Abstract
Calcium metabolism in avian species in characterized by several aspects that differentiate it from that found in other vertebrates (Pang et al., 1980b). First, birds develop extra bone in the medullary cavities of the long bones prior to the onset of laying (Simkiss, 1967). This medullary bone, as it is called, may be induced pharmacologically by the injection of both androgen and estrogen to immature birds (Dacke, 1979). Second, domesticated avian species, such as the chicken and the Japanese quail, have the potential for laying an egg daily for extended periods before taking a laying pause. This daily deposition of shell calcium has been estimated to represent approximately 10% of the total body stores of calcium, implying that these avian species must possess efficient and effective mechanisms for maintaining calcium homeostasis. It is likely that these mechanisms are under endocrine control.
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