Chapter 29: Birds

Animal Models

Birds are studied in various fields such as neurobiology, behavior, and endocrinology.

Aves

The taxonomic class that encompasses all bird species.

Galliformes

An order of birds that includes chickens, turkeys, and quail, commonly known as poultry.

Columbiformes

An order of birds that includes pigeons and doves.

Passeriformes

An order of birds that includes crows, sparrows, and finches, often referred to as passerines.

Cloaca

A single opening in birds used for excretion and reproduction.

Brooders

Heated cages provided for very young birds to prevent chilling.

Behavioral Enrichment

Methods used to promote normal behaviors such as foraging and nesting in captive birds.

Incubation Period

The egg incubation period for most birds, typically 20–22 days.

Euthanasia Techniques

Acceptable methods to humanely euthanize birds, including overdose with barbiturates and inhalant anesthesia.

Body Temperature of Birds

Normal body temperature ranges from 40.6 to 43 °C (105 to 109.4 °F).

Nutritional Requirements

Chickens have well-known dietary needs; non-domestic birds’ nutritional needs are less understood.

Tonic Immobility

A fear response observed in birds when held upside down.

Testes in Male Birds

Male birds possess two testes located near the kidneys, with no accessory sex glands.

Oviduct

The tube in female birds through which the egg travels and is fertilized.

Social Housing

A preferred method of enrichment for galliformes, which aids in their mental well-being.