Abstract Environmental pollution has the potential to have a significant impact on animal’s health especially on birds due to daily exposure and habitat. This experimental study was carried out for a 60 days period in which, a total of 24 pigeon birds with suitable weight (80-100 g) were kept in Animal house with suitable environmental conditions viz, controlled temperature, humidity & light source to minimize any other stress. Out of twenty-four, eighteen birds were divided into three treatment groups (6 birds in each group). Whole experiment was run in triplicate manner in breeding season. One served as Control (Group 1) and remaining three were experimental groups including Road traffic noise (Group 2), Military noise (Group 3) & Human activities noise (Group 4). Noise was applied as recorded high intensity music (1125 Hz/ 90 dB) through speakers for 5-6 hrs. daily. Blood sampling was done after 20, 40 and 60 days by sacrificing treatment birds. Noise stress significantly (p<0.05) increase the serum levels of corticosterone and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in Group 2 while significantly (p<0.05) decrease the serum levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) of Group 3 birds. Moreover, major fault bars formation was seen both in Group 2 and Group 3. It was concluded as that Noise stress caused rise in serum levels of Corticosterone and TSH but fall in LH and FSH. Along with fault bars formation was also prominent in all treatment groups due to stress hormone.

Resumo A poluição ambiental tem o potencial de impactar significativamente a saúde animal, especialmente das aves, devido à exposição diária e ao habitat. Este estudo experimental foi realizado por um período de 60 dias em que, um total de 24 pombos com peso adequado (80-100 g) foram mantidos em biotério com condições ambientais adequadas, ou seja, temperatura, umidade e fonte de luz controladas para minimizar qualquer outro estresse. De 24, 18 aves foram divididas em 3 grupos de tratamento (6 aves em cada grupo). Todo o experimento foi executado em triplicado na época de reprodução. Um deles serviu como controle (Grupo 1) e os 3 restantes foram grupos experimentais, incluindo ruído de tráfego rodoviário (Grupo 2), ruído militar (Grupo 3) e ruído de atividades humanas (Grupo 4). O ruído foi aplicado como música gravada de alta intensidade (1125 Hz/90 dB) através de alto-falantes por 5-6 horas diárias. A coleta de sangue foi feita após 20, 40 e 60 dias sacrificando as aves do tratamento. O estresse sonoro aumentou significativamente (p < 0,05) os níveis séricos de corticosterona e hormônio estimulante da tireoide (TSH) no Grupo 2 enquanto diminuiu significativamente (p < 0,05) os níveis séricos de hormônio luteinizante (LH) e hormônio folículo estimulante (FSH) do Grupo 3. Além disso, a maior formação de barras de falha foi observada tanto no Grupo 2 quanto no Grupo 3. Concluiu-se que o estresse por ruído causou aumento nos níveis séricos de corticosterona e TSH, mas queda em LH e FSH. Junto com a formação de barras de falha também foi proeminente em todos os grupos de tratamento devido ao hormônio do estresse.

Resumo O presente estudo foi realizado para estimar a prevalência e diversidade de ectoparasitas em pombos-das-rochas em diferentes regiões de Punjab, Paquistão. Um total de 120 aves foram capturadas de março de 2017 a fevereiro de 2019. Os ectoparasitas foram coletados por procedimentos padrão e preservados em etanol 70% contendo uma gota de glicerina. Os dados relativos à idade, estado de saúde, sexo, tipo de área, local de amostragem e época do ano foram coletados em formulário padronizado. Os ectoparasitas foram identificados com base nas características morfológicas por meio de chaves de identificação. Noventa e seis (80%) aves estavam infestadas com ectoparasitas. Um total de sete famílias e treze espécies de diferentes ectoparasitas foram observados. Principalmente, sete espécies de piolhos, duas espécies de moscas, uma espécie de carrapato e três espécies de ácaros foram recuperadas de aves infestadas. Os pombos fêmeas foram infestados mais frequentemente (89,02%) do que os pombos machos (60,52%). A prevalência encontrada foi maior no verão (100%) em comparação com as outras estações. A taxa de infestação foi maior na área Industrial (97,50%) em relação às demais regiões. A maior prevalência de ectoparasitas (100%) foi registrada no distrito de Sargodha. Houve variação significativa (P <0,05) entre o número de ectoparasitas na asa, tórax, cauda e pescoço dentro das faixas etárias, estações do ano e zonas ecológicas. A ocorrência de parasitas em relação à área, idade, estado de saúde, sexo e estação do ano foi significativa. A taxa de infestação de parasitas em pombo-correio é alta em diferentes distritos de Punjab. Recomenda-se que essas aves selvagens infestadas com várias espécies de ectoparasitas possam ser a fonte potencial de infestações em aves domesticadas se entrarem em contato com elas. O contato de aves domesticadas deve ser evitado com aves selvagens para minimizar a chance de transmissão cruzada de ectoparasitas.

Abstract The current study was carried out to estimate the prevalence and diversity of ectoparasites in rock pigeons in different regions of Punjab, Pakistan. A total of 120 birds were captured from March 2017 to February 2019. The ectoparasites were collected by standard procedures and preserved in 70% ethanol containing one drop of glycerin. Data related to age, health status, sex, type of area, sampling location and season were collected using a standardized form. Ectoparasites were identified based on morphological characteristics by using identification keys. Ninety-six (80%) birds were infested with ectoparasites. A total of seven families and thirteen species of different ectoparasites were observed. Mainly, seven species of lice, two species of flies, one species of tick and three species of mites were recovered from infested birds. The female pigeons were more often infested (89.02%) than male pigeons (60.52%). The prevalence was found higher during summer (100%) as compared to other seasons. The infestation rate was higher in Industrial area (97.50%) as compared to other regions. The highest prevalence of ectoparasites (100%) was recorded from Sargodha district. There was significant (P < 0.05) variation among number of ectoparasites on wing, chest, tail and neck within age groups, seasons and ecological zones. The occurrence of parasites in relation to area, age, health status, sex and season were significant. The infestation rate of parasites in rock pigeon is high in different districts of Punjab. It is recommended that these wild birds infested with multiple species of ectoparasites could be the potential source of infestations in domesticated birds if they come in contact with them. The contact of domesticated birds should be prevented from wild birds to minimize the chance of cross species transmission of ectoparasites.

Resumo Durante este estudo de um ano, amostras de sangue e fezes de pombos (Zenaida asiatica), patos (Anas platyrhynchos), pombos (Columba livia), perdizes (Alectoris chukar), perus (Meleagris gallopavo) e ganso (Chen caerulescens) foram coletados para avaliar a prevalência de parasitas nessas aves. As aves foram mantidas no Centro de Conservação e Pesquisa de Aves, Departamento de Vida Selvagem e Ecologia, Universidade de Veterinária e Ciências Animais, Lahore. Todas essas espécies de aves foram mantidas em gaiolas separadas e todo o seu corpo foi inspecionado regularmente para registrar parasitas externos. Para parasitas internos, foram analisadas 100 amostras de sangue e 100 amostras fecais de cada espécie. Durante o presente estudo, duas espécies de ectoparasitas, ou seja, carrapatos de aves (Args persicus) e ácaros (Dermanyssus gallinae), enquanto 17 espécies de endoparasitas, três de sangue e 14 de amostras fecais, foram identificadas. Os parasitas sanguíneos prevalentes foram Plasmodium juxtanucleare, 29,3%, Aegyptinella pullorum, 15%, e Leucoctoyzoon simond, 13%. As espécies parasitas registradas em amostras fecais incluíram 6 espécies de nematoides viz. Syngamus traqueia com prevalência parasitária de 50%, Capillaria anatis, 40%, Capillaria annulata, 37,5%, Heterakis gallinarum, 28,3%, Ascardia galli, 24% e Allodpa suctoria, 2%. Da mesma forma, duas espécies de trematódeos viz. Prosthogonimus ovatus com prevalência parasitária de 12,1% e Prosthogonimus macrorchis, 9,1%, também foram registrados nas amostras fecais das aves. Espécies de cestoide único Raillietina echinobothrida com prevalência parasitária de 27% e 3 espécies de protozoários, ou seja, Eimeria maxima tendo prevalência de 20,1%, Histomonas meleagridis, 8%, e Giardia lamblia, 5,3%, foram registradas. Em nossa recomendação, são indicados medicação adequada e saneamento das casas e gaiolas dos pássaros para evitar parasitas.

Abstract During this one year study, blood and fecal samples of doves (Zenaida asiatica), ducks (Anas platyrhynchos), pigeons (Columba livia), partridges (Alectoris chukar), turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo) and goose (Chen caerulescens) were collected to assess the parasitic prevalence in these birds. The birds were kept at Avian Conservation and Research Center, Department of Wildlife and Ecology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore. All these avian species were kept in separate cages and their entire body was inspected on regularly basis to record external parasites. For internal parasites, 100 blood and 100 fecal samples for each species were analyzed. During present study, two species of ectoparasites i.e. fowl ticks (Args persicus) and mite (Dermanyssus gallinae) while 17 species of endoparasites; three from blood and 14 from fecal samples were identified. Prevalence of blood parasites was Plasmodium juxtanucleare 29.3%, Aegyptinella pullorum 15% and Leucoctoyzoon simond 13%. Parasitic species recorded from fecal samples included 6 species of nematodes viz. Syngamus trachea with parasitic prevalence of 50%, Capillaria anatis 40%, Capillaria annulata 37.5%, Heterakis gallinarum 28.3%, Ascardia galli 24% and Allodpa suctoria 2%. Similarly, two species of trematodes viz. Prosthogonimus ovatus having parasitic prevalence of 12.1% and Prosthogonimus macrorchis 9.1% were also recorded from fecal samples of the birds. Single cestode species Raillietina echinobothrida having parasitic prevalence of 27% and 3 protozoan species i.e. Eimeria maxima having prevalence 20.1%, Histomonas meleagridis 8% and Giardia lamblia 5.3% were recorded. In our recommendation, proper medication and sanitation of the bird’s houses and cages is recommended to avoid parasites.

RESUMO: Pombos urbanos são conhecidos pela sua capacidade de carrear e disseminar diversos agentes zoonóticos. Estudos tem sugerido que pombos são também relevantes na disseminação de estirpes resistentes a múltiplas drogas. No presente estudo, pombos no ambiente de um hospital veterinário foram amostrados em três diferentes períodos e testados para a presença de Escherichia coli patogênica, Salmonella spp., Staphylococcus spp. e Clostridioides (Clostridium) difficile. Isolados de E. coli de 19 pombos (40.4%) foram positivos para o gene codificador da toxina EAST1. O gene codificador de intimina (eae) do patotipo E. coli enteropatogênica foi encontrada em um isolado (2.1%). Salmonella spp. foi encontrada em nove pombos (19.1%), sendo todos isolados do primeiro período de captura (P < 000.1). S. Typhimurium foi isolado de seis animais e S. Heidelberg de três. A tipagem molecular de isolados de Salmonella spp. por ERIC-PCR demonstrou que oito estirpes possuíam alta similaridade genética entre si, sugerindo a ocorrência de um surto de salmonelose nos animais carreadores. Vinte Staphylococcus (42.5%) foram isolados de 18 animais (38.3%). Oito diferentes espécies foram detectadas, sendo S. xylosus a mais frequente. Duas estirpes de C. difficile não-toxigênica (4.3%) foram isoladas. Uma estirpe de S. Typhimurium, uma de S. aureus e um isolado de C. difficile foram classificados como resistentes a múltiplas drogas antimicrobianas. O presente estudo sugere que pombos capturados no ambiente do hospital veterinário podem atuar como reservatórios e disseminadores de bactérias patogênicas e envolvidas em infecção hospitalar, incluindo E. coli diarreiogênica e Staphylococcus sp., C. difficile e Salmonella spp multirresistente.

ABSTRACT: Pigeons are known for their capacity to harbor and spread several zoonotic agents. Studies have suggested that pigeons are also relevant disseminators of multidrug-resistant strains. In this study, pigeons surrounding a veterinary hospital were sampled and tested for the presence of pathogenic Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Staphylococcus spp., and Clostridioides (Clostridium) difficile. E. coli isolates from 19 (40.4%) pigeons tested positive for the E. coli heat-stable enterotoxin 1 (EAST1)-encoding gene. The intimin-encoding gene (eae) of enteropathogenicE. coli (EPEC) was found in one isolate (2.1%). Salmonella spp. were found in nine (19.1%) pigeons, all from the first capture event (P < 000.1). S. Typhimurium and S. Heidelberg were isolated from six and three pigeons, respectively. Enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus (ERIC-PCR) of the Salmonella spp. isolates suggested that eight of the nine strains had a high genetic similarity, supporting the hypothesis of an outbreak of salmonellosis in these pigeons. Twenty (42.5%) staphylococcal isolates were recovered from 18 (38.3%) pigeons. Eight different species were detected, with S. xylosus being the most frequent. Two (4.3%) C. difficile strains were isolated. Three isolates, one each of S. Typhimurium, S. aureus, and C. difficile, were classified as multidrug-resistant strains. The present research suggested that pigeons residing in urban areas can act as reservoirs and disseminators of pathogenic bacteria, including nosocomial pathogens, such as diarrheagenicE. coli and multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus spp., C. difficile, and Salmonella spp.

ABSTRACT Investigations into LDH-A and DR-D4 genes polymorphism, neurotransmitter values and cytogenetic indices of 3 sexed pigeon breeds; non-racing pigeons, (wild rock), racing long distances pigeons (Jan Aarden) and racing short distances pigeons (Janssen) have been performed. The long-distances pigeon showed the highest brain neurotransmitters concentration (p<0.001) among pigeon breeds. Both LDH-A and DR-D4 genes polymorphism indicate the presence of different biodiversity values among pigeon breeds. The variations appeared on the position length 389bp for LDH-A polymorphism, and on two positions length of 418bp and 524bp for DR-D4 polymorphism of long distances male pigeon indicate the presence of unique diversity and overall differences in the amino acids structure in this breed. The protein sequence of both genes showed that in the position of 60 for LDH-A gene the amino acid K (lys) was converted to E (glu), while, in the positions of 117 and 153 for DR-D4 gene the amino acid R (arg) and L (leu) were converted to S (ser) and F (phe) only in long distances male pigeon compared to the other breeds. Moreover, there were slight differences in cytogenetic indices detected among the three pigeon breeds. It can be concluded that both DR-D4 and LDH-A genes polymorphism and neurotransmitters estimations in the brain tissue of racing pigeon would be useful indices for the differentiation and genetic characterization of pigeon breeds and provide a foundation for developing sustainable genetic improvement and conservation programs of the breeding and selecting racing pigeon breeders.

ABSTRACT Genus Eimeria is a group of obligate Protista parasites within phylum Apicomplexa that causes a major threat to animal production. Little information is available about the coccidia of pigeons. This study was undertaken to study experimental infection in domesticated pigeons, its clinical signs, and pathological interpretation due to Eimeria species. Eimeria labbeana-like oocysts were used as a model parasite for experimental infection of pigeons. Twenty pigeons were brought and examined for 7 days to ensure they were coccidia-free. Five pigeons were separated into parasite passage. The remaining pigeons were divided into a control group of five pigeons, and ten pigeons were infected with 3×104 E. labbeana-like oocysts. Infected pigeons showed ruffled feathers, greenish watery diarrhea, weakness, blood-tinged droppings, etc. Pre-patent and patent durations were five and fourteen days of oral inoculation of Eimeria. Oocysts shedding began on the 5th-day p.i. and peaked on the 8th-day p.i. There is a significant loss in body weight due to infection. Histopathological examination showed damage to intestinal mucosa with various Eimeria developmental stages in the duodenal of the small intestine. This study is considered basic information on the first detection of biology of Eimeria species infecting pigeons in Saudi Arabia.

RESUMO O gênero Eimeria é um grupo de parasitas protistas obrigatórios do filo Apicomplexa que causam uma grande ameaça à produção animal. Há poucas informações disponíveis sobre coccídios de pombos. Este trabalho foi realizado para estudar a infecção experimental em pombos domesticados, seus sinais clínicos e interpretação patológica devido a espécies de Eimeria. Oocistos semelhantes a Eimeria labbeana foram usados como modelo de parasita para a infecção experimental de pombos. Vinte pombos foram trazidos e examinados por sete dias para garantir que estivessem livres de coccídios. Cinco pombos foram separados para a passagem do parasita. Os pombos restantes foram divididos em um grupo de controle de cinco pombos, e dez pombos foram infectados com 3×104 oocistos do tipo E. labbeana. Os pombos infectados apresentaram penas desgrenhadas, diarreia aquosa esverdeada, fraqueza, fezes com coloração de sangue etc. As durações pré-patente e patente foram de cinco e quatorze dias de inoculação oral de Eimeria. A liberação de oocistos começou no 5º dia p.i. e atingiu seu pico no 8º dia p.i. Há uma perda significativa no peso corporal devido à infecção. O exame histopatológico mostrou danos à mucosa intestinal com vários estágios de desenvolvimento da Eimeria no duodeno do intestino delgado. Este estudo é considerado uma informação básica sobre a primeira detecção da biologia de espécies de Eimeria infectando pombos na Arábia Saudita.

ABSTRACT Introduction/framework/objectives Psittacosis is a rare entity caused by Chlamydophila psittaci. This bacterium is transmitted through contact with contaminated birds, namely psittaciformes, which include parrots, macaws and parakeets, as pigeons and chickens. The objective of this work is to highlight the pathology and the role of Occupational Health in it. Methodology A bibliographic search was carried out on original articles published in Portuguese and English, in June 2022, in the PubMed and Cochrane Library databases, using the keywords “Psittacosis”, “Occupational exposure” and “Occupational health”. Three articles were also included, not covered by the research, relevant to the work, for reporting the Portuguese reality. Contents Outbreaks can occur in workers with occupations that involve contact with live birds or carcasses, such as veterinarians, breeders, or pet store workers. However, it is difficult to establish the precise incidence and prevalence of psittacosis, probably due to the lack of routine screening. Transmission occurs mainly by aerosols, inhalation of urine, feces or other contaminated particles; transmission between humans, although possible, is rare. The incubation period ranges from five to 14 days, but may extend to weeks in cases of subacute or latent infection. It has a clinical presentation like a flu-like syndrome and can cause disseminated and even potentially fatal disease. The most frequent findings on chest radiography are segmental or lobar consolidation, especially in the lower lobes. It can occasionally cause marked leukocytosis, c-reactive protein (CRP) is often elevated, and liver enzymes change in approximately half of hospitalized patients, with elevation of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and low serum albumin levels. Tetracyclines are the drug of choice for treatment. Discussion and Conclusions Although the number of cases is apparently small, the impact of the disease is most likely underestimated. Thus, it is necessary to increase the awareness of this pathology both for Occupational Health professionals and for employers and workers themselves. On the other hand, an approach is needed that encompasses collaboration between human and animal health agencies, laboratories and medical and veterinary professionals, for timely surveillance, reporting and treatment. Thus, anamnesis and early recognition of the epidemiological context are extremely important, with a view to diagnosing and instituting appropriate therapy. In addition, occupational risk factors and exposure control among workers should be considered to prevent transmission in the workplace.

RESUMO Introdução/enquadramento/objetivos A psitacose é uma entidade rara, provocada pela Chlamydophila psittaci. Esta bactéria transmite-se através do contacto com aves contaminadas, nomeadamente as psittaciformes, que incluem papagaios, araras e periquitos, mas também outras espécies, como pombos e galinhas. O objetivo deste trabalho é evidenciar a patologia e o papel da Saúde Ocupacional neste contexto. Metodologia Foi realizada uma pesquisa bibliográfica de artigos publicados em português e inglês, em junho de 2022, nas bases de dados PubMed e Cochrane Library, utilizando as palavras-chave “Psittacosis”, “Occupational exposure” e “Occupational health”. Incluíram-se ainda três artigos, não abrangidos pela pesquisa, relevantes para o trabalho, por espelharem a realidade portuguesa. Conteúdo Os surtos podem ocorrer em trabalhadores com ocupações que envolvam contato com aves vivas ou carcaças, como veterinários, criadores ou trabalhadores de lojas de animais. No entanto, é difícil estabelecer a incidência e prevalência precisas da psitacose, provavelmente devido à falta de rastreios de rotina. A transmissão acontece, maioritariamente, por aerossóis, inalação de urina, fezes ou outras partículas contaminadas; a transmissão entre humanos, embora possível, é rara. O período de incubação varia de cinco a 14 dias, mas pode estender-se por semanas em casos de infeção subaguda ou latente. Tem uma apresentação clínica semelhante a uma síndrome gripal, podendo provocar doença disseminada e até potencialmente fatal. Os achados mais frequentes na radiografia do tórax são consolidação segmentar ou lobar, principalmente nos lobos inferiores. Pode ocasionalmente causar leucocitose marcada, a proteína c-reativa (PCR) encontra-se frequentemente elevada e enzimas hepáticas alteradas em aproximadamente metade dos pacientes hospitalizados, com elevação do aspartato aminotransferase (AST) e baixos níveis séricos de albumina. As tetraciclinas são o fármaco de eleição para o tratamento. Discussão e Conclusões Apesar do número de casos ser aparentemente reduzido, o impacto da doença é muito provavelmente subestimado. Assim, torna-se necessário um aumento da consciencialização desta patologia tanto para os profissionais de Saúde Ocupacional, como para os próprios empregadores e trabalhadores. Por outro lado, é necessária uma abordagem que englobe a colaboração entre agências de saúde humana e animal, laboratórios e profissionais médicos e veterinários, para vigilância, notificação e tratamento atempados. Assim, são importantíssimos a anamnese e o reconhecimento precoce do contexto epidemiológico, tendo em vista o diagnóstico e a instituição da terapêutica adequada. Associadamente, devem ser considerados os fatores de risco ocupacional e controlo das exposições entre os trabalhadores, de forma a prevenir a transmissão no local de trabalho.

ABSTRACT Background: Domestic pigeons carry pathogens in their droppings, posing a potential public health problem. Methods: The phenotypic and genotypic antimicrobial resistances of Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecium in the feces of urban pigeons near hospitals with intensive care units were measured. Results: Twenty-nine samples showed Enterococcus growth, whereas one was positive for S. aureus. The S. aureus isolate was sensitive to the antibiotics tested via antibiogram, however resistance genes were identified. E. faecium isolates showed phenotypic resistance to gentamicin, erythromycin, and ciprofloxacin. Conclusions: Antimicrobial profiles harmful to health were demonstrated in bacterial pathogens isolated from the external environment of hospitals.

Resumo A coccidiose continua sendo um dos maiores problemas em aves de todo o mundo. Dados muito limitados sobre drogas anticoccidiais em pombos selvagens estão disponíveis. O presente estudo teve como objetivo compreender a eficácia comparativa da sulfadimidina, amprólio e triquenho em pombos selvagens do distrito de Dir, no Paquistão, que sofrem de coccidiose. A matéria fecal dos pombos selvagens foi comprada no mercado local para infecção por coccídios. Os resultados revelaram que 88,8% (16/18) foram encontrados infectados com Eimeria spp. Três grupos positivos foram tratados com sulfadimidina (0,2mg / L), amprólio (25mg / L) e triquenho. A sulfadimidina foi mais eficaz (45%), seguida pelo amprólio (44,6%), enquanto o triquenho (24,0%) apresentou menor efetividade contra a coccidiose em pombos. O número de oocistos foram 79, 81 e 80 antes do tratamento e 60, 44 e 44 após o tratamento com sulfadimidina, amprólio e triquenho, respectivamente. Este estudo mostrou que sulphadimidine, amprolium e triquen não poderiam reduzir significativamente a coccidiose em pombos. Mais estudos são necessários para limpar o mecanismo de drogas anticoccidiais em pombos selvagens.

Abstract Coccidiosis remains one of the major problems in poultry all over the world. Very limited data on anticoccidial drugs in wild pigeons is available. The current study was aimed to understand the comparative efficacy of sulfadimidine, amprolium and triquen in wild pigeons of Dir district, Pakistan suffering from coccidiosis. The faecal matter of wild pigeons were purchased from the local market for coccidian infection. Results revealed that 88.8% (16/18) were found infected with Eimeria spp. Three positive groups were treated with sulfadimidine (0.2mg/L), amprolium (25mg/L) and triquen. Sulfadimidine was most effective (45%) followed by amprolium (44.6%) while triquen (24.0%) showed less effectiveness against coccidiosis in pigeons. Number of oocysts were 79, 81 and 80 before treatment and 60, 44 and 44 after treatment with sulfadimidine, amprolium and triquen respectively. This study showed that sulphadimidine, amprolium and triquen could not significantly reduce the coccidiosis in pigeons. Further studies are required to clear the mechanism of anti-coccidial drugs in wild pigeons.

Resumen La paloma doméstica (Columba livia) fue introducida de Europa a América del Norte a principios del siglo XVII, y con ella sus enfermedades. La infección por parásitos de los géneros Eimeria e Isospora por lo regular afectan el tracto intestinal y pueden ocasionar enfermedad entérica en aves silvestres y domésticas. Mundialmente, al menos 5 especies de Eimeria han sido descritas en la paloma doméstica. En este trabajo describimos por primera vez los ooquistes esporulados de E. columbarum en muestras fecales de paloma doméstica de la ciudad de Toluca, México.

Abstract The Rock Pigeon (Columba livia) was initially introduced to North America from Europe in XVII century, along with its diseases. Infections by parasites of the genera Eimeria and Isospora affect the intestinal tract and produce enteric disease in wild and domestic birds. Worldwide, at least 5 Eimeria spp. have been described in the domestic pigeon. Here we provide the first description of E. columbarum sporulated oocysts in faecal samples of domestic pigeons from Toluca City, Mexico.

RESUMEN El objetivo del estudio fue determinar el perfil hematológico de la paloma (Columba livia) criada en la costa norte del Perú. Se utilizaron 96 muestras de sangre de palomas juveniles y adultas (51 hembras y 45 machos). Las muestras fueron colectadas en tubos con anticoagulante entre abril y diciembre de 2019. Se utilizaron las técnicas hematológicas de Natt y Herrick (recuento de glóbulos rojos y blancos), método de microhematocrito (hematocrito), método de cianometahemoglobina (hemoglobina) y frotis de sangre teñidos con coloración Wright (recuento diferencial de leucocitos y contaje de plaquetas). Los valores para hembras juveniles y adultas y machos juveniles y adultos fueron de 262.4±48.5, 308.8±38.0, 258.2±56.1 y 303.8±42.9 g, hematocrito de 40.8±4.9, 45.8±3.9, 40.9±3.4 y 43.6±5.2%, hemoglobina de 14.1±1.9, 15.4±1.8, 13.9±1.9 y 14.8±2.6 g/dl, recuento de glóbulos rojos de 3.09±1.0, 3.1±0.6, 3.0±0.8 y 3.3±0.7 x106/µl, plaquetas de 32.4±12.9, 35.9±8.8, 33.6±12.5 y 34.0±10.7 x103/µl, glóbulos blancos de 19.8±1.4, 17.6±0.9, 18.2±1.0 y 17.0±1.0 x103/µl, y ratio heterófilos/linfocitos de 1.8, 1.5, 1.7 y 1.4, respectivamente. Los valores promedio encontrados estaban dentro de lo reportado para el orden Columbiforme.

ABSTRACT The aim if this study was to determine the haematological profile of the pigeon (Columba livia) raised on the north coast of Peru. In total, 96 blood samples from juvenile and adult pigeons (51 females and 45 males) were used. Samples were collected in tubes with anticoagulant between April and December 2019. Natt and Herrick haematological techniques (red and white blood cell count), microhematocrit method (hematocrit), cyanmethemoglobin method (haemoglobin) and stained blood smears with Wright staining (differential leukocyte count and platelet count) were used. The values for juvenile and adult females and juvenile and adult males were 262.4±48.5, 308.8±38.0, 258.2±56.1 and 303.8±42.9 g, haematocrit of 40.8±4.9, 45.8±3.9, 40.9±3.4 and 43.6±5.2% , haemoglobin of 14.1±1.9, 15.4±1.8, 13.9±1.9 and 14.8±2.6 g/dl, red blood cell count of 3.09±1.0, 3.1±0.6, 3.0±0.8 and 3.3±0.7x106/µl, platelets of 32.4±12.9, 35.9±8.8, 33.6±12.5 and 34.0±10.7x103/µl, white blood cells of 19.8±1.4, 17.6±0.9, 18.2±1.0 and 17.0±1.0x103/µl, and heterophile/ lymphocyte ratio of 1.8, 1.5, 1.7 and 1.4, respectively. The average values found were within those reported for the Columbiform order.

ABSTRACT We assessed the effect of health sand dietary supplementation with methionine (Met) on White King pigeons. Paired pigeons (n = 180) were fed one of five diets; group T1 received no added Met, while T2, T3, T4 and T5 received 30, 60, 90 and 120 g of supplemental DL-Met/kg, respectively. Each treatment was replicated three times with 24 pairs in each replicate. The results showed that supplementary Met had a minor effect on the length of the fourth primary wing feather in 28-day-old squabs (p>0.05), but the length of 14-day-old squabs in T2 was significantly longer (p=0.010). Dietary Met had a minor effect on Wnt-7a and fibroblast growth factor receptors-2 (FGFR-2) mRNA levels in 28-day-old squabs (p>0.05). The IGF-1 concentration in plasma was highest in T4 and lowest in T2 (p=0.012), but there was no difference between T1, T2 and T5 (p>0.05). In the chest muscle, the expression of IGF-1 in T3 and T4 was higher than in T1 (p=0.172 and 0.015, respectively). In the leg muscle, IGF-1 mRNA level was higher in T4 and T3, and lower in T2 (p>0.05). The results indicate that the optimal Met supplement for increasing fourth primary wing feather length was 30 g/kg Met in health sand, and the feathers were the longest in 14-day-old squabs. Adding 90 g/kg Met to health sand can improve the concentration of IGF-1, which is important for growth performance of pigeon squabs.

Abstract Passeriformes and Psittaciformes birds and pigeons (Columba livia) are known to be reservoirs of microorganisms, and their stool allows fungi development. Since accumulated avian excreta can interfere with public health, this study aimed to perform a molecular screening of medically important Candida species in pigeon droppings in public places and birds raised in captivity. Excreta collected from captive birds (3 residences) and pigeons (4 districts) were inoculated on Sabouraud dextrose agar with chloramphenicol for Gram staining and subculture on Hicrome® Candida. Three DNA extraction methods were performed for comparison (commercial kit, in-house and by boiling) and PCR to screen 6 clinically important Candida species among the isolates. The correlation between phenotypic and molecular methods was calculated by kappa/K. Only 6 C. parapsilosis (20%) were identified from captive birds’ feces among 30 isolates (80% not identified), while pigeons’ feces harbored a greater diversity, with the 6 pathogenic species confirmed among 41 isolates: C. albicans (31.70%/13), C. krusei (14.63%/6), C. tropicalis (14.63%/6), C. parapsilosis (17.10%/7), C. glabrata (14.63%/6) and C. guilliermondii (7.31%/3); 100% correlation between tested methods (K = 1) for the first 3 species. Boiling DNA extraction method was fast and efficient to obtain viable DNA from Candida spp. for PCR. Our results indicate that pigeon droppings harbor more potentially pathogenic species than birds in residential captivity, which probably have non-albicans Candida less frequently isolated in infectious processes. The greater availability of nutrients may have contributed to a diversity of Candida spp. in feces from public environments.

Resumo O presente artigo fornece informações sobre os regimes de alimentação dos dois sexos do pombo-da-rocha-azul (Columba livia Linn.) nos habitats amostrados dos três distritos, a saber: Rawalpindi, Faisalabad e Bahawalpur, da província de Punjab, Paquistão. Este pombo-doméstico, considerado espécie onipresente, habita tanto as pastagens quanto os ambientes agrupados para estabelecer seus poleiros e ninhos. O estudo explorou proporções comparáveis de alimentação de três grandes habitats dos pombos que foram capturados com redes de neblina de tamanho médio. Para Rawalpindi no inverno, Zea mays foi um dos itens alimentares predominantes (30,6%) para os machos, e outros alimentos classificados como principais foram (26,7%; 22,4% e 20,2%), e proporções bastante semelhantes foram registradas para as fêmeas (50,4%, 33,3%, 36,4% e 23,9%) para Carthamus oxyacantha, Hordeum vulgare, Triticum aestivum e Zea mays, respectivamente. Evidentemente, não foram detectados desvios significativos nas culturas alimentares existentes nos três locais para o pombo-doméstico, sugerindo fortemente que os modos de alimentação entre os poleiros e ninhos sustentáveis, que estavam estreitamente localizados em culturas alimentares, exerceram impactos não significativos durante os períodos intermitentes dos movimentos de forrageamento dos pombos-domésticos nas condições diurnas.

Abstract Present paper provides information on the feeding regimens of the two genders of the blue-rock pigeon (Columba livia Linn.) in the sampled habitats of the three districts viz. Rawalpindi, Faisalabad and Bahawalpur of the Punjab province, Pakistan. This feral pigeon, considered ubiquitous species, inhabits both the grasslands and clumped environments to establish their roosts and nests. The study explored about comparable feeding proportions from three major habitats of the pigeons which were captured with medium sized mist-nets. For Rawalpindi in the winter season, the Zea mays was one of the predominant food item (30.6%) for males, and other ranked major food contents were (26.7%, 22.4% and 20.2%), and fairly similar feeding proportions were also recorded for the females (50.4%, 33.3%, 36.4% and 23.9%) for Carthamus oxyacantha, Hordeum vulgare, Triticum aestivum and Zea mays respectively. Evidently, no significant deviations in the existing food crops for the three sites for the feral pigeon were detected, which strongly suggested that the, modes of feeding habits among the sustainable roosts and nests which were closely located to food crops, exerted negligible impacts during intermittent pigeon foraging movements in the diurnal conditions.