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Copyright of Arts for Linguistic & Literary Studies is the property of Thamar University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The monk parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus) and the Eurasian collared dove (Streptopelia decaocto) are two of the most prevalent invasive species globally due to their high dispersal ability. Since these birds were first recorded (1999 for the monk parakeet and 2013 for Eurasian collared dove) in the Mexico City Metropolitan Area (MCMA), both species have spread rapidly throughout the area. However, the impacts of global climate changes on the distribution patterns of these species remain poorly studied across the MCMA. Therefore, based on an ecological niche modeling approach, we assessed the expansion and potential invasion of both species in this megalopolis using current and future climate projections (year 2050). Our results estimated that the current suitable areas are 5564 km2 for the monk parakeet and 5489 km2 for the Eurasian collared dove, covering ~70% of the study area, suggesting a rapidly invading species, as expected. We observed a slight decrease (up to 24%) in both species in future climate scenarios, but our models estimated that the sizes of the suitable areas would remain stable. We found that the range expansion of these species in the megalopolis may be largely attributed to their propensity for jump dispersion and short-time niche expansion ability. Our findings allow for a better understanding of the factors contributing to the range expansion of the monk parakeet and the Eurasian collared dove in Mexico and can better inform the monitoring guidelines for and assessments of these invasive species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Early detection of the introduction and establishment of exotic species is crucial to prevent further spread and minimize negative impacts on native species, ecosystems, and agrosystems. Using citizen science and field surveys, this study documents the establishment and expansion of the Bare-eyed Pigeon, Patagioenas corensis, native to South America, on the island of Saint-Martin, the West Indies. Following its introduction about 10 years ago, the species is now expanding fast on the island, where it could compete with native bird species. First observed in coastal areas, the Bare-eyed Pigeon has progressively diversified its habitat use to exploit anthropized areas. Evidence for steady increases in both numbers and reproductive activity on the island calls for rapid management before it is too late. To that end, we strongly recommend adding the exotic Bare-eyed Pigeon to the official list of game species on Saint-Martin. Early reporting of the introduction and establishment of exotic species is of paramount importance for successful management. Here, we report the introduction and rapid spread of the Bare-eyed Pigeon, Patagioenas corensis, on the binational island of Saint-Martin, the West Indies. This range-restricted species naturally occurs in arid coastal areas of Columbia and Venezuela and nearby islands. Its introduction on Saint-Martin represents an expansion of about 1000 km beyond its established native range. Using observations recorded in eBird and results from a recent field survey, we show that since its introduction, most probably between late 2012 and early 2013, the species has expanded fast in Saint-Martin and has recently broadened its habitat to include anthropized, built areas. The expansion of Bare-eyed Pigeon on Saint-Martin and the neighboring Leeward Islands, possibly facilitated by climate change in the future, could be a threat to both native columbid species and other bird species through competition for resources. We therefore recommend that local authorities and stakeholders rapidly eradicate the species or at least prevent its further spread on Saint-Martin, possibly though listing it as a game species, while it is still possible to do so. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The present study aimed to characterize the complete mitochondrial genome of Streptopelia decaocto (Frivaldszky, 1838) and investigated the evolutionary relationships among species within the Columbidae family. The mtDNA full sequence length of S. decaocto was 17,160 bp. The mitogenome of S. decaocto comprised 13 PCGs, 22 tRNA genes, 2 rRNA genes, non-coding regions, and a control region. Analysis of the entire mtDNA of S. decaocto revealed consistently positive AT-skew values, except for nad3, nad6, and the D-loop. Conversely the GC-skew values were consistently negative, except for nad6. These findings suggest that S. decaocto belongs to the Columbinae subfamily. In this research, the mitochondrial genome of the Streptopelia decaocto was sequenced and examined for the first time to enhance the comprehension of the phylogenetic relationships within the Columbidae. The complete mitochondrial genome of Streptopelia decaocto (17,160 bp) was structurally similar to the recognized members of the Columbidae family, but with minor differences in gene size and arrangement. The structural AT content was 54.12%. Additionally, 150 mitochondrial datasets, representing valid species, were amassed in this investigation. Maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI) phylogenetic trees and evolutionary time relationships of species were reconstructed based on cytb gene sequences. The findings from the phylogenetic evaluations suggest that the S. decaocto was classified under the Columbinae subfamily, diverging from the Miocene approximately 8.1 million years ago, indicating intricate evolutionary connections with its close relatives, implying a history of species divergence and geographic isolation. The diversification of the Columbidae commenced during the Late Oligocene and extended into the Miocene. This exploration offers crucial molecular data for the S. decaocto, facilitating the systematic taxonomic examination of the Columbidae and Columbiformes, and establishing a scientific foundation for species preservation and genetic resource management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Zoologica Lilloana is the property of Fundacion Miguel Lillo and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background Standardized Letters of Evaluation (SLOEs) are an important part of resident selection in many specialties. Often written by a group, such letters may ask writers to rate applicants in different domains. Prior studies have noted inflated ratings; however, the degree to which individual institutions are "doves" (higher rating) or "hawks" (lower rating) is unclear. Objective To characterize institutional SLOE rating distributions to inform readers and developers regarding potential threats to validity from disparate rating practices. Methods Data from emergency medicine (EM) SLOEs between 2016 and 2021 were obtained from a national database. SLOEs from institutions with at least 10 letters per year in all years were included. Ratings on one element of the SLOE—the "global assessment of performance" item (Top 10%, Top Third, Middle Third, and Lower Third)—were analyzed numerically and stratified by predefined criteria for grading patterns (Extreme Dove, Dove, Neutral, Hawk, Extreme Hawk) and adherence to established guidelines (Very High, High, Neutral, Low, Very Low). Results Of 40 286 SLOEs, 20 407 met inclusion criteria. Thirty-five to 50% of institutions displayed Neutral grading patterns across study years, with most other institutional patterns rated as Dove or Extreme Dove. Adherence to guidelines was mixed and fewer than half of institutions had Very High or High adherence each year. Most institutions underutilize the Lower Third rating. Conclusions Despite explicit guidelines for the distribution of global assessment ratings in the EM SLOE, there is high variability in institutional rating practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Colour aberrations are rare conditions in birds that are caused by genetic as well as environmental factors. Among the colour aberrations in birds, albino, leucism, progressive greying, brown, dilution, ino, and melanism are the best known. This report describes an observation of colour aberration in a Spotted Dove (Spilopelia chinensis suratensis) from India. It was recorded in the Deobali Jalah (an IBA site) of Nagaon district, Assam. The recorded individual exhibited a pale plumage with normal eyes and some light brown colour in some of the feathers, indicating this to be a form of dilution. The report also represents the first photographic documentation of colour aberration in Spotted Doves from Brahmaputra Valley of Assam, India. Further research is necessary to comprehend the causes of colour aberration in Spotted Doves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Algeria hosts seven species of the Columbidae family, including pigeons and doves, the majority of which have been the subject of numerous studies, but none have been conducted on the Stock Dove (Columba oenas). Data on this species are still scarce, and its distribution is limited only to Kabylie in northern Algeria. Species occurrence data were collected from September 2022 to August 2023 using the point count method. However, the species was recently recorded in several new localities (20 stations) in West Algeria, at Sidi Bel Abbès and Tlemcen. All our observations were made in a semi-arid bioclimatic area at an altitude ranging between 750 and 1,216 m. Nesting sites were located on woodland and forest edges, not far from water sources, and feeding sites were located in open, natural, or agricultural environments where cereal seeds, grasses, flower buds, and young green shoots were consumed. It could also cohabit with other species of pigeons and doves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ascaridia species are the most common nematodes infecting pigeons. The current study investigated specific identity of nematode parasites collected from domestic pigeons (Columba livia domestica) in Al-Qassim Region, Saudi Arabia. Out of 354 pigeons, 13.3 % were infected with nematode parasites. The morphological structure and genetic relationship of nematode worms were studied using conventional methods (Light and scanning electron microscopes) coupled with the newly introduced molecular method. Microscopical and ultrastructure observations showed that the present nematode worms belong to the genus Ascaridia and have all the characteristic features of Ascaridia columbae. Moreover, Random Amplifier morphometric (RAPD) PCR analysis revealed that the present A. columbae had a close identity of up to 98.3 % to Ascaridia columbae JX624729 for Cox-1 gene regions, and up to 98.3 % to Ascaridia nymphii LC057210, and Ascaridia galli EF180058 for ITS1-5.8s- ITS2 rDNA gene regions. Phylogenetic analysis supported the placement of this Ascaridia species within Ascaridiidae family with close relationships to other nematode species obtained from GenBank. Finally, our study recommends using molecular analysis in helminths identification as the main methodology for correct identification especially in closely related species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dove, the most frequently mentioned bird in the Hebrew Bible, appears in diverse contexts, spanning its appearance as an element in the narrative (as in the case of Noah's ark), and as an allegory and metaphor (as in the cryptic "sword of the dove"—twice in Jeremiah—and "the city of the dove"—Zephaniah). The dove even appears as the proper name of a prophet (or possibly of two, both named Jonah, son of Amittai). This article applies a communication perspective to better interpret some of these texts. We argue that the dove's communicative attributes, to include unique acoustics, remarkable power of flight, but primarily the trait of returning home—the basis for the use of doves as carrier pigeons—may either explain or deepen the interpretation of many of the references to the pigeon in the Bible. In this vein, a major focus of the article is on using the dove's homing ability as a key for reinterpreting the Book of Jonah. We conclude by suggesting that the dove's trait of returning and, hence, its use as envoy made it a useful symbol of the deity's presence in the world. In the Jewish reading, it became an emblem of one of the main political and eschatological themes of the Bible: the return home from exile, beginning with the exodus and return of Jacob's sons to Canaan and ending with the Eschaton. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We characterized naturally occurring pigeon herpesvirus (PiHV; Columbid alphaherpesvirus 1) infection in domestic pigeons in California. We retrieved and analyzed 62 pathology reports produced between 1991 and 2014 at the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System. In 56 of the cases, the diagnosis of PiHV infection was established based on histopathology, either alone (44 cases) or combined with virus isolation (VI; 8), transmission electron microscopy (TEM; 3), or PCR (1); in the remaining 6 cases, the diagnosis was established based on VI (5 cases) or TEM (1) alone. PiHV infection affected 1 system in 34, 2 in 16, and ≥3 systems in 6 cases; data were not available for the remaining 6 cases. Most commonly affected was the digestive system (55 cases), followed by the respiratory tract (5) and lymphoid system (2). The liver (39 cases), crop (17), and esophagus (14) were the organs affected most commonly. Many affected cells often bore single eosinophilic intranuclear inclusion bodies. PiHV infection was a secondary diagnosis or incidental finding in 35 cases. Most (55) cases had 1 (21), or up to 4 (34), other concurrent infections; the most common concurrent infections were pigeon circoviral infection (26), trichomonosis (24), aspergillosis (11), and colibacillosis (10).

Introduction: Avian orthoavulavirus-1 (AOAV1) has a wide host range, including domestic and wild birds. The present study aimed to identify the currently circulating AOAV1 strains from some outbreaks in some backyard pigeons in the eastern region of Saudi Arabia (ERSA). Methods: Tracheal/cloacal swabs and tissue specimens were collected from eight backyards in Al-Ahsa, ERSA, between January 2021 and March 2023. Samples were tested for the presence of AOAV1 using commercial real-time RTPCR. Part of the fusion gene was also amplified by gel-based RT-PCR, and the obtained amplicons were sequenced. Results and discussion: AOAV1 was detected in samples from the eight flocks. The retrieved sequences from samples of 6/8 pigeon backyards are reported. Phylogenetic analysis based on the obtained sequences from these backyard pigeons showed the segregation of the obtained sequences in AOAV1 genotypes VI.2.1 and VII.1.1. Clinically, nervous manifestations were dominant in pigeons infected with both genotypes. Respiratory manifestations and significantly higher overall mortality rate were induced by genotype VI.2.1. The deduced amino acid sequences of the fusion protein cleavage site (FPCS) showed that all the detected isolates belong to velogenic strains. Dierences in clinical profiles induced by the natural infection of pigeons with AOAV1 genotypes VI.2.1 and VII.1.1 were reported. The present findings highlight the potential roles of some backyard pigeons in the long-distance spread and cross-species transmission of the reported AOAVI genotypes. Further research is required to perform biotyping and pathotyping of the reported strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Field Ornithology is the property of Resilience Alliance and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Avian takeoff requires peak pectoralis muscle power to generate sufficient aerodynamic force during the downstroke. Subsequently, the much smaller supracoracoideus recovers the wing during the upstroke. How the pectoralis work loop is tuned to power flight is unclear. We integrate wingbeat-resolved muscle, kinematic, and aerodynamic recordings in vivo with a new mathematical model to disentangle how the pectoralis muscle overcomes wing inertia and generates aerodynamic force during takeoff in doves. Doves reduce the angle of attack of their wing mid-downstroke to efficiently generate aerodynamic force, resulting in an aerodynamic power dip, that allows transferring excess pectoralis power into tensioning the supracoracoideus tendon to assist the upstroke--improving the pectoralis work loop efficiency simultaneously. Integrating extant bird data, our model shows how the pectoralis of birds with faster wingtip speed need to generate proportionally more power. Finally, birds with disproportionally larger wing inertia need to activate the pectoralis earlier to tune their downstroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated within- and between-individual song variation and song-based neighbour-stranger discrimination in a non-learning bird species, the blue-headed wood-dove (Turtur brehmeri), which inhabits lowland rainforests of West and Central Africa. We found that songs of this species are individually specific and have a high potential for use in individual recognition based on the time–frequency pattern of note distribution within song phrases. To test whether these differences affect behaviour, we conducted playback experiments with 19 territorial males. Each male was tested twice, once with the songs of a familiar neighbour and once with the songs of an unfamiliar stranger. We observed that males responded more aggressively to playback of a stranger's songs: they quickly approached close to the speaker and spent more time near it. However, no significant differences between treatments were observed in the vocal responses. In addition, we explored whether responses differed based on the song frequency of the focal male and/or that of the simulated intruder (i.e., playback), as this song parameter is inversely related to body size and could potentially affect males' decisions to respond to other birds. Song frequency parameters (of either the focal male or the simulated intruder) had no effect on the approaching response during playback. However, we found that the pattern of response after playback was significantly affected by the song frequency of the focal male: males with lower-frequency songs stayed closer to the simulated intruder for a longer period of time without singing, while males with higher-frequency songs returned more quickly to their initial song posts and resumed singing. Together, these results depict a consistently strong response to strangers during and after playback that is dependent on a male's self-assessment rather than assessment of a rival's strength based on his song frequency. This work provides the first experimental evidence that doves (Columbidae) can use songs for neighbour-stranger discrimination and respond according to a "dear enemy" scheme that keeps the cost of territory defence at a reasonable level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pigeons and doves (family Columbidae) are one of the most diverse extant avian lineages, and many species have served as key models for evolutionary genomics, developmental biology, physiology, and behavioral studies. Building genomic resources for columbids is essential to further many of these studies. Here, we present high-quality genome assemblies and annotations for 2 columbid species, Columba livia and Columba guinea. We simultaneously assembled C. livia and C. guinea genomes from long-read sequencing of a single F1 hybrid individual. The new C. livia genome assembly (Cliv_3) shows improved completeness and contiguity relative to Cliv_2.1, with an annotation incorporating long-read IsoSeq data for more accurate gene models. Intensive selective breeding of C. livia has given rise to hundreds of breeds with diverse morphological and behavioral characteristics, and Cliv_3 offers improved tools for mapping the genomic architecture of interesting traits. The C. guinea genome assembly is the first for this species and is a new resource for avian comparative genomics. Together, these assemblies and annotations provide improved resources for functional studies of columbids and avian comparative genomics in general. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses Suzanne Pinckney Stetkevych's book, "The Cooing of the Dove and the Cawing of the Crow," which focuses on the late ¿Abb¿sid poet Ab¿ al-¿Al¿¿ al-Ma¿arr¿ and his major diwans, Saq¿ al-Zand and Luz¿m M¿ L¿ Yalzam. The book examines al-Ma¿arr¿'s evolution as a poet and analyzes his poems using performance-based and stylistics-based approaches. It provides valuable insights into al-Ma¿arr¿'s use of traditional literary conventions and his innovative approach to poetry. The author of the article praises the fresh and innovative approach of Suzanne Pinckney Stetkevych, which offers new perspectives for analyzing Arabic poetry and non-Western comparative literature. [Extracted from the article]

We studied object-location binding in pigeons using a sequence learning procedure. A sequence of four objects was presented, one at a time at one of four locations on a touchscreen. A single peck at the object ended the trial, and food reinforcement was delivered intermittently. In Experiment 1, a between-subjects design was used to present objects, locations, or both in a regular sequence or randomly. Response time costs on nonreinforced probe tests on which object order, location order, or both were disrupted revealed sequence learning effects. Pigeons encoded location order when it was consistent, but not object order when it alone was consistent. When both were consistent, pigeons encoded both, and showed evidence of object-location binding. In Experiment 2, two groups of pigeons received training on sequences where the same object always appeared at the same location. For some pigeons a consistent sequence was used while for others sequence order was randomized. Only when sequence order was consistent was object-location binding found. These experiments are the first demonstrations of strong and lasting feature binding in pigeons and are consistent with a functional account of learning.

Early reporting of the introduction and establishment of exotic species is of paramount importance for successful management. Here, we report the introduction and rapid spread of the Bare-eyed Pigeon, Patagioenas corensis, on the binational island of Saint-Martin, the West Indies. This range-restricted species naturally occurs in arid coastal areas of Columbia and Venezuela and nearby islands. Its introduction on Saint-Martin represents an expansion of about 1000 km beyond its established native range. Using observations recorded in eBird and results from a recent field survey, we show that since its introduction, most probably between late 2012 and early 2013, the species has expanded fast in Saint-Martin and has recently broadened its habitat to include anthropized, built areas. The expansion of Bare-eyed Pigeon on Saint-Martin and the neighboring Leeward Islands, possibly facilitated by climate change in the future, could be a threat to both native columbid species and other bird species through competition for resources. We therefore recommend that local authorities and stakeholders rapidly eradicate the species or at least prevent its further spread on Saint-Martin, possibly though listing it as a game species, while it is still possible to do so.

In this research, the mitochondrial genome of the Streptopelia decaocto was sequenced and examined for the first time to enhance the comprehension of the phylogenetic relationships within the Columbidae. The complete mitochondrial genome of Streptopelia decaocto (17,160 bp) was structurally similar to the recognized members of the Columbidae family, but with minor differences in gene size and arrangement. The structural AT content was 54.12%. Additionally, 150 mitochondrial datasets, representing valid species, were amassed in this investigation. Maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI) phylogenetic trees and evolutionary time relationships of species were reconstructed based on cytb gene sequences. The findings from the phylogenetic evaluations suggest that the S. decaocto was classified under the Columbinae subfamily, diverging from the Miocene approximately 8.1 million years ago, indicating intricate evolutionary connections with its close relatives, implying a history of species divergence and geographic isolation. The diversification of the Columbidae commenced during the Late Oligocene and extended into the Miocene. This exploration offers crucial molecular data for the S. decaocto, facilitating the systematic taxonomic examination of the Columbidae and Columbiformes, and establishing a scientific foundation for species preservation and genetic resource management.

The Castile pigeon (Columba livia Gmelin, 1789), native to Africa and Eurasia, is widely distributed in most of Europe, western Asia, Africa and America. Columba livia was introduced to Peru by the Spanish in the 16th century. It lives in urban and rural areas; in recent decades its population has grown exponentially around the world; it is considered to be a commensal species of the human being and in some cases in the cities it colonizes, it causes damage to the infrastructure and constitutes a risk to public health. Although its origin is wild, it behaves as one of the species with the greatest interaction with humans. The increase in its population in cities has turned it into a pest species. This review describes the current state of knowledge of Columba livia populations, its possible effects on the health of the human population, public ornamentation and the analysis of its status as an invasive exotic species, five centuries after its introduction into the Peru. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Brazil, the number of animals killed by vehicle collision surpasses 475 millions/year, but the actual number may be even higher since roadkill data in the country is scarce and punctual. Using a standard protocol, the project Caminhos da Fauna monitored since 2006 the avifauna roadkill in the BR-040 (RJ/MG) highway, southeastern Brazil. Here, we present a checklist of the avifauna registered during the 10-year monitoring program, including the list of roadkills, indicating threatening status at regional, national, and global levels, and the number of records/species. We registered 1,317 individuals belonging to 180 species, 21 orders, and 48 families. Another 247 individuals could not be identified. For seven families roadkills were higher than 50 individuals: Thraupidae, Cuculidae, Strigidae, Tyrannidae, Psittacidae, Columbidae, and Turdidae. The most collected species were Crotophaga ani (n = 106; Cuculidae), followed by Psittacara leucophthalmus (n = 61; Psittacidae), Piaya cayana (n = 56; Cuculidae), and Asio clamator (n = 44; Strigidae). Five species were under threat: Penelope obscura, Primolius maracana, Pteroglossus bailloni, Ramphastos vitellinus, and Sicalis flaveola. Most species were geographically widespread, while other 13 (7.2%) were endemic. Given the considerable amount of data obtained, further efforts of the same motivation in other Brazilian roads and express transportation systems should be encouraged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Birds have a diverse acoustic communication system, and the ability to recognise their own species' song from a distance facilitates complex behaviours related to mate attraction and rival deterrence. However, certain species, including doves, do not learn songs and their vocal repertoires are much simpler than those of better-studied songbirds. In these so-called non-learning birds, relatively little is known about the role that bird song plays in intra- and interspecific interactions, and how such behaviours might be acquired (inherited or learned from experience). To investigate this question, we focused on two species of African wood doves whose long-range songs are used in a territorial context. Specifically, we examined the responses of sympatric and allopatric populations of male blue-headed wood-doves (Turtur brehmeri) and tambourine doves (Turtur tympanistria) to different types of simulated territorial intrusions, i.e. playback of conspecific, congeneric, and control songs. We aimed to assess (i) whether these species, which have similar songs, respond only to their own species' song or exhibit interspecific territoriality, and (ii) if the response pattern is affected by the presence or absence of congeners in the general area. We found that both species responded strongly to playback of their own species in both sympatric and allopatric populations. In allopatry, though, male tambourine doves misdirected their response and also approached the playback of congeneric songs. Our results indicate that, in areas where the studied Turtur doves live in sympatry, they do not exhibit consistent interspecific territoriality. However, we cannot exclude the possibility that the smaller tambourine dove avoids its larger congener during the process of territory establishment. The difference in tambourine doves' response toward the song of present (sympatric) or absent (allopatric) congeners suggests that the ability to discriminate between songs of similarly singing potential competitors is acquired through earlier interactions and learning. This plasticity in response supports the misdirected aggression hypothesis, which argues that interspecific territorialism emerges as a maladaptive by-product of signal similarity. However, on an evolutionary timescale, such an ability could be considered an adaptive cognitive tool useful for resolving competing interests with congeners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To reduce bird collisions on wind turbines, Automatic Detection Systems have been developed to locate approaching birds and trigger turbines to slowdown to 2–3 rotations per minute (rpm). However, it is unknown whether birds can detect this reduced speed and avoid the turbine. We conducted an operant conditioning experiment on domestic doves (Streptopelia roseogrisea) and Harris's hawks (Parabuteo unicinctus) to assess their ability to discriminate between stationary and rotating miniature wind turbines, depending on the rotation speed and the contrast between the white blades and the background (only for doves for the latter). At high contrast, regardless of the speed tested, hawks were able to differentiate between the rotating and stationary turbines, while doves were not able to discriminate the slow‐rotating turbine (3 rpm) from the stationary one. The discrimination threshold increased to 8 rpm for the doves when the contrast was reduced. Our results suggest that the residual wind turbine speed of 2–3 rpm may not be detected by all bird species under all environmental conditions. Increasing the contrast between wind turbines and their environment may improve the detection of low‐speed rotation by some birds, otherwise, complete turbine shutdown should be recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVES: Internal medicine clerkship grades are important for residency selection, but inconsistencies between evaluator ratings threaten their ability to accurately represent student performance and perceived fairness. Clerkship grading committees are recommended as best practice, but the mechanisms by which they promote accuracy and fairness are not certain. The ability of a committee to reliably assess and account for grading stringency of individual evaluators has not been previously studied. METHODS: This is a retrospective analysis of evaluations completed by faculty considered to be stringent, lenient, or neutral graders by members of a grading committee of a single medical college. Faculty evaluations were assessed for differences in ratings on individual skills and recommendations for final grade between perceived stringency categories. Logistic regression was used to determine if actual assigned ratings varied based on perceived faculty's grading stringency category. RESULTS: "Easy graders" consistently had the highest probability of awarding an above-average rating, and "hard graders" consistently had the lowest probability of awarding an above-average rating, though this finding only reached statistical significance only for 2 of 8 questions on the evaluation form (P =.033 and P =.001). Odds ratios of assigning a higher final suggested grade followed the expected pattern (higher for "easy" and "neutral" compared to "hard," higher for "easy" compared to "neutral") but did not reach statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS: Perceived differences in faculty grading stringency have basis in reality for clerkship evaluation elements. However, final grades recommended by faculty perceived as "stringent" or "lenient" did not differ. Perceptions of "hawks" and "doves" are not just lore but may not have implications for students' final grades. Continued research to describe the "hawk and dove effect" will be crucial to enable assessment of local grading variation and empower local educational leadership to correct, but not overcorrect, for this effect to maintain fairness in student evaluations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Avian viral diseases usually cause high economic losses because of high morbidity and mortality and poor growth. The rearing of chickens in backyards could have an important role in the spread of certain diseases, particularly those of viral origin. Infected birds might be prone to many viral infections for several reasons, including a lack of vaccination programs, the mixing of different bird species in the same location, and the close interactions of these birds with wild and migratory birds carrying various pathogens. This study aimed to conduct serological surveillance of avian encephalomyelitis virus (AEV) in some backyard chickens in the eastern region of Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: Serum samples (n = 368) were collected from domestic chickens reared in 10 backyards in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. None of the domestic birds in these 10 backyards were vaccinated against the virus. In addition, 78 serum samples were collected from free-ranging birds belonging to Columbidae, such as pigeons and doves, in common areas near the domestic backyards. We tested these sera for specific antibodies against AEV. Results: Our results revealed seroconversion to AEV among the examined chickens (14.6%). None of the tested pigeons and doves displayed seroconversion to AEV. Conclusion: Seroconversion of these non-vaccinated birds against AEV was suggestive of a recent natural infection by this virus. Further studies with a large number of birds are required to molecularly characterize the circulating strains of this virus in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nesting behavior of the Yellow-footed Green Pigeon Treron phoenicopterus was observed during its breeding season in 2021 in an urban region encompassing the Aligarh Muslim University Campus and the surrounding areas. Data were collected by searching nests in the study area. The breeding season for the species in the study sites begins in March and re-nesting is attempted even in July. A total of 31 nests were found on 24 trees belonging to eight species. The analysis of nest site characteristics revealed that Millingtonia hortensis, Azadirachta indica, and Dalbergia sissoo were the most important nest tree species, accounting for 69% of the identified nests during the study period. These findings contribute to our understanding of the nesting behavior of the Yellow-footed Green Pigeon in an urban environment and have implications for its conservation and management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review collated existing data on the occurrence, distribution, and prevalence of haemoparasites of poultry in sub-Saharan Africa. A literature search was conducted on three electronic search databases using search terms and Boolean operators (AND, OR). The results recorded 16 haemoparasites, viz., Leucocytozoon spp., L. marchouxi, L. neavei, L. sabrazesi, L. schoutedeni, Haemoproteus columbae, H. pratasi, Haemoproteus spp., Plasmodium spp., P. gallinaceum, P. circumflexum, P. juxtanucleare, Trypanosoma avium, T. gallinarum, T. numidae, and Hepatozoon spp. from a wide range of poultry species distributed across Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Cameroon, and Zambia. Infections due to Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon species were the most common and documented in eight of the ten reviewed countries. The presence of mixed infections was observed in quails, pigeons, chickens, ducks, turkeys, and guineafowls, but predominantly in chickens. Co-infections by Plasmodium spp. and Haemoproteus spp. were the most common, which may be attributed to the distribution of these species, coupled with the availability of vectors they are associated with in areas from which they were documented. The information generated in this review is essential for improving existing preventive and control measures of these parasites in sub-Saharan Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigation of the negative impacts of stress on reproduction has largely centered around the effects of the adrenal steroid hormone, corticosterone (CORT), and its influence on a system of tissues vital for reproduction-the hypothalamus of the brain, the pituitary gland, and the gonads (the HPG axis). Research on the action of CORT on the HPG axis has predominated the stress and reproductive biology literature, potentially overshadowing other influential mediators. To gain a more complete understanding of how elevated CORT affects transcriptomic activity of the HPG axis, we experimentally examined its role in male and female rock doves (Columba livia). We exogenously administrated CORT to mimic circulating levels during the stress response, specifically 30 min of restraint stress, an experimental paradigm known to increase circulating CORT in vertebrates. We examined all changes in transcription within each level of the HPG axis as compared to both restraint-stressed birds and vehicle-injected controls. We also investigated the differential transcriptomic response to CORT and restraint-stress in each sex. We report causal and sex-specific effects of CORT on the HPG transcriptomic stress response. Restraint stress caused 1567 genes to uniquely differentially express while elevated circulating CORT was responsible for the differential expression of 304 genes. Only 108 genes in females and 8 in males differentially expressed in subjects that underwent restraint stress and those who were given exogenous CORT. In response to elevated CORT and restraint-stress, both sexes shared the differential expression of 5 genes, KCNJ5, CISH, PTGER3, CEBPD, and ZBTB16, all located in the pituitary. The known functions of these genes suggest potential influence of elevated CORT on immune function and prolactin synthesis. Gene expression unique to each sex indicated that elevated CORT affected more gene transcription in females than males (78 genes versus 3 genes, respectively). To our knowledge, this is the first study to isolate the role of CORT in HPG genomic transcription during a stress response. We present an extensive and openly accessible view of the role corticosterone in the HPG transcriptomic stress response. Because the HPG system is well conserved across vertebrates, these data have the potential to inspire new therapeutic strategies for reproductive dysregulation in multiple vertebrate systems, including our own.

Hormones mediate physiological and behavioral changes in adults as they transition into reproduction. In this study, we characterize the circulating levels of five key hormones involved in reproduction in rock doves (Columba livia): corticosterone, progesterone, estradiol, testosterone, and prolactin using univariate and multivariate approaches. We show similar patterns as previous studies in the overall patterns in circulating levels of these hormones, i.e., testosterone (males) and estradiol (females) high during nest-building or egg-laying, prolactin increasing at mid-incubation and peaking at hatching (both sexes), and elevated corticosterone levels in later incubation and early nestling development. In our investigation of hormone co-variation, we find a strong correlation between prolactin and corticosterone across sampling stages and similarities in earlier (early to mid-incubation) compared to later (late incubation to nestling d9) sampling stages in males and females. Finally, we utilized experimental manipulations to simulate nest loss or altered caregiving lengths to test whether external cues, internal timing, or a combination of these factors contributed most to hormone variation. Following nest loss, we found that both males and females responded to the external cue. Males generally responded quickly following nest loss by increasing circulating testosterone, but this response was muted when nest loss occurred early in reproduction. Similar treatment type, e.g., removal of eggs, clustered similarly in hormone space. These results suggest internal drivers limited male response early in reproduction to nest loss. In contrast, circulating levels of these hormones in females either did not change or decreased following nest manipulation suggesting responsiveness to external drivers, but unlike males, this result suggests that reproductive processes were decreasing.

BackgroundThe process of alternative splicing provides a unique mechanism by which eukaryotes are able to produce numerous protein products from the same gene. Heightened variability in the proteome has been thought to potentiate increased behavioral complexity and response flexibility to environmental stimuli, thus contributing to more refined traits on which natural and sexual selection can act. While it has been long known that various forms of environmental stress can negatively affect sexual behavior and reproduction, we know little of how stress can affect the alternative splicing associated with these events, and less still about how splicing may differ between sexes. Using the model of the rock dove (Columba livia), our team previously uncovered sexual dimorphism in the basal and stress-responsive gene transcription of a biological system necessary for facilitating sexual behavior and reproduction, the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. In this study, we delve further into understanding the mechanistic underpinnings of how changes in the environment can affect reproduction by testing the alternative splicing response of the HPG axis to an external stressor in both sexes.ResultsThis study reveals dramatic baseline differences in HPG alternative splicing between males and females. However, after subjecting subjects to a restraint stress paradigm, we found a significant reduction in these differences between the sexes. In both stress and control treatments, we identified a higher incidence of splicing activity in the pituitary in both sexes as compared to other tissues. Of these splicing events, the core exon event is the most abundant form of splicing and more frequently occurs in the coding regions of the gene. Overall, we observed less splicing activity in the 3'UTR (untranslated region) end of transcripts than the 5'UTR or coding regions.ConclusionsOur results provide vital new insight into sex-specific aspects of the stress response on the HPG axis at an unprecedented proximate level. Males and females uniquely respond to stress, yet exhibit splicing patterns suggesting a convergent, optimal splicing landscape for stress response. This information has the potential to inform evolutionary theory as well as the development of highly-specific drug targets for stress-induced reproductive dysfunction.

Background and Aim: Avian metapneumovirus (aMPV) is a recently discovered respiratory virus in chickens. Avian metapneumovirus has been linked to respiratory syndromes, reproductive failure in affected chickens and turkeys, swollen head syndrome in chickens, and rhinotracheitis in turkeys. Wild birds are considered potential reservoirs of aMPV, particularly aMPV-C. However, little is known about the prevalence of aMPV in Saudi Arabia. Considering the relevance of backyard chickens in the transmission and sustainability of certain avian viral diseases, this study aimed to assess aMPV exposure in backyard chickens and wild birds circulating near selected locations. Materials and Methods: We collected 368 serum samples from unvaccinated backyard chickens in ten locations in Eastern Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, we collected 78 serum samples from species of free-ranging birds belonging to the Columbidae family, such as pigeons and doves, captured from the same areas. Using commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits, we tested the sera of domestic backyard chickens and wild birds for antibodies against aMPV. Results: Our results showed that 74/368 birds were positive for aMPV-related antibodies. Conversely, none of the tested wild birds seroconverted to aMPV. Conclusion: The antibody titers detected in the backyard chickens suggested recent exposure to aMPV. Considering these results, further large-scale serological and molecular studies are needed to evaluate the prevalence of aMPV in these birds and characterize the circulating strains of aMPV in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The study investigated the gut content and recorded morphometric and hematological parameters in the Eurasian collared dove (Streptopelia decaocto). Materials and Methods: 24 samples of healthy birds (12 from each sex) were collected from different wetlands in Punjab, Pakistan, from December 2022 until February 2023. Birds were captured live for blood samples, morphometric, and gut analyses. Results: The current study revealed that mensural measurements showed no significant differences in all parameters except tail length, which was significantly longer in males (14.59 ± 0.30) compared to females (12.88 ± 0.43). Hematological parameters were hemoglobin, 23.95 gm/dl; red blood cells, 3.97 × 106 /µl; white blood cells, 429.9.67 × 10³ /µl; hematocrit, 72.14%; mean corpuscular volume, 183.24 FL; mean corpuscular hemoglobin, 61.70 pg; mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, 32.37 pg; platelets, 7.01/µl; and red cell distribution width, 110.86/µl. The percentages of neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, and eosinophils were 71.33%, 23.03%, 3.30%, and 1.43%, respectively. The gut content of the Eurasian collared dove mainly consisted of rice, wheat, corn, and millet seeds. Some stony materials were also present. Conclusion: Our study concluded that male and female Eurasian collared doves are alike in biometrics (except tail length) and hematological profiles. Gut content and weight were also similar. Males were slightly larger than females. The gut content showed that the Eurasian collared dove mainly feeds on rice, wheat, corn, and millet seeds. In this study, hematological parameters were also studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The native breed of chicken is one of the most income-producing species in the poultry sector in the Egyptian governorate of Ismailia. Thus, the objective of the current study was to identify the collected parasites using a light microscope and estimate the prevalence and seasonal dynamics of the collected helminths using the newly introduced molecular biology methods. 120 chickens out of 170 recorded (70.59%) prevalence of helminth infestation during the period from September 2021 until the end of August 2022. Four nematodes with a prevalence of 44.12 %, which were Ascaridia galli, Heterakis gallinarum, Subulura brumpti, Trichostrongylus tenuis, and four cestodes with 26.47 %, which were Raillietina tetragona, R. echinobothrida, Hymenolepis carioca, and Choanotaenia infundibulum. Eimeria spp. infestation (11.18%), which were E. tenella, E. maxima, E. mitis, and E. brunetti. Ectoparasites (15.88%) were Echidnophaga gallinacea, Lipeurus caponis, Menopon gallinae, Columbicola columbae, and Dermanyssus gallinae. The identities of the certainly recovered nematode and cestode species were confirmed by the blast test using DNA sequence data. Thus, it is advised to use the molecular approach as the primary methodology for the accurate identification of helminths, particularly in closely related species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Penentuan jenis kelamin pada beberapa spesies burung cukup sulit dilakukan dikarenakan jantan dan betina memiliki ciri morfologi yang sama (monomorfik), salah satunya famili Columbidae. Teknik penentuan jenis kelamin burung secara molekuler yang populer adalah metode Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) dengan gen target Chromo Helicase DNA-binding (CHD), namun keberhasilan amplifikasi gen target pada PCR tersebut dipengaruhi salah satunya kesesuaian DNA template dengan primer yang digunakan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengevaluasi 5 jenis primer PCR P2/P8, 2550F/2718R, CHD1F/CHD1R, 1237L/1272H dan CHD1LF/CHD1LR untuk menentukan jenis kelamin famili Columbidae. Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan menguji 5 jenis primer tersebut di atas pada sampel DNA tiap pasang jantan dan betina dari burung merpati, balam jambi, punai, derkuku, dan perkutut. Hasil penelitian diketahui primer CHD1LF/CHD1LR menunjukkan hasil terbaik dan direkomendasikan untuk menentukan jenis kelamin famili Columbidae.

This study aimed to evaluate the spatial microdistribution and temporal microdistribution of the North African subspecies of the globally threatened Turtle Doves in Morocco. From the end of February to early September, we monitored the migration dates, counting arrival and departure dates, and breeding chronology, to clarify if the breeding season is divided into sub-breeding phases or not. Equally, the spatial distribution of nests following potential breeding phases was surveyed weekly in Beni Mellal province following a map of a selected orange orchard. Doves arrived in Beni Mellal in the third week of March and left in mid-October, according to the results. The first nests occurred in the second week of April, followed by the first eggs in the third week of April and the first chicks in the first week of May. PCA analysis showed that the nesting and laying stages were achieved principally during the last two weeks of April and the first three weeks of May, the hatching stage between the fourth week of May and the second week of July, and fledging between the fourth week of July and the first week of September. Further, the breeding season was divided into two phases: the first breeding phase, from the first week of April to the first week of June, and the second phase, between the second week of June and the second week of August. The DCA analysis and orchard-created map indicated that the first wave of breeders colonized the marginal trees located on the orchard sides, surrounded by foraging cereals and legumes, and the second breeding-phase nests were constructed in flocks next to the nests of the first breeding phase. According to this strategy, the first breeders prospect the orchard and select nesting trees near foraging resources, while the second breeders' wave colonizes trees near successfully used prospector sites. These findings are of great importance for comparative investigations and habitat-scale conservation management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The identification of migration dates and wintering zones for migratory birds are key elements for the understanding of the Afro‐Palearctic migration system. From 2015 to 2022, a large‐scale survey of Turtle Doves Streptopelia turtur, a vulnerable species, was established in Northwest Africa, including Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. We monitored migration dates and wintering individuals using the line‐transect method. We found that Turtle Doves arrived in the last week of March and left the North African region in mid‐October. Compared with Morocco, Doves arrived significantly earlier in Algeria and Tunisia. Moreover, Doves were discovered wintering on nine Northwest African sites, from October to February, where individuals feed in groups. We found that the occurrence probability of wintering Turtle Doves decreased significantly with increasing temperature and rainfall. Birds wintered most often close to wetlands since the overwintering probability decreased with the increasing distance from the recording area to the nearest water body. These are the first and only detailed findings on the migration phenology of the globally vulnerable Turtle Dove in north western Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molting is an important process in which old and worn feathers are exchanged for new ones. Plumage color is determined by pigments such as carotenes, melanin and by the ultrastructure of the feather. The importance of plumage coloration has been widely studied in different groups of birds, generally at a particular time of the year. However, plumage coloration is not static and few studies have addressed the change in plumage color over time and its relationship to reproductive tasks. The Eared Dove (Zenaida auriculata, Des Murs, 1847) has a melanistic coloration with sexual dichromatism in different body regions. The Eared Dove´s crown is the most exposed body region during the bowing display. Our objective was therefore to accurately determine the molting period of the crown feathers and study the seasonal variation in their coloration in females and males. Our findings indicate a molting period of 6 months (January to June). The new feathers are undergoing changes in their coloration from July to December. During that period we apply an avian vision model then enabled us to reveal a seasonal variation in the coloration of the crown feathers in both sexes, as given by a change in the chromatic distances. The highest values in the chromatic distances towards the reproductive period are given by a change in the UV-violet component of the spectrum, indicating changes in the microstructure of the feather. This change in crown coloration towards the breeding season could be linked to reproductive behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The European turtle dove (Streptopelia turtur) is a migratory species that overwinters in sub-Saharan Africa, migrating to Europe each spring to breed. Over the past four decades, turtle dove populations have declined by as much as 79%, making the species vulnerable to extinction. A major threat to the species is illegal killing (poaching) during its spring migration through the Mediterranean coasts of Europe. According to the international action plan for the conservation of the species, eradicating this threat is key for reversing the European turtle dove population declines by 2028. In this study, we used a network of acoustic sensors to record the gun hunting pressure at known hunting sites in the Ionian Islands, Greece—a known poaching hot-spot—over four spring migrations (2019–2022). Based on the number of gunshots recorded, we estimate that up to 57,095 turtle doves were killed or injured across the region in 2021. We anticipate that these findings will generate the resolve needed among responsible authorities to eradicate the spring migration in the Ionian Islands, and propose the roll out acoustic monitoring grids in additional poaching hot-spots along the migration routes of the turtle dove. The European turtle dove (Streptopelia turtur) is an Afro-Palearctic migrant whose populations have declined by 79% from 1980 to 2014. In 2018, the International Single Species Action Plan for the Turtle Dove (ISSAP) was developed with the goal of enabling, by 2028, an increase in turtle dove numbers along each of the three migration flyways (western, central, eastern). To achieve this, the illegal killing of turtle doves, a critical threat to the species, has to be eradicated. The Ionian Islands off the west coast of Greece lie on the eastern flyway and are considered a major turtle dove poaching hot-spot during spring migration. Quantifying wildlife crime, however, is challenging. In the absence of a reliable protocol for monitoring spring poaching levels, the agencies tasked with tackling the problem have no means of assessing the effectiveness of the anti-poaching measures and adapting them if required. Using passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) methods, we recorded gun hunting intensity at known turtle dove poaching sites during the 2019–2022 spring migrations (2–10 sites/season) with unprecedented spatial and temporal resolution. Based on published gunshot to killed/injured bird ratio for similar species (corroborated with discussions with local hunters) and an estimate of the proportion of hunting sites monitored by our PAM grid (using gunshot detection range estimates from control gunshots), we estimated that in 2021, up to 57,095 turtle doves were killed or injured across five Ionian Islands (Zakynthos, Paxi, Antipaxi, Othoni, and Mathraki). The 2022 estimate was almost half, but it is unclear as to whether the change is due to a decline in poachers or turtle doves. We propose ways of improving confidence in future estimates, and call for a temporary moratorium of autumn turtle dove hunting in Greece—as per ISSAP recommendation—until spring poaching is eradicated and the eastern flyway population shows signs of a full recovery. Finally, we hope our findings will pave the way for the development of PAM grids at turtle dove poaching hot-spots across all migration flyways, contributing to the global conservation of the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European turtle dove Streptopelia turtur (hereafter turtle dove), is a widespread species in the Palearctic. Due to a large and rapid decline in its abundance, it was classified as "vulnerable" on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List in 2015 and is now regarded as a globally threatened species. The objective of this study was to provide new information on the flyways of this turtle dove population by analyzing available ring recoveries and citizen science sightings data from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility. A new flyway (possibly stretching through the Black and Caspian Seas, Turkey, the Middle East, and Egypt toward the Eastern Sahel) is suggested for turtle doves breeding in Northern and Eastern Europe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On 13 January 2019, an individual Oriental turtle dove (Streptopelia orientalis Latham, 1790) was recorded. The species is shortly observed during tree-perching in an intensive agricultural landscape near Temerin Town, Vojvodina Province, Northern Serbia. The observed dove was a putative juvenile bird belonging to the subspecies meena. This finding represents the first observation of the Oriental turtle dove and the sixth native species from the order of Columbiformes recorded in Serbia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adopting a combination of qualitative textual analysis, human-based content analysis, and machine learning–based data mining, we propose a procedure to analyze user-generated content (UGC) on social media using Dove's "Campaign for Real Beauty" as a case for demonstration. We provide a guideline to explicate all six steps of the analysis procedure: topic identification through qualitative textual analysis, generation of labeled data through human coding, data preprocessing, evaluation of machine learning–based classifiers, topic classification of unlabeled data, and conducting research. The study has important methodological implications for advertising scholars and practitioners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Order of March 13, 2024, approved by the Minister of Economic Development, Sustainability and Environment, establishes the Management Plan for the European turtle dove (Streptopelia turtur) in the Autonomous Community of the Basque Country. The European turtle dove has been included in Annex II of the Birds Directive 2009/147/EC, which allows for its hunting within the framework of national legislation. However, a decrease in the breeding population of this species has been observed in the Basque Country, leading to its inclusion in the category of "Endangered". Factors that have contributed to this situation include the conversion of agricultural systems, the use of phytosanitary products, and excessive urbanization of countryside areas. The management plan aims to protect and conserve the European turtle dove in the region. [Extracted from the article]

Não se decepcionem os que ao compulsarem o presente trabalho, e os outros que por ventura Ihe venham a seguir a esteira, nada encontrem capaz de lembrar as grandes monografias que a intervalos vemos enriquecer a literatura ornitológica, abrindo às vezes perspectivas imprevistas ao estudo cientifico das Aves, ou trançando novos rumos ao progresso dos conhecimentos relacionados com o seu domínio. Verdade é que, inicialmente, prendeu-se ele a ideia, longo tempo acarinhada, de um tratado descritivo das Aves do Brasil, do qual o Catálogo por nos publicado anos atrás seria o arcabouço e alicerce. Mas, a vista da manifesta impossibilidade, criada pelas circunstancias, de levar avante a tentadora empresa, imaginamos imprimir aos nossos trabalhos orientação nova, apresentando em forma singela, e sem grandes compromissos com as praxes rigidamente seguidas pelos especialistas, o compendio da historia natural de alguns grupos, cingindo-nos a sua representação no solo pátrio e escolhendo-os entre os que a experiência. demonstra interessarem mais particularmente, por este ou aquele motivo, os amantes de nossa natureza e os poucos entre nos afeiçoados ao seu estudo. Neste sentido e este esboço da fauna brasileira de Columbidas a primeira tentativa; tentativa ainda assim algo frusta, porque entre os fatores a conspirar contra o seu melhor acabamento esteve sempre à hostilidade constante de estranhas preocupa?6es, e a escassez de tempo para uma aplicação continuada.

Interspecific hybridization occurs among birds, and closely related sister taxa tend to hybridize at a high rate. Genomic hybridization markers are useful for understanding the patterns and processes of hybridization and for conserving endangered species in captivity and the wild. In this study, we developed genomic hybridization markers for the F1 progeny of the sister taxa feral pigeons (Columba livia var. domestica) and endangered hill pigeons (Columba rupestris) (family Columbidae). Using whole-genome re-sequencing data, we performed genome-wide analysis for insertion/deletion (InDel) polymorphisms and validated using primers. We conducted polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and agarose gel electrophoresis to identify species-specific InDels. We produced eight F1 hybrids of hill and feral pigeons, and their samples were tested by re-performing analyses and sequencing using 11 species-specific InDel polymorphisms. Eight InDel markers simultaneously amplified two DNA fragments from all F1 hybrids, and there was no abnormality in the sequencing results. The application of genomic tools to detect hybrids can play a crucial role in the assessment of hybridization frequency in the wild. Moreover, systematic captive propagation efforts with hybrids can help control the population decline of hill pigeons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We made an analysis of the osteological remains of prey that had been captured by the peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) and was collected from eyries perched high in rocky cliffs of Slovakia. Birds dominated the 7,233 vertebrates identified (class Aves, with minimum of 98 species and 97.2% of the total). Bones from mammals (class Mammalia, 24 species, 2.5%) were rarely found, and sporadic remains from lower vertebrate species (classes Amphibia, Reptilia, Pisces, 0.3%) were also noted. The collected specimens were divided over three distinct periods. Before domestic pigeons became a major component in the juvenile peregrine falcon diet (Period A), wild pigeons and doves were the most common prey; specifically stock doves (Columba oenas) caught at lower elevations, and wood pigeons (Columba palumbus) in mountainous areas. The Eurasian woodcock (Scolopax rusticola) was a frequent prey. The diversity of peregrine falcon diet reached its maximum between the 1930s and the 1950s (Period B), with the domestic pigeon (Columba livia domestica) present in the diet at a similar abundance (16.1%) to wild pigeons and doves. The peregrine falcon population tailed off in the 1960s as pesticides became more commonly used in agriculture. A new population started expanding from Western Europe during the 1990s and has stabilised at around 150 breeding pairs in recent years. Since the turn of the millennium (Period C), domestic pigeons have become the dominant prey (51.1%) along with smaller songbirds such as hawfinches (Coccothraustes coccothraustes) and common starlings (Sturnus vulgaris), at 15.5% and 14.6% of total osteological remains collected, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]