Domestic Pigeons Research Articles

Expression of MSTN gene and its correlation with pectoralis muscle fiber traits in the domestic pigeons (Columba livia)

Myostatin (MSTN) is a negative regulator of skeletal muscle growth and plays an important role in muscle development. In this research, we constructed a tissue expression profile of the pigeon MSTN gene in eight tissues and a spatio-temporal expression profile in the pectoral muscle using qRT-PCR method. And the pectoralis muscle fiber traits during pigeon post-hatching stages at 1, 7, 14, 21, and 28 D were analyzed through the paraffin sections. Then the correlations between the muscle fiber diameter, cross-sectional area, density, and the expression of MSTN in the pectoral muscle were analyzed. Results showed that MSTN mRNA was mainly expressed in breast muscle, heart, spleen, and kidney and it was almost unexpressed in the liver and lungs. Moreover, the MSTN mRNA expression level in breast muscle was significantly higher than that in other tissues (P < 0.05), and showed an interesting trend that it decreased in the first week and then increased with age. Meanwhile, decrease of myostatin transcripts was accompanied by the down-regulation of Myf5 and the up-regulation of MyoG during the first week post-hatching. In addition, the paraffin sections analysis results revealed that the diameter and cross-sectional area of pectoralis muscle fiber significantly increased with age (P < 0.05), and a significant positive correlation was shown between the MSTN gene expression level and muscle fiber diameter (P < 0.05). These fundamental researches might contribute to further understanding of the roles MSTN played in the post-hatching muscle fiber development in pigeon.

Effects of in ovo feeding of L-lysine on hatchability, hatching time, and early post-hatch development in domestic pigeons (Columba livia)

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of in ovo feeding (IOF) of L-lysine (Lys) on hatchability and development in pigeon neonates. At day 13 of incubation, fertile eggs were injected with 200 μL of sterilized saline (0.75%, SC group), 1% Conc. Lys solution (Lys group, 2.11mg Lys dissolved in 200 μL of sterilized saline), with controls not injected (NCgroup). The results showed that IOF of Lys decreased the hatchability (P < 0.05) compared with other groups, whereas the hatching time was not affected among groups. On day 14 of post-hatch (D14), the body weight (BW) of squabs received Lys IOF was increased relative to the NC group (P < 0.05). Squabs in Lys group exhibited higher (P < 0.05) body weight gain (BWG) than other groups from D14 to day of hatch (DOH). Meanwhile, IOF of Lys increased the brain relative weight on DOH (P < 0.05), and organ index of heart, legs, and gizzard on day 7 of post-hatch (D7) compared with other groups. In addition, the length index of duodenum, jejunum, or ileum had no difference between groups, as well as the weight index except the weight index of duodenum in Lys group was higher than that of SC group on DOH. However, squabs received Lys IOF showed lower villus height, crypt depth, and villus surface area of jejunum than NC group (P < 0.05) on DOH, and lower crypt depth than NC and SC groups on D7. The situation was improved by D14, although there was no significant difference in morphometric trait of jejunum between Lys group and NC group, squabs received Lys IOF showed higher villus height, crypt depth, and villus surface area of jejunum than NC group. In conclusion, the present study demonstrates that IOF of Lys has negative effects on hatchability and development of early post-hatch squabs, but the situation will be improved with the growth of age.

Humeral fracture treatment in pigeons by bone pins made from ovine and canine bones

The tubular, pneumatic long bones of the bird present unique challenges in veterinary orthopedics. Various traditional and innovative forms of fracture fixation have been applied in bird orthopedic. The purpose of this study was to compare the applicability of the stainless steel intra-medullary pin with the pins made from ovine and canine long bones. Ovine and canine long bones were used to prepare pins in appropriate size and dimension. The pins were treated chemically, hydrated, dried, packaged and sterilized by ethylene oxide. Forty domestic male pigeons were divided into four equal groups. Pigeons were anesthetized by combination of xylazine and ketamine. Humeral bones were cut by a diamond disc burr. In the first group the fractured bones were not treated and was regarded as control group. In the second group stainless steel pins were inserted into the humeral medulla of pigeons; and in the third and fourth groups, prepared pins from ovine and canine long bones were inserted into the medulla, respectively. The operated wing was bandaged to the body and stabilized. Post-operative care included: clinical assessment of surgical wound, wing holding and flight assessment. The flight behavioral assessment and radiographic studies were carried out every two weeks for 32 weeks.After 32 weeks the pigeons of the first group were not able to fly, in the second group pigeons had imbalance in flight; and in the third and fourth groups the pigeons were able to fly with no problem. Radiographic study showed no significant differences between groups 2, 3 and 4 but there was a significant difference between group 1 and other three groups. None of the bone pins were rejected; all were absorbed in later stages in large quantities.The IM pins made from long bones of sheep and dog pins can be considered as an appropriate and alternative internal fixation technique, because they are very firm, strong, provide very good internal fixation for bone alignment, showing no tissue sensitivity, no rejection and therefore not necessity to be removed. While the stainless steel IM pin creates imbalance in flight and they have to be removed after bone union is completed, which needs another surgical intervention and stress.

Parasitological and molecular survey of scattered parasitism by trichomonads in some avian species in Iran

ABSTRACT Outbreaks of avian trichomonosis are being reported worldwide; meanwhile, the genetic and virulence variations are under investigation. In this study, the occurrence and genetic variability of oral or faecal trichomonads among various avian species were investigated. Samples obtained from either the oropharyngeal cavity, crop/oesophagus, droppings/cloaca, or conjunctival swabs of avian species were inspected for flagellates. Phylogenetic analysis of partial ITS1-5.8s rRNA-ITS2 sequences from selected samples was performed to investigate the genetic diversity of the isolates. Investigation of 737 birds revealed an infection rate of 15.7% in the upper gastrointestinal tract, 7.3% in the faecal samples, and 0.7% involvement of the conjunctiva. Phylogenetic analysis of partial ITS1-5.8s rRNA-ITS2 sequences from selected samples, identified genotypes A and B of Trichomonas gallinae and genogroups A-C and E of Tetratrichomonas gallinarum. A novel ITS genotype of intestinal trichomonads was also detected in hooded crow (Corvus cornix) and common mynah (Acridotheres tristis). In the present study, in addition to Columbiformes and Falconiformes, trichomonads were detected in Passeriformes and Galliformes with the involvement of organs other than the gastrointestinal tract. Genotype A T. gallinae was detected in domestic pigeons (Columba livia domestica), a laughing dove (Spilopelia senegalensis), a common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus), a budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulates), and a canary (Serinus canaria). Distinct genotype B was detected in a common mynah and a budgerigar. Genogroups A-C of T. gallinarum were also demonstrated in Galliformes and Anseriformes. Furthermore, two novel trichomonad ITS genotypes were detected in hooded crows and a common mynah warranting detailed multi-locus molecular analysis. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS ITS diversity of trichomonads was shown in various avian species. Diversity of the parasites’ target organ and clinical manifestations was demonstrated. Two novel ITS genotype trichomonads from common mynah and hooded crow were identified.

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Histopathological and Serum Enzyme Changes of Propofol Combined with Pre-Anesthetic Agents in Domestic Pigeons (Columba livia)

Objective- Because of the several differences between avian and mammalian physiology and anatomy, avian anesthesia requires to be more attentive. The aim of this study was to determine a safe injectable anesthetic agent that had more compatibility with the avian features. Design- Experimental study Animals- Twelve male pigeons Procedure- The pigeons weighing 302±35 g (mean±SD) were divided into two groups (n=6). In group 1, midazolam (6 mg/kg,-IM) and in group 2, metamizole (500 mg/kg,-IM) were administrated as the pre-anesthetic agents and thereafter, propofol (8 mg/kg,-IV) was injected as the main anesthetic drug in both groups. The serum enzymatic changes were analyzed before and 1 hour after the last injection. Histopathological examinations of the liver and kidneys were also evaluated in terms of possible damages to the tissue. Results- The results of blood biochemistry evaluation in group 1 showed significant changes in the levels of AST and LDH before and after the injections (p 0.05). Conclusion and clinical relevance- Based on the results, metamizole and propofol combination showed that is safer than midazolam and propofol in terms of blood biochemical and histopathological evaluations and is more compatible with pigeons.

Egg quality and egg albumen property of domestic chicken, duck, goose, turkey, quail, and pigeon

Poultry eggs from different species varied significantly, due to their divergent process of evolution. However, the information on egg characteristics has been limited mostly to chicken. The current study compared the egg quality, albumen physical and nutritional property for domesticated chicken, duck, goose, turkey, quail, and pigeon. Egg quality traits among different species differed significantly, such as egg weight (from 11 to 139 g), egg shape (from 1.28 to 1.44), proportion of yolk (from 19.3 to 37.9%), and breaking strength (from 0.91 to 8.04 kg/cm2). For the physical property of albumen gel, pigeon egg was the most special one. The albumen gel of pigeon egg had a transparent appearance (A = 1.23), and it had the highest hardness (121.7 g) and water-holding capacity (96%) but a medium level of total cutting work (440 g⋅s). Hence, it was easy for deformation but was hard to cut off when external force was applied. For nutritional compositions of egg albumen, goose egg had the highest moisture (89.21%) and lowest crude protein (8.5%) contents. Specific to amino acid, glutamic acid was found the most abundant in albumen of all six species. Egg albumen of turkey had the highest quantity of essential amino acids (EAA) and total amino acids (TAA), while duck and goose had relatively higher EAA/TAA ratios. Both PCA and cluster analysis revealed the high similarity of amino acid composition between duck and goose, and among quail, turkey, and chicken. The comparative data will improve the understanding of egg qualities of major poultry species and can be helpful in technological application of egg albumen.

Chemotherapy of gastrointestinal parasitic diseases in domestic pigeons (Columba livia) in Rajshahi division of Bangladesh

The present study was undertaken to find out the prevalence of gastrointestinal nematodes in pigeon (columba livia) at Rajshahi division from 01-01-2016 to 15-12-2016 and to evaluate the comparative efficacy piparazine citrate and levamisole HCL. Total 3 different species of parasites were recorded in this study and those were Ascaridia columbae, Capillilaria obsignata, Raillietina tetragona. Out of 263 pigeon, 109 pigeon having ascarid and capillaria positive were treatment with piparazine citrate and levamisole HCL. The pigeon were treated with recommended (10g mixed in 6 litre drinking water for 100 pigeon) dose of Ascarex® and recommended (1gm mixed in 1 litre drinking water) dose of Avinex® orally, respectively. The recovery rate of ascariasis at 7th days was 50.9% and capillariasis was 51.85%. After 21th days the recovery rate of ascariasis was 72.72% and capillariasis was 66.66%. The efficacy of drugs is more in case of young (77.27% at 7th days and 87.36% at 21th days) than adult (44.82% at 7th days and 65.51% at 21th days).In exotic breeds efficacy is good (60.41% at 7th days and 85.41% at 21th days) than indigenous breeds (44.26% at 7th days and 66.65% at 21th days). The recovery rate is more in traditional (65.3% at 7th days and 78.33% at 21th days) than commercial farming system (42.85% at 7th days and 58.33% at 21th days).&#x0D; Res. Agric., Livest. Fish.6(2): 323-328, August 2019

Additional records of the tropical nest fly, Passeromyia heterochaeta Villeneuve, 1915 (Diptera: Muscidae) from western Iran supported by DNA barcoding

Passeromyia is a genus of flies associated with birds’ nests. Adults of Passeromyia heterochaeta were found within the houses near to domestic pigeon nests in Lorestan Province, western Iran. Flies were identified at the genus level by analysis of COI sequences of a representative specimen. Then, the specimens were identified according to morphological characteristics as P. heterochaeta and the sequence was submitted to the GenBank under this name. DNA barcoding approach can be used for approximate identification before using morphological keys.

Rotavirus A Associated with Clinical Disease and Hepatic Necrosis in California Pigeons (Columba livia domestica).

Retrospective analysis of pigeon necropsy submissions to the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System from 2000 to 2018 revealed 14 submissions diagnosed with rotavirus A hepatic necrosis or "reoviruslike" viral hepatitis. Nine of the 14 submissions (64%) occurred in 2018. Submissions were racing pigeons and squab breeders from flocks with increased mortality. Juvenile and adult pigeons were submitted with a history of depression, diarrhea, regurgitation, labored breathing, and weakness. Flock morbidity peaked at 80% and mortality at 28%. The most consistent findings on postmortem examination were variably congested, mottled, and enlarged livers and spleens. Microscopically, mild to severe hepatic necrosis was observed with variable bile duct hyperplasia, sinusoidal congestion, hemosiderosis, and portal lymphoplasmacytic inflammation. Rotavirus A was detected in hepatocytes and inflammatory cells by immunohistochemistry. Negative-stain electron microscopy identified viral particles consistent with a member of Reoviridae in all negatively stained liver homogenates. Eleven cases were analyzed by reverse transcriptase-PCR targeting rotavirus A viral protein (VP) 6 and VP7 genes. Subsequent phylogenetic analysis of the VP6 and VP7 sequences compared to published Chinese, Nigerian, and German rotavirus A VP6 and VP7 sequences demonstrated the formation of two and three distinct clades, respectively. To the authors' knowledge, rotavirus A hepatic necrosis in pigeons has not been previously reported in the United States and represents a significant emerging disease for the pigeon industry due to the potential for high flock mortality and lost production.

Transcontinental genetic inference of urban pigeon populations using phenotypic markers

Domestic pigeons have high polymorphism in plumage morphs and colours. The genes that affect colour and coat patterns can be used to estimate genetic profiles that allow us to deduce the structures of populations, establish whether they are in a population equilibrium and learn the genetic similarity among them. This article tested these population components and the existing relationships among cities in northern South America, Western Europe and Singapore (Southeast Asia) through the inventory of phenotypic frequencies and the estimation of allele frequencies for the Pattern, Grizzle, Background colour, Spread, Crest, Recessive white and Feathered feet loci. The Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium was evaluated based on the Pattern and Grizzle loci. The results showed a higher genetic diversity in populations from northern South America with respect to the one from Western Europe, although the differentiation among cities was low ( GST = 0.0759). Several populations were not in the Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium for the evaluated loci, and a significant correlation between genetic and geographic distances was not found. The relatively small home range of the pigeons and the dispersion carried out by humans are discussed as possible explanations for the current genetic profiles.

Effects of in ovo injection of L-histidine on hatch performance and post-hatch development in domestic pigeons (Columba livia)

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of in ovo injection of histidine on hatch performance and post-hatch development by determining hatchability, hatching time, BW gain, carcass traits, and intestinal morphology in domestic pigeons (Columba livia). A completely randomized design (n = 3) with a L-histidine injection treatment (His group, 0.55mg histidine dissolved in 200 μL 0.75% saline as 1% Conc compared to total histidine in the egg), a 0.75% saline injection treatment (SC group), and non-injection treatment (NC group) was used. Six squabs from each treatment were randomly sampled at day of hatch (DOH), day 7 (D7), and day 14 (D14) post hatch, respectively. Results showed that in ovo injection of histidine solution increased (P < 0.01) the hatchability in comparison with that of other groups. The hatching time of His group was earlier (P = 0.05) than that of the NC group. In ovo injection of histidine had no influence (P > 0.05) on BW gain and carcass traits, but had a significant effect on the organ index of pigeons. The index of pancreas on DOH, the indices of leg, gizzard, proventriculus, small intestine, and pancreas on D7, and the index of head on D14 were significantly increased (P < 0.05) by injection of histidine. Moreover, in ovo injection of histidine had significant effects on the weight indices of different intestinal segments and jejunal morphology in squabs. Ileum weight index on D7 from His group was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than that of other groups. Compared with the NC group, the jejunal crypt depth on DOH and D7 of His group decreased (P < 0.05), while jejunal villus area and villus crypt ratio on D7 of His group increased (P < 0.05). The results of this study indicate that in ovo injection of histidine may have beneficial effects on squabs' hatchability, intestinal development but have negligible effects on their growth performance during early post-hatch period.

Pigeon foot feathering reveals conserved limb identity networks

The tetrapod limb is a stunning example of evolutionary diversity, with dramatic variation not only among distantly related species, but also between the serially homologous forelimbs (FLs) and hindlimbs (HLs) within species. Despite this variation, highly conserved genetic and developmental programs underlie limb development and identity in all tetrapods, raising the question of how limb diversification is generated from a conserved toolkit. In some breeds of domestic pigeon, shifts in the expression of two conserved limb identity transcription factors, PITX1 and TBX5, are associated with the formation of feathered HLs with partial FL identity. To determine how modulation of PITX1 and TBX5 expression affects downstream gene expression, we compared the transcriptomes of embryonic limb buds from pigeons with scaled and feathered HLs. We identified a set of differentially expressed genes enriched for genes encoding transcription factors, extracellular matrix proteins, and components of developmental signaling pathways with important roles in limb development. A subset of the genes that distinguish scaled and feathered HLs are also differentially expressed between FL and scaled HL buds in pigeons, pinpointing a set of gene expression changes downstream of PITX1 and TBX5 in the partial transformation from HL to FL identity. We extended our analyses by comparing pigeon limb bud transcriptomes to chicken, anole lizard, and mammalian datasets to identify deeply conserved PITX1- and TBX5-responsive components of the limb identity program. Our analyses reveal a suite of predominantly low-level gene expression changes that are conserved across amniotes to regulate the identity of morphologically distinct limbs.

Isospora coronoideae n. sp. (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) from the Australian raven (Corvus coronoides) (Passeriformes: Corvidae) (Linnaeus, 1758) in Western Australia.

A new Isospora (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) species is described from an Australian raven (Corvus coronoides) in Western Australia. Sporulated oocysts (n = 21) are ovoid, 21.2 (18.4-23.9) μm in length and 18.8 (16.9-20.6) μm in width, with a shape index of 1.13. The bi-layered oocyst wall is smooth and colourless, 1.2μm thick. A polar granule and oocyst residuum is present, but the micropyle is absent. The sporocysts are ovoid-shaped, 16.3 (13.7-18.9) × 10.7 (8.4-12.9) μm, with a shape index (length/width) of 1.52. Stieda and substieda bodies are present, the Stieda body being small and hemidome-shaped and the substieda being indistinct. Each sporocyst with four vermiform sporozoites arranged head to tail. The sporozoites are crescent-shaped, 9.0 (8.9-9.2) × 2.7 (2.3-3.0) μm, with a shape index (length/width) of 3.33. The sporocyst residuum is present. The isolated oocysts had different morphological characteristics when compared with all known Isospora spp. The coccidian parasite was analysed at the 18S and 28S ribosomal RNA and the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase (COI) loci. At the 18S locus, I. coronoideae n. sp. exhibited 98.9% similarity to I. neochmiae from a captive-bred red-browed finch (KT224380) and Isospora sp. from domestic pigeons (Columba livia domestica) (AB757860), 98.5% similarity to I. gryphoni (AF080613) from an American goldfinch and 98.3% similarity to I. manorinae (KT224379) from a yellow-throated miner. At the 28S locus, it exhibited 95.4% and 94.8% similarity to I. manorinae (KT224381) and I. anthochaerae (KF766053), respectively. At the COI locus, it exhibited 99.8% and 99.7% similarity to I. butcherae (KY801687) and I. neochmiae (KT224378), respectively. Based on morphological and molecular data, this isolate is a new species of Isospora, which is named Isospora coronoideae n. sp. after its host, the Australian raven (Corvus coronoides) (Passeriformes: Corvidae) (Linnaeus, 1758).

The racing pigeon (Columba livia domestica) industry in Victoria, Australia, and epidemiology of a novel Group A rotavirus outbreak.

A novel Group A rotavirus, first identified clinically in racing, feral and fancy pigeons in Western Australia, had spread throughout Australia by March 2017. In December 2016, the putative index case of rotavirus in racing pigeons in the state of Victoria was confirmed at a regional bird sale, with rapid spread to peri-urban Melbourne, the capital city. A survey sent to approximately 400 Victorian pigeon fanciers identified eight (of 85 respondents) with a confirmed rotavirus infection in their loft(s). If a fancier had purchased live birds, either from the regional sale or from another source, there was a 13%-38% increased likelihood of the loft subsequently being confirmed rotavirus-positive. An increased loft-level risk of rotavirus was also positively associated with the number of neighbouring lofts within a 5-km radius of a home loft. It was concluded that rotavirus was primarily transmitted beyond the Victorian index case through the movement of live birds into a loft, either deliberately through bird purchase and/or inadvertently through the entry of pigeons from neighbouring lofts. As pigeon racing inherently requires consistent contact between birds from different lofts, vaccination is recommended as a primary method of rotavirus control in this unique industry.

Morphology and cytochemical patterns of peripheral blood cells in domestic pigeon (Columba livia)

Domestic Pigeon (Columba livia) is one of few domesticated birds with an important economic value. In this study, a comprehensive investigation on the morphology and cytochemical patterns of peripheral blood cells in domestic pigeons were conducted by using wright’s and various cytochemical staining techniques including periodic acid-Schiff(PAS), sudan black B(SBB), peroxidase(POX), alkaline phosphatase(ALP), acid phosphatase(ACP), chloroacetic acid AS-D naphthol esterase(AS-D) and α-naphthol acetate esterase(α-NAE) staining. Besides erythrocytes and thrombocytes, five types of leukocytes were identified: heterophils, eosinophils, basophils, lymphocytes and monocytes. Lymphocytes were the most abundant leukocytes, followed by heterophils, eosinophils, monocytes; basophils were the fewest. Erythrocytes and thrombocytes were positive for PAS, and negative for all the other cytochemical staining. Heterophils and eosinophils exhibited positive to all cytochemical staining except for α-NAE. Basophils exhibited strongly positive for POX and AS-D, positive for PAS and ALP, while negative for SBB, ACP and α-NAE staining. Monocytes exhibited positive for PAS and α-NAE, and weakly positive for ACP, while negative for SBB, POX, ALP and AS-D staining. Lymphocytes showed positive for PAS and ACP, weakly positive for AS-D, while negative for SBB, POX, ALP and α-NAE staining. Our results add up knowledge about the domestic pigeon blood cells.

Effects of Eugenol on Haemoproteus columbae in domestic pigeons (Columba livia domestica) from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Eugenol was investigated for the treatment of Haemoproteus columbae (H. columbae) infected squabs (young domestic pigeons, Columba domestica). Thirty naturally-infected squabs were divided into three groups of 10 each. One group was treated with Eugenol, while the positive and negative control groups were administered buparvaquone (Butalex®) and distilled water, respectively. The number of infected red blood cells (RBCs) was calculated in all groups before and after treatment at 4-day intervals for 16 days. The results showed a significant therapeutic effect of Eugenol, with a progressive decrease in the number of infected RBCs from 89.20 ± 2.11 before treatment to 0.90 ± 0.31 at the end of treatment (P≤0.05). Butalex® was able to suppress the number of infected RBCs from 93.70 ± 1.72 before treatment to 0.90 ± 0.35 at the end of the experiment (P≤0.05). Eugenol showed therapeutic effects against H. columbae and may be regarded as a candidate for further studies to develop new drugs against blood parasites, in both animals and humans.

Pigeon and Poultry Breeders, Friends or Enemies of the Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentilis? A Long-Term Study of a Population in Central Poland.

Simple SummaryThe population of goshawks crashed in the middle of the 20th century due to persecution, forest management practices, and the usage of toxic pesticides (DDT) in agriculture. Now, it has rebuilt, yet the population trend is not equal across countries. Here, we focused on a goshawk population in central Poland for which monitoring started in the 1980s (high densities were recorded at that time of 16.3 pairs/100 km2) to see how changing environmental factors influenced the current population trend. In the field and forest mosaic, these birds build their nests in small forest complexes, but important prey tend to be caught near farmsteads. This has previously resulted in the persecution of the birds by farmers. Anthropogenic food (poultry and domestic pigeons) played a key role in their population density. Consequently, when the anthropogenic food base was limited (due to changes in the Polish farmland), population abundance dropped by half. As supplementary prey (including small-game and most corvid species) were not abundant, goshawks could not replace their staple food of anthropogenic origin. This demonstrates the complex way in which socioeconomic changes in agriculture can influence a raptor population: both positively (fewer cases of persecution are being recorded now) and negatively (small-scale breeding of pigeons and poultry became unimportant and unprofitable, and small game abundance decreased due to changes in farming practices and farmland structure). In this study, we focused on a goshawk population in central Poland (study area 105 km2, forests 24 km2, seven small forest complexes) which was monitored long-term (with high densities recorded in the 1980s of 16.3 pairs/100 km2 despite persecution by farmers) to analyse how environmental factors (prey availability and changes in the forest structure) influenced population abundance, breeding parameters, and diet composition. The study was undertaken from 2011–2018, and the results were compared with published data from two previous study periods (1982–1992 and 2001–2003). The number of breeding pairs dropped from 17.1 to 8.0; the breeding success was around 75% in all study periods. The selection of nesting trees followed the changes in stand species and age structure. More nesting attempts per one nest were recorded in the current time period (1.7 vs. 1.1), which probably reflected lower anthropopressure (i.e., no cases of persecution were recorded in this study). Diet composition seemed to follow changes in the prey availability: The share of domestic pigeons and poultry (the main prey in the 1980s) as well as small game dropped, while the share of Eurasian jay and wood pigeon increased. Our studies suggested that anthropogenic food (poultry and domestic pigeons) played a key role for the goshawk population in the transformed habitats of the field and forest mosaic.

Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in domestic pigeons and backyard chickens in Kalar and Khanaqin districts, Iraq

Domestic pigeons and backyard chickens are reared by a large number of people in Iraq for several purposes including meat, egg, commerce, and hobby. They are infected with different types of parasites which cause high mortality rate and great economic loss. The present study was conducted in two districts in Garmian region, Kalar and Khanaqin to study the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in domestic pigeons and backyard chickens. A total of 720 fresh fecal samples from (401 backyard chickens and 319 domestic pigeons) were examined using direct microscopy and standard floatation technique. The overall prevalence of parasites was 38.61 %. The rate of infection in chickens was 32.91% (132/401) and the rate of infection in pigeons was 45.76% (146/319). Five genera of nematodes were identified in chickens: Ascaridia galli (5.98%), Heterakis gallinarum (4.48%), Capillaria sp. (3.24%), Oxyspirura mansoni (1.74%) and Trichostrongylus tenuis (0.75%). Two cestodes were also identified, Choanotaenia infundibulatum (6.73%) and Raillietina sp. (0.75%) and one protozoan, Eimeria sp. (15.96%). Five genera of parasites were identified in domestic pigeons as follows: three nematodes, Ascaridia columbae (2.82%), Heterakis gallinarum (1.25%) and Capillaria sp. (0.62%), one cestode, Raillietina sp. (1.56%) and one protozoan, Eimeria sp. (42%). Sexes of the birds had no effect on the rate of infection p>0.05. Regarding locations, pigeons from Khanaqin were highly infected with parasites compared to Kalar p

Prevalence of intestinal helminth parasites of pigeons (Columba livia domestica Gmelin 1789) in Kano State, North-Western Nigeria.

In Nigeria, helminths have over the last decades been established as important parasite of poultry including pigeons. However, the prevalence of these parasites of pigeons in Kano State is yet to be established. The prevalence of helminth parasites of domestic pigeon (Columba livia domestica) in Kano State, Nigeria was investigated in this study. The differences in the prevalence of infection between the pigeons examined on the basis of sex of the pigeon and season of the year were analyzed statistically using the students' "t" -test. The intestinal contents of 144 pigeons were examined for gastrointestinal helminths between February and April representing the dry season and between June and August for the wet season. Pigeons were grouped according to Squabs (chicks) (0-4 weeks), Squeakers (Juveniles) (5-8 weeks) and Youngsters (Adults) (9 weeks onwards). Intestinal parasites found include Cestodes: Raillietina tetragona, 20 (13.80%), R. echinobothrida, 11 (7.64%), Amoebotaenia cuneata, 5 (3.47%), Hymenolopis contaniana, 10 (6.95%), Davainea proglottina, 1(0.69%) and Ornithostrongylus quadriatus 1(0.69%). Nematodes: Capillaria obsignata, 10(6.95%) and Ascaridia columbae, 9(6.25%). Forty-two (29.16%) of the birds had mild infection, 17 (11.81%) had moderate infection, 9 (6.25%) and 2(1.39%) had heavy and severe infection, respectively. The prevalence was higher during the wet season (36.65%) than during the dry season (27.97%). Of all the age groups, only Youngsters, 34 (23.61%) were infected with intestinal helminths. However, there were statistically significant differences between the age, sex and seasons in this study (P < 0.005). Pigeons raised on semi-intensive had the highest rate of infection (37.50%) and those raised on intensive management had the lowest rate of infection (9.03%). A number of measures are recommended for the control of these helminthic parasites.