Streptopelia Decaocto Research Articles

Evidence of West Nile virus lineage 2 circulation in Northern Italy

A West Nile virus (WNV) strain belonging to lineage 2 was for the first time detected in two pools of Culex pipiens collected in the province of Udine and in tissues of a wild collared dove (Streptopelia decaocto) found dead in the province of Treviso, in North East of Italy. It was molecularly identified by group and WNV lineage specific RT-PCRs and characterized by partial sequencing of the NS3 and NS5 genes. When compared with the sequences of same fragments of NS3 and NS5 of the WNV lineage 2 strain isolated from birds of prey in Hungary (2004), the phylogenetic analysis of these sequences revealed 100% and 99% similarity, respectively. As the Hungarian strain, the NS3 selected sequence differed from the 2010 Greek isolate by one amino-acid located at 249 site which is the site involved in genetic modulation of WNV pathogenicity. The Italian and Hungarian strains have histidine rather than proline at this site. The presence of a lineage 2 strain in regions where the lineage 1 strain is still circulating, creates a new scenario with unpredictable consequences. In this situation comprehensive investigations on the occurrence, ecology, and epidemiology of these different WNV strains circulating in Italy become the highest priority.

Trichomonosis in Free-Ranging Eurasian Collared Doves (Streptopelia decaocto) and African Collared Dove Hybrids (Streptopelia risoria) in the Caribbean and Description of ITS-1 Region Genotypes

We report the first documented occurrence of an outbreak of trichomonosis in a free-ranging small flock of Eurasian collared doves (Streptopelia decaocto) and African collared dove hybrids (Streptopelia risoria) in the Caribbean. In total, 18 birds were examined, including six African collared dove x Eurasian collared dove hybrids and 12 Eurasian collared doves. The affected age class consisted of adults. Sex distribution was equal. With a flock population size of 200 birds, mortality rate for the outbreak was estimated at 15-20%. Living birds were weak, showing evidence of mucus-stained beaks and open-mouth breathing. Caseous ulcerative yellow lesions were restricted to the upper gastrointestinal tract, with the exception of one bird, which had lesions in the upper gastrointestinal tract and in the liver. Ninety-four percent (17/18) of the affected birds had multiple extensive lesions. Lesions located on the roof of the oral cavity extended in 33% (6/18) into the orbit and in 11% (2/18) into the braincase. Using wet-mount microscopy, we were able to confirm Trichomonas gallinae in 22% (4/18) of the sampled animals. Fifteen samples submitted for PCR analysis tested positive. Sequence analysis of the internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS-1) region of the ribosomal RNA (rRNA) revealed two distinct genotypes of Trichomonas. One sequence had 100% identity to the prototype T. gallinae isolate, whereas the other sequences had 98-100% identity to recently described Trichomonas-like parabasalid. On the basis of gross and histologic findings, along with the sequence results from the columbids in this report, it is likely that this Trichomonas-like parabasalid is pathogenic.

Status, Dispersal, and Breeding Biology of the Exotic Eurasian Collared-Dove (Streptopelia decaocto) in Arkansas

The exotic Eurasian Collared-Dove (Streptopelia decaocto) was first sighted in Arkansas at Harrison (Boone Co.) on 25 June 1989. Since this initial sighting the species has grown in numbers and is now present in 42 of 75 counties across the state. In the spring and summer of 2009 and 2010, 20 nests were observed in the urban areas of Fort Smith (Sebastian County). Fifteen of the 20 nests (75%) were located on human-made structures of which 13 (65%) were on an electrical substation and two (10%) were on utility poles. The remaining 5 nests (25%) were in trees. Mean nest height was 7.62 m (n = 20 nests), and the mean width of the nest site support was 40 cm (n = 6 nests). Thirteen of the 20 nests (65%) yielded fledgling(s). Three focal nests were chosen for intense observation. Nest building lasted 1 to 3 days (mean = 2 days); incubation period was 15 days; and fledging occurred 17-18 days after hatching (n = 3 nests). A total of 6 young fledged from these 3 nests.

Registros reproductivos de la paloma de collar (Streptopelia decaocto) en Yucatán, México

Reportamos información sobre avistamientos recientes en vida libre de Streptopelia decaocto en el estado de Yucatán. Los registros de actividad reproductiva permiten incluir a esta paloma como parte de la avifauna estatal. Discutimos brevemente las implicaciones potenciales de su presencia sobre la avifauna regional.

Plasma and whole brain cholinesterase activities in three wild bird species in Mosul, IRAQ: In vitro inhibition by insecticides

Plasma and brain cholinesterase activities were determined in three wild bird species to assess their exposure to organophosphate and carbamate insecticides which are used in agriculture and public health. In the present study, we used an electrometric method for measurement of cholinesterase activities in the plasma and whole brain of three indigenous wild birds commonly found in northern Iraq. The birds used were apparently healthy adults of both sexes (8 birds/species, comprising 3–5 from each sex) of quail (Coturnix coturnix), collard dove (Streptopelia decaocto) and rock dove (Columba livia gaddi), which were captured in Mosul, Iraq. The mean respective cholinesterase activities (Δ pH/30 minutes) in the plasma and whole brain of the birds were as follows: quail (0.96 and 0.29), collard dove (0.97and 0.82) and rock dove (1.44 and 1.42). We examined the potential susceptibility of the plasma or whole brain cholinesterases to inhibition by selected insecticides. The technique of in vitro cholinesterase inhibition for 10 minutes by the organophosphate insecticides dichlorvos, malathion and monocrotophos (0.5 and 1.0 µM) and the carbamate insecticide carbaryl (5 and10 µM) in the enzyme reaction mixtures showed significant inhibition of plasma and whole brain cholinesterase activities to various extents. The data further support and add to the reported cholinesterase activities determined electrometrically in wild birds in northern Iraq. The plasma and whole brain cholinesterases of the birds are highly susceptible to inhibition by organophosphate and carbamate insecticides as determined by the described electrometric method, and the results further suggest the usefulness of the method in biomonitoring wild bird cholinesterases.

Primer informe de leucismo en la paloma de collar Streptopelia decaocto (Columbiformes), especie exótica en México

La paloma de collar, Streptopelia decaocto, es una especie originaria del Paleártico occidental, introducida en México. El leucismo es una pérdida parcial de pigmentación. Aquí informamos del primer individuo leucístico en México, visto en El Rosario de Abajo, Ensenada, Baja California, México, el 29 de noviembre del 2009 (30°02’24” N y 115°44’24” W).

Is the elongated opisthosoma in Bharatoliaphilus punjabensis Prasad, 1975 (Acari: Pterygosomatidae) an ovipositor?

ABSTRACT A female mite, Bharatoliaphilus punjabensis Prasad, 1975 (Acari: Pterygosomatidae), collected from a Eurasian Collared Dove, Streptopelia decaocto (Frivaldszky), in Ludhiana, state of Punjab, north India, has a uniquely elongate, narrow posterior opisthosoma and a reduced number of setae on the idiosoma. This unusual opisthosoma is not found in any other known pterygosomatid mite. The dorsal and ventral setal patterns are close to Pimeliaphilus Trägårdh, 1905 and Hirstiella Berlese, 1920. Most Pimeliaphilus spp. are ectoparasites on arthropods including scorpions, cockroaches, and triatomine kissing bugs (Hemiptera: Reduviidae), while most Hirstiella spp. are ectoparasites mostly on Old and New World lizards, Sauromalus spp., Cyclura sp. (Reptilia: Gekkonidae, Iguanidae). The bird host is probably accidental. Because of the long, narrow opisthosoma and reduced number of setae on the body, we hypothesize that the process may be an “ovipositor” for laying eggs under scales or in a cavity of the host, and that this mite may be an external parasite or a cavity-dwelling mite. Also, we suspect that the host is a lizard and not an arthropod. Future attempts to collect other examples of this mite may resolve the mystery about the biology, morphology, ovipositor, distribution, host, and exact niche.

CHARACTERIZATION OF VELOGENIC NEWCASTLE DISEASE VIRUSES ISOLATED FROM DEAD WILD BIRDS IN SERBIA DURING 2007

Avian paramyxoviruses type 1 or Newcastle disease viruses (NDV) are frequently recovered from wild birds and such isolates are most frequently of low virulence. Velogenic NDV are usually recovered from poultry and only occasionally from wild birds. Five NDV isolates were obtained from carcasses of four wild bird species during 2007 in Serbia: Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos), Eurasian Sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus), feral Rock Pigeon (Columba livia), and Eurasian Collared Dove (Streptopelia decaocto). All the isolates have a typical fusion protein cleavage site motif of velogenic viruses ((112)R-R-Q-K-R-F(117)). The highest homology (99%) for the nucleotide sequences spanning the M and F gene of the studied isolates was with the genotype VII NDV isolate Muscovy duck/China(Fujian)/FP1/02. Phylogenetic analysis based on a partial F gene sequence showed that the isolates from wild birds cluster together with concurrent isolates from poultry in Serbia within the subgenotype VIId, which is the predominant pathogen involved currently in Newcastle disease outbreaks in poultry worldwide. It is unlikely that the wild birds played an important role in primary introduction or consequent spread of the velogenic NDV to domestic poultry in Serbia, and they probably contracted the virus from locally infected poultry.

Post-Fledging Movements, Home Range, and Survival of Juvenile Eurasian Collared-Doves in Western France

Abstract. Determining factors that affect post-fledging dispersal and survival is key toward a better understanding of the population dynamics of species with a propensity for range expansion, such as the Eurasian Collared-Dove (Streptopelia decaocto). By radio tracking, we assessed the survival, causes of mortality, movements, and emigration of 41 juvenile Eurasian Collared-Doves, monitored in two villages from a fragmented urban and agricultural landscape in western France, 2001–2002. Thirteen weeks after fledging the doves' survival was 61% (±8% SE), and predation was the leading cause of mortality. Home ranges and distances traveled increased over time. Individuals in better body condition had larger home ranges and a higher propensity to emigrate. In addition, those originating from the smaller village had smaller home ranges and were more likely to emigrate. Our results suggest that range expansion of the Eurasian Collared-Doves should be faster in regions where urban areas are smaller but more clos...

Hierarchical modeling of an invasive spread: the Eurasian Collared-Dove Streptopelia decaocto in the United States

Invasive species are regularly claimed as the second threat to biodiversity. To apply a relevant response to the potential consequences associated with invasions (e.g., emphasize management efforts to prevent new colonization or to eradicate the species in places where it has already settled), it is essential to understand invasion mechanisms and dynamics. Quantifying and understanding what influences rates of spatial spread is a key research area for invasion theory. In this paper, we develop a model to account for occupancy dynamics of an invasive species. Our model extends existing models to accommodate several elements of invasive processes; we chose the framework of hierarchical modeling to assess site occupancy status during an invasion. First, we explicitly accounted for spatial structure and how distance among sites and position relative to one another affect the invasion spread. In particular, we accounted for the possibility of directional propagation and provided a way of estimating the direction of this possible spread. Second, we considered the influence of local density on site occupancy. Third, we decided to split the colonization process into two subprocesses, initial colonization and recolonization, which may be ground-breaking because these subprocesses may exhibit different relationships with environmental variations (such as density variation) or colonization history (e.g., initial colonization might facilitate further colonization events). Finally, our model incorporates imperfection in detection, which might be a source of substantial bias in estimating population parameters. We focused on the case of the Eurasian Collared-Dove (Streptopelia decaocto) and its invasion of the United States since its introduction in the early 1980s, using data from the North American BBS (Breeding Bird Survey). The Eurasian Collared-Dove is one of the most successful invasive species, at least among terrestrial vertebrates. Our model provided estimation of the spread direction consistent with empirical observations. Site persistence probability exhibits a quadratic response to density. We also succeeded at detecting differences in the relationship between density and initial colonization vs. recolonization probabilities. We provide a map of sites that may be colonized in the future as an example of possible practical application of our work.

New records of Chewing Lice (Phthiraptera) From Some Bird Species in Turkey

This study was carried out to detect chewing-lice found on some birds in Turkey. For this aim, a Eurasian collared dove (Streptopelia decaocto), a budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus) and a marbled duck (Marmaronetta angustirostris) were examined for the louse. Columbicola bacillus (Giebel, 1866) was found on a Eurasian collared dove (Streptopelia decaocto), Afrimenopon waar (Eichler, 1947) on a budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus) and Anatoecus icterodes (Nitzsch, 1818) on a marbled duck (Marmaronetta angustirostris). All three louse species were recorded for the first time in Turkey. Anatoecus icterodes was reported for the first time from marbled duck in the worldwide. Therefore, marbled duck is a new host for Anatoecus icterodes.

The effect of habitat on the range expansion of a native and an introduced bird species

Aim Range expansion across a heterogeneous landscape may depend on the habitat selected and used by the expanding species. If habitat selection influences range expansion then localities colonized by a species should contain a greater proportion of favoured habitat (and less non-habitat) than other nearby localities not colonized. White-winged doves (Zenaida asiatica) and Eurasian collared doves (Streptopelia decaocto) are two bird species that provide an excellent opportunity to test this hypothesis, because the geographic ranges of both species have been expanding in North America for more than two decades. Location Continental USA. Methods We used distribution data from the North American Breeding Bird Survey to test whether the landscapes occupied by each species contained a greater proportion of favoured habitat (urban land, grassland/pasture, shrub land and cropland) and a lower proportion of non-habitat (forest land) than landscapes where doves were not found. We tested each species separately in each of three broad expansion areas, namely East, Central and West. We also compared rates of spatial spread between expansion areas and between the two species. Results As predicted, both species tended to occupy landscapes with greater proportions of urban land, shrub land and cropland but with less forest land compared with landscapes without doves, in all three expansion areas. Contrary to prediction, occupied landscapes tended to have slightly less grassland/pasture than unoccupied landscapes. Rates of spread differed between the two species and among expansion areas. Main conclusions Range expansion and the extent to which a species fills or saturates its range are influenced by the habitat ecology of the expanding species. Species colonize localities based on the availability of suitable habitat. However, the role of habitat in a species’ range expansion does depend somewhat on the greater geographical setting. Over large regional and geographical scales, range expansion (rate of spread and saturation) may proceed unevenly, suggesting that range expansion is a very dynamic and context-specific process.

Invasive birds in a novel landscape: habitat associations and effects on established species

Studying the relationships among introduced species, their preferred habitats, and native species can be important for predicting the effects of invasions on native populations. Examining the colonization of North America by the Eurasian collared‐dove Streptopelia decaocto, we quantified the habitat characteristics of sites most likely to be occupied by this invasive bird species in the early stages of the invasion. Further, we studied the relationship between collared‐dove abundance and the abundance of other dove species in the study area, anticipating a negative effect on established species following the introduction of a potential competitor. Linking satellite‐derived landcover data with winter bird community data gathered from 444 study sites in Florida, USA from 1999 to 2008, we found that collared‐doves were more likely to occur in landscapes that had been highly‐modified by human activity than in forested landscapes. Collared‐dove abundance increased as the proportion of the landscape characterized as low‐intensity development and medium/high‐intensity development increased. The probability of collared‐doves occurring at a site was also related to the spatial proximity of other sites reporting doves (positive spatial autocorrelation). Contrary to our expectations, the site‐level abundance of four other dove species all increased with collared‐dove abundance throughout the sampling period. Interactions between collared‐doves and native species should be further studied in different environments as this invasive bird rapidly colonizes North America.

Structure of Pancreas in Zebra Finch (Poephila bichenovi) and Pigeon (Streptopelia decaocto laughing nove)

Saadatfar, Z., Asadian, M. and Alishahi, E. 2010. Structure of pancreas in zebra finch (Poephila bichenovi) and pigeon (Streptopelia decaocto laughing nove). J. Appl. Anim. Res., 37: 157–160. To compare pancreas of finch and pigeon 5 samples from each were examined. In finch's pancreas the number of islets in dorsal lobe was less than in ventral lobe. A islets were smaller containing 2 to 3 cells. B islets in general were clear and larger. In ventral lobe there were more islets specially A islets than dorsal lobe. In splenic lobe there were more B islets but A islets were also seen. In pigeon's pancreas in ventral lobe A islets were irregular. In dorsal lobe regular B islets were dominant while in splenic lobe there were a lot of islets which were distributed in all parts of lobe. The structure of pigeon and zebra finch's pancreas were similar with small differences between them.

Holotype of Bharatoliaphilus punjabensis Prasad, 1975 (Prostigmata: Pterygosomatidae) after 35 years: some comments

ABSTRACT The unique female holotype of Bharatoliaphilus punjabensis Prasad, 1975 (Acari: Pterygosomatidae), collected from feather of a freshly killed Eurasian Collared Dove, Streptopelia decaocto (Frivaldszky), in the state of Punjab, India, was recently re-examined and photographed. Information on the holotype is presented in this paper.

Potential impact of grey squirrels Sciurus carolinensis on woodland bird populations in England

Several woodland bird species have declined markedly in abundance in England over the past 40 years, whilst the grey squirrel Sciurus carolinensis, a non-native nest predator, has increased. Given the timing, there has been concern that grey squirrels have driven these declines, although there is little data to support this view. Using novel analytical methods and extensive national bird and grey squirrel monitoring data, we examine whether there is evidence that woodland bird populations in England have been depressed by grey squirrels and whether there is a relationship between nest failure and squirrel numbers. Our results indicate that grey squirrels are very unlikely to have driven observed declines of woodland birds in recent years, although the number of associations, positive as well as negative, between grey squirrels and woodland birds is greater than expected by chance. For this reason, we cannot exclude the possibility that the populations of a small number of bird species, principally increasing species, have been depressed to some degree at sites where a greater number of grey squirrels were present. Of these species, perhaps the most convincing evidence is for Common Blackbird Turdus merula and Eurasian Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto where nest record data also identified a positive relationship between nest failure at the egg stage and squirrel abundance.

The relationship between perfluorinated chemical levels in the feathers and livers of birds from different trophic levels

Although feathers have been used successfully for monitoring heavy metals and organic pollutants, there are currently no data available on the use of feathers as indicators of perfluorinated chemical (PFC) exposure in birds. Also, no study has evaluated PFC levels in birds with different diets from different habitats. In the current study we investigated the PFC exposure of five different bird species from the same geographic region in Belgium, using both feathers and liver tissue. The highest mean liver perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) levels were found in the Grey Heron (476 ng/g ww) followed by the Herring Gull (292 ng/g ww) and Eurasian Sparrowhawk (236 ng/g ww), whereas the Eurasian Magpie (17 ng/g ww) and the Eurasian Collared Dove (12 ng/g ww) had the lowest levels. The PFOS levels in the feathers showed a different pattern. The Grey Heron had the highest feather PFOS levels (247 ng/g dw), the Eurasian Sparrowhawk (102 ng/g dw) had the second highest feather PFOS levels, followed by the Herring Gull (79 ng/g dw) and the Eurasian Collared Dove (48 ng/g dw), and the lowest levels were found in the Eurasian Magpie (31 ng/g dw). Overall, there was a significant positive correlation (Pearson, R = 0.622, p < 0.01) between the feather and liver PFOS levels, indicating that feathers could be an alternative bioindicator for PFOS exposure in birds. However, caution should be taken as there was no significant correlation between the PFOS levels in the feathers and livers of the individual species. In general, birds from a higher trophic level had higher PFC levels in their tissues. This indicates that diet plays a role in PFC exposure in birds and confirms the bioaccumulation potential of PFC.

Florida's Introduced Birds: Eurasian Collared-Dove (Streptopelia decaocto)

WEC-256, a 5-page illustrated fact sheet by Steve A. Johnson and Gay Donaldson-Fortier, introduces the Eurasian Collared-Dove — species description, similar species, native range and habitats, mode of introduction, introduced range and habitats, ecological impacts, impacts to people and pets, and solutions. Includes additional resources. Published by the UF Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, April 2009.

Survey for Bharatoliaphilus punjabensis Prasad, 1975 (Prostigmata: Pterygosomatidae)

The only recorded specimen of Bharatoliaphilus punjabensis Prasad, 1975, was collected by the author from a feather of a freshly killed Eurasian Collared Dove, Streptopelia decaocto (Frivaldszky), in the state of Punjab, India. The mite has not been found subsequently. A search for it in bird nests in Michigan, USA, during 2004–2007, was unsuccessful. An award for its collection of US$500 announced in 2008 has been increased to US$1000, with the hope that a global search will reveal new information about this unusual mite and also stimulate interest in acarine taxonomy in general.

SURVIVAL COST OF AN EARLY IMMUNE SOLICITING IN NATURE

If immune functions confer obvious benefits to hosts, life-history theory assumes that they also induce costs, leading to trade-offs between immunity and other fitness components. However, whether substantial fitness costs are associated with immune systems in the wild is debatable, as numerous factors may influence the costs and benefits associated with immune activation. Here, we explore the survival cost of immune deployment in postfledging birds. We injected Eurasian collared dove nestlings (Streptopelia decaocto) with antigens from Escherichia coli, and examined whether this immune challenge affected survival after fledging. To assess survival, birds were fitted with radiotags and the fate of each individual was monitored regularly. Our results show that mimicking a bacterial infection in nestlings lowered their survival prospects after fledging, in comparison to controls. The main identified cause of mortality (by examination of dead birds) was presumed to be predation. This study provides experimental evidence that immune activation may entail dramatic survival costs in a free-ranging vertebrate, and emphasizes the potential role that environmental factors such as predation may play in this interaction.