272 (4): 451-490, DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.4272.4.1
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Kulper, Perry. "Silver Parrots: Mischievous Characters and Feathered Aerialists." Architectural Design 88, no. 2 (2018): 84–91. http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/ad.2284.
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Molski, Marcin. "Theoretical Insight into Psittacofulvins and Their Derivatives." Molecules 29, no. 12 (2024): 2760. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/molecules29122760.
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Psittacofulvins are polyenal dyes responsible for coloring parrot feathers and protecting them against photo-oxidation, harmful radicals, and bacterial degradation. To explain the unusual properties of these compounds, the thermodynamic and global chemical activity descriptors characterizing four natural and three synthetic psittacofulvins, as well as their hydroxyl, carboxyl and dialdehyde derivatives, were determined. To this aim, the DFT method at the B3LYP/QZVP theory level and the C-PCM solvation model were used. The calculations enabled the selection of the projected compounds for the greatest bioactivity and potential applicability as multifunctional ingredients in medicines, cosmetics, supplements, and food, in which they may play a triple role as preservative, radical scavenger, and coloring agent. The results obtained provide arguments for the identification of a fifth psittacofulvin within the parrot feather pigment, characterized by ten conjugated double bonds (docosadecaenal).
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Xiong, Wen, Suiquan Zhu, Jian Zhu, et al. "Distribution and impacts of invasive parrot’s feather (Myriophyllum aquaticum) in China." BioInvasions Records 10, no. 4 (2021): 796–804. http://dx.doi.org/10.3391/bir.2021.10.4.04.
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MASELLO, Juan F., María Luján PAGNOSSIN, Thomas LUBJUHN, and Petra QUILLFELDT. "Ornamental non-carotenoid red feathers of wild burrowing parrots." Ecological Research 19, no. 4 (2004): 421–32. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1440-1703.2004.00653.x.
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Eastwood, Justin R., Mathew L. Berg, Briana Spolding, Katherine L. Buchanan, Andrew T. D. Bennett, and Ken Walder. "Prevalence of beak and feather disease virus in wild Platycercus elegans: comparison of three tissue types using a probe-based real-time qPCR test." Australian Journal of Zoology 63, no. 1 (2015): 1. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/zo14052.
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The detection of avian viruses in wild populations has considerable conservation implications. For DNA-based studies, feathers may be a convenient sample type for virus screening and are, therefore, an increasingly common technique. This is despite recent concerns about DNA quality, ethics, and a paucity of data comparing the reliability and sensitivity of feather sampling to other common sample types such as blood. Alternatively, skeletal muscle tissue may offer a convenient sample to collect from dead birds, which may reveal viraemia. Here, we describe a probe-based quantitative real-time PCR for the relative quantification of beak and feather disease virus (BFDV), a pathogen of serious conservation concern for parrots globally. We used this method to test for BFDV in wild crimson rosellas (Platycercus elegans), and compared three different sample types. We detected BFDV in samples from 29 out of 84 individuals (34.5%). However, feather samples provided discordant results concerning virus presence when compared with muscle tissue and blood, and estimates of viral load varied somewhat between different sample types. This study provides evidence for widespread infection of BFDV in wild crimson rosellas, but highlights the importance of sample type when generating and interpreting qualitative and quantitative avian virus data.
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Rosyadi, Irfan, Bambang Tetuka, Eben Embeua, Erfa Mukaram, Nyong Barakai, and Ronal Djorebe. "Perilaku Memelihara Burung Paruh Bengkok di Maluku Utara." Acta VETERINARIA Indonesiana 3, no. 2 (2016): 51–57. http://dx.doi.org/10.29244/avi.3.2.51-57.
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Kajian tentang pemeliharaan burung paruh bengkok di Maluku Utara telah dilaksanakan pada bulan April sampai bulan Juli 2012. Metode pengumpulan data yang digunakan adalah survei dengan melakukan wawancara terhadap 800 responden rumah tangga di 2 kota di Maluku Utara, yaitu Ternate dan Tobelo. Sebanyak 28 pertanyaan diajukan kepada responden terkait kepemilikan burung, cara mendapatkan, cara pemeliharaan, alasan memelihara, serta persepsi terhadap perilaku memelihara burung terkait dengan kelestariannya. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan sebanyak 13,6 % rumah tangga memelihara burung. Jenis yang paling banyak dipelihara adalah burung paruh bengkok, seperti kasturi ternate Lorius garrulus (68,2%), kemudian disusul secara berurut-urut kakatua putih Cacatua alba (10,1 %), nuri bayan Eclectus roratus (7,3 %) dan nuri kalung-ungu Eos squamata (16%), sementara jenis lainnya adalah nuri kepala hitam Lorius lory, serta bukan jenis paruh bengkok seperti julang irian Rhyticeros plicatus, merpati Columba livia, dan pergam kaca mata Ducula perspicillata dengan jumlah kira-kira sama. Alasan memelihara burung paling banyak adalah karena bisa menirukan kata (75,3%). Burung biasanya dipelihara dengan merantai kakinya di gantungan kayu (71%) dan pemelihara juga mencabut bulu sayap burung untuk mencegahnya terbang (34%). Rendahnya pengetahuan terhadap pemeliharaan burung berdampak pada tidak terpenuhinya kesejahteraan burung peliharaan dan rendahnya kesadaran terhadap kelestarian burung menjadi ancaman utama kepunahan burung di alam.Kata kunci: paruh bengkok, perilaku memelihara burung, Maluku Utara, wawancara(Parrot Bird-Keeping in North Maluku)Information of parrots bird keeping in North Maluku is available since the study has been conducted during April until July 2012. We interviewed 800 households in Ternate and Tobelo, North Maluku with total of 28 questions. The Questions were about the ownership of the birds, how to get, reason and how to keep care, as well as the perception of bird conservation related to bird-keeping. The results showed 13.6% of households keeping birds. Chattering lory Lorius garrulus were found to be the most popular pet (68.2%), followed by white cockatoo Cacatua alba (10.1%), eclectus parrot Eclectus roratus (7.3%) and violet-necked lory Eos squamata (16% ), the rest is divided equally respectively black-capped lory Lorius lory, and non-parrot species; blyth’s hornbill Rhyticeros plicatus, rock dove Columba livia, spectacled imperial-pigeon Ducula perspicillata. Birds were usually found with chained legs on wooden hangers (71%) and about 34% bird found with the flight feather hacked off to prevent escape. The concern for animal welfare were relatively low as well as for bird conservation.Keywords: Parrot, bird-keeping, Ternate, Tobelo North Maluku, interview