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Despite the increased frequency with which wildfire smoke now blankets portions of world, the effects of smoke on wildlife, and birds in particular, are largely unknown. We used 2 decades of banding data from the San Francisco Bay Bird Observatory to investigate how fine particulate matter (PM2.5)—a major component and indicator of wildfire smoke—influenced capture rates and body condition of 21 passerine or near-passerine bird species. Across all study species, we found a negative effect of acute PM2.5 exposure and a positive effect of chronic PM2.5 exposure on avian capture rates. Together, these findings are indicative of decreased bird activity or local site removal during acute periods of wildfire smoke, but increased activity or site colonization under chronic smoke conditions. Importantly, we also observed a negative relationship between chronic PM2.5 exposure and body mass change in individuals with multiple captures per season. Our results indicate that wildfire smoke likely influences the health and behavior of birds, ultimately contributing to a shift in activity and body condition, with differential short-term versus long-term impacts. Although more research is needed on the mechanisms driving these observed changes in bird health and behavior, as well as validation of these relationships in more areas, our results suggest that wildfire smoke is a potentially frequent large-scale environmental stressor to birds that deserves increasing attention and recognition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

La nutrición animal permite el adecuado funcionamiento del organismo y es un pilar básico para el mantenimiento del equilibrio homeostático. El objetivo del estudio fue determinar el porcentaje de Clínicas Veterinarias de Medellín que realizan la valoración nutricional en sus consultas, los parámetros utilizados para realizarla e identificar las principales enfermedades de origen nutricional en caninos y felinos. 72 clínicas Veterinarias de Medellín fueron encuestadas. El 60% de las Clínicas Veterinarias no realizan la valoración nutricional y usan parámetros como condición corporal (40,7%), alimentación (44,7%) peso (11,8%) y estado del pelo (2,6%). Los índices usados para realizarla fueron ICM (5,1%), ICC (37,1%), IMC (5,1%). El 43,6% de los perros y gatos que llegan al mes por consulta son debidos a problemas nutricionales, siendo los más frecuentes gastroentéricos y dermatológicos. Es necesario implementar formatos para la evaluación nutricional con el fin de prevenir enfermedades y mejorar la salud de los animales.

Background: Beef ranks third in consumption in the Mexican market, where the diversity in supply sources and management systems used in production units is notable. This diversity is reflected in the health and welfare conditions of cattle. Objective: To evaluate health indicators of dual-purpose cattle in Michoacán, Mexico, aiming to promote quality in the meat industry. Methodology: Data were collected using the protocol adapted from UC Davis Cow-Calf Health and Handling. Bivariate and multivariate statistical techniques (principal component analysis and cluster analysis) were applied to analyze the data. Results: Six factors explain the cattle's current and past health conditions. From these, three groups of cattle were obtained with statistically significant differences in eight key indicators. Group 1 (G1) was characterized by good body condition and favorable past health status. Group 2 (G2) showed recent health problems, skin lesions, wildlife attacks, and parasitosis. Group 3 (G3) presented moderate conditions regarding past and recent health. Implications: This study provides a foundation for designing tools to enhance livestock living conditions by identifying and addressing individuals with poor health and welfare. These actions benefit livestock and directly improve the quality of meat derived from them. Conclusions: Group 2 (G2) was identified as having the greatest health problems, while G3 showed intermediate conditions and G1 grouped cattle with better health indicators. These findings underscore the importance of implementing improved animal health and welfare practices in production units to enhance the quality of meat produced.

Background: Milk price depends on the concentration of milk components, which are influenced by several factors. Objective: To determine the effect of cow intrinsic variables on the physicochemical composition of raw milk in a dualpurpose production system. Methods: Twenty-five 5/8 Holstein-Friesian × 3/8 Zebu (5/8H3/8Z) lactating cows aged 5-10 years and 1-6 births were selected. Body condition score (BCS) and milk production were recorded. Milk samples were taken throughout lactation from each cow at mid-milking every eight days. Milk composition analysis was carried out using an automatic Lacticheck equipment. Results: Average daily milk production per cow was 4.10 L, with 1.03 g/cm3 density, 32.70 g/L fat, 34.50 g/L protein, 50.20 g/L lactose, 91.30 g/L non-fat solids, and 127.00 g/L total solids. The BCS influenced milk composition (p<0.01). Cows with higher BCS (>3.25) showed greater density, protein and lactose, while BCS between 2.00 to 2.50 positively affected fat content (39.20 g/L). Elder cows had increased milk production. In early lactation, milk production was the highest with less fat percentage. Conclusion: Although cow production per day is low, milk composition from 5/8H3/8Z cows complies with the standards established in the Mexican norm and is considered to be of good quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Cientifica de la Facultade de Veterinaria is the property of Universidad del Zulia, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias 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.)

Canine obesity, a prevalent global health concern, is also on the rise in Colombia. However, there is limited data available on this issue. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of overweight and obesity among dogs in Northern Bogotá, Colombia, and to identify key risk factors associated with this condition. A sample of 194 dogs was used. They were weighed, their body condition was evaluated, and their owners were surveyed about the habits of the dog. Results revealed 23.2% of dogs were overweight and 1.6% were obese. Through a logistic regression model, it was determined that the variables significantly related to this disease were daily physical activity and the condition of being neutered or spayed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Biológico Agropecuaria Tuxpan is the property of Revista Biologico Agropecuaria Tuxpan 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.)

La condición corporal es un parámetro muy utilizado para conocer las reservas de los animales, por lo que su valor permite implantar correcciones de manejo para mejorar la eficiencia reproductiva y productiva de la explotación. Su medición puede llevarse a cabo de manera subjetiva o bien utilizando otros métodos más exactos. El objetivo de este estudio fue la determinación de la relación de la condición corporal con el espesor de la grasa dorsal medido con el Renco Lean–Meater®, y además analizar la relación entre dicha condición corporal con la calidad del calostro y el peso vivo al nacimiento de los corderos. Para ello se utilizaron 37 ovejas adultas con partos dobles estabuladas en una explotación. A cada una de ellas se le realizó una valoración de la condición corporal de manera subjetiva, una medición de la grasa dorsal con el Renco Lean–Meater® y se tomó una muestra del calostro tras el parto. La calidad de este último se determinó con un refractómetro grados Brix y a los corderos se les pesó con una balanza portátil. Tras el estudio se concluyó que el Renco–Lean Meater® es un buen sistema para la medición de la grasa dorsal en ovino. Además, la condición corporal afectó al peso vivo de los corderos al nacimiento, pero no a la calidad del calostro.

For temperate-zone mammals, seasonal changes in weather and food availability often govern energy allocation. In addition, energy allocation strategies usually differ between males and females. Bats are an interesting group in which to evaluate energetic trade-offs as they are highly mobile and lead energetically demanding lives in habitats across a variety of seasonally variable climates. We evaluated year-round changes in body mass and fuel load for three species of bats in northern California: Silver-haired Bat (Lasionycteris noctivagans), California Myotis (Myotis californicus), and Yuma Myotis (Myotis yumanensis). Silver-haired bats are considered migratory species with females likely migrating farther than males. The two species of myotis are considered residents. Body mass of all species peaked in late autumn and was at a minimum during spring. We calculated a fuel load index to normalize size difference between species and sexes. We used sex- and season-specific multiple linear regression models to evaluate rates of change in seasonal fuel loading. Rates of change in fuel load did not differ among species or sexes except for male silver-haired bats that increased fuel loads rapidly during summer. Interspecific comparisons provided valuable insights into the energy allocation and overwintering strategies of these species and are an important initial step toward understanding their ecology over the full annual cycle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of frame score (EC) in Brahman heifers on follicular development and body growth at puberty was evaluated. Ten prepubertal heifers were grouped according to their EC, categorized as small and large. Follicular ovarian development, ovulation, and corpus luteum formation were monitored through ultrasound. Measurements of body growth characteristics were taken every 14 days. Correlation and variance analyses were conducted using SAS (9.6) correlation and GLM procedures. The EC of large heifers was 10% higher than that of small heifers (P<0.0001). EC was significant for the total number of follicles (NTF) at puberty; small heifers had an average of 15.65 follicles versus 12.69 follicles in large heifers at puberty (P<0.0001). Furthermore, a negative correlation (P<0.0001) was observed between days to puberty and the weight of the animals and EC (-0.33 and -0.35, respectively). EC in Brahman heifers only had an effect on NTF; however, animals in each group maintained a similar EC throughout the study and were different between groups at puberty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monogamy was considered to be the most common mating system in birds. However, molecular techniques revealed numerous cases of extra-pair fertilisations (EPFs) in most bird species as well as multiple partners during breeding season. In this study, we examined the population of the Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis breeding along the Danube River system in Slovakia during three consecutive breeding seasons (2016-2018). We analysed 618 individuals – 70 adults and 548 nestlings from 87 broods. Overall, six nestlings (1.09%) from three different broods (3.45%) were fathered by other than the pair male. None of the nestlings had a mother other than the pair female. Besides that, we detected two simultaneously polygamous males (5.13%). In seven cases (9.72%) we revealed mate change between different broods: female change in three cases (4.17%) and male change in four cases (5.55%). The occurrence of extra-pair nestlings as well as polygamy was not associated with the synchronicity of breeding attempts at the beginning of the season, while the type of mating strategy seems to be associated with nest density. At the same time, male body condition was unrelated to the type of mating strategy in which he was engaged. Conversely, polygamous males had higher genetic diversity (observed heterozygosity) than monogamous ones. No difference in genetic diversity was found between monogamous and polygamous females. There was no difference in breeding success before and after the change of partner. In addition, polygamous individuals did not have more young than monogamous birds, suggesting that having more than one partner does not ensure greater breeding productivity. This is probably why polygamy remains a minority strategy in the Common Kingfisher.—Cepková, M., Melišková, M. & Rubáčová, L. (2023). Low extra-pair paternity and polygamy in the Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis. Ardeola, 70: 41-58. La monogamia es considerada el sistema de apareamiento común en las aves. Sin embargo, análisis moleculares han revelado que, en la mayoría de las aves, pueden ocurrir casos de emparejamientos extrapareja, así como de intercambios de parejas durante o entre las temporadas de reproducción. En este estudio nos centramos en una población de martín pescador común localizada en el río Danubio (Eslovaquia) durante tres temporadas consecutivas de reproducción (2016-2018), analizando un total de 648 individuos correspondientes a 71 adultos y 577 polluelos de 92 nidadas. Los análisis mostraron que seis pollos (1,04%) de tres crías diferentes (3,26%) tenían un padre diferente, aunque ninguno de ellos tuvo una madre distinta. Además, detectamos dos machos polígamos simultáneamente (5,13%). Mientras que un macho se apareó con dos hembras, otro tuvo cuatro parejas. En siete casos (9,6%) encontramos evidencias de intercambio de pareja entre distintas crías, de las que en tres ocasiones (4,11%) se intercambiaron hembras y cuatro veces (5,48%) machos. En general, estos resultados indican que el martín pescador común es una especie social, genéticamente monógama, con una rara ocurrencia de pollos procedentes de emparejamientos extrapareja y poligamia, y en ningún caso procedentes de parasitismo de nido intraespecífico. Este sistema de emparejamiento viene en parte apoyado por el hecho de que, en esta especie, el cuidado parental es llevado a cabo tanto por parte de la hembra como del macho durante un período de reproducción generalmente extenso.—Cepková, M., Melišková, M. y Rubáčová, L. (2023). Baja paternidad extrapareja y poligamia en el martín pescador común Alcedo atthis. Ardeola, 70: 41-58. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Cientifica de la Facultade de Veterinaria is the property of Universidad del Zulia, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias 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.)

Copyright of Revista Cientifica de la Facultade de Veterinaria is the property of Universidad del Zulia, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias 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.)

Copyright of Acta Universitaria is the property of Universidad de Guanajuato/Acta Universitaria 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.)

Con el objetivo de evaluar el efecto de la utilización de la gonadotrofina coriónica equina (eCG) en un protocolo de inseminación artificial a tiempo fijo (IATF) a base de progesterona (P4) y la condición corporal (CC), sobre la fertilidad de vacas mantenidas bajo un sistema de producción tradicional (SPT); se desarrolló una investigación, empleando un diseño completo al azar, con arreglo factorial 2×2, siendo los factores la CC (3,00 ≤ CC ≤ 2,75) y la administración de 400 Unidades Internacionales (UI) de eCG, formando cuatro tratamientos (T) con 50 animales cada uno. T1 vacas sincronizadas con CC ≤ 2,75 y sin aplicación de eCG; T2 vacas sincronizadas con CC ≤ 2,75 y con aplicación de eCG; T3 vacas sincronizadas con CC ≥ 3,00 y sin aplicación de eCG; T4 vacas sincronizadas con CC ≥ 3,00 y con aplicación de eCG. El protocolo base fue: Día cero, aplicación del dispositivo intravaginal (DIV) de progesterona, más 2 miligramos (mg) de benzoato de estradiol (BE), el día 7, retiro del DIV más 500 microgramos (µcg) de cloprostenol sódico, día 8, 1 mg de BE, Día 9 la IATF, 56 horas de haber retirado el DIV. La eCG se administró al momento de retirar el DIV. Los valores de fertilidad fueron para el T1: 22,0 %; T2: 44,0 %; T3: 46,0 % y T4: 48,0 %, con diferencias significativas (P

El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar la influencia de características de bovinos [condición corporal (CC), lesiones prefaenado (LP), estado de preñez (EP) y estado emocional aparente (EEA)], faenados en un centro de beneficio convencional, sobre la frecuencia de eventos aversivos al bienestar animal y calidad cárnica. Se registró el faenado de 99 bovinos, cuantificando los golpes, torceduras de cola, gritos del operario, puntillazos, tiempos de cada etapa, resbalones, caídas, vocalizaciones e intentos de incorporación. Se determinó pH0h, pH1h, pH24h y goteo en el músculo Longissimus dorsi et lumborum. Los datos se analizaron bajo un Diseño Completo al Azar (DCA). Se halló una correlación inversa entre CC y LP (P3,25. Bajo las condiciones del estudio, no se encontraron diferencias en el pH y PG% según CC, LP ni EP; sin embargo, bovinos con EEA tranquilo tuvieron menor PG% que EE nervioso (P

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of the dose of estradiol cypionate (ECP; 0.5 vs 1.0 mg) administered at the removal of the intravaginal progesterone releasing device (IVD) on estrus expression (EE) and pregnancy proportion (PP) in suckled Angus cows submitted to fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI). Also, the role of the body condition score (BCS) as an effect modifier of the dose of CPE was explored. Four replicates of the experiment were carried out, using a total of 456 multiparous Angus cows, with a BCS of 4 and 5 (1 to 9 scale) and a postpartum interval of 42 to 113 days. On day 0, IVDs with 0.6 g of progesterone was inserted and 2 mg of estradiol benzoate were injected. On day 7, IVDs were removed, 150 µg of D+ cloprostenol and 400 IU of equine chorionic gonadotropin were administered, and tail-paint was applied to all the cows. At that moment animals were randomized to receive 0.5 or 1.0 mg of ECP. After 48 h of DIV removal, the amount of tail-paint rubbed-off was assessed (estrus detection) and the FTAI was performed. Pregnancy diagnosis was made on days 38-40 after FTAI, by ultrasonography. The application of 1.0 mg of ECP was associated with higher EE [87.2% (197/226) vs. 78.3% (180/230), P = 0.002], regardless of the BCS. However, the BCS conditioned the effect of the ECP dose on the PP (P = 0.048). It is concluded that the administration of 1.0 mg of ECP at DIV removal is associated with a greater EE at FTAI. Also, the effect of the dose of ECP on PP at FTAI would be conditioned by the BCS. In cows with BCS 5 a greater reproductive response is obtained when 1.0 mg of ECP is administered, while in cows with BCS 4 there are no differences between the evaluated ECP doses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study on the animal welfare of dairy cattle in Loma Bonita, Oaxaca, Mexico. 23 dairy production units were evaluated, representing 57% of the bovine farms that supply the collection center of the Mexican Food Safety Organization. The results showed that the welfare of the cattle in the evaluated units ranges from good to acceptable, although problems were identified regarding the waiting time of the cattle before being milked and the width of the exit aisle of the milking parlor. It is recommended to improve the design and hygiene of the facilities to guarantee the welfare of the animals. [Extracted from the article]

Objetivo. Estimar el bienestar animal del ganado bovino, mediante criterios de acondicionamiento ambiental en unidades de producción (UP) lechera de Loma Bonita, México. Materiales y métodos. La muestra fue de 23UP, empleándose el muestreo por conveniencia. Las UP evaluadas representan el 57% del universo de explotaciones bovinas que abastecen al centro de acopio del organismo de Seguridad Alimentaria Mexicana (SEGALMEX). Para obtener los datos se aplicaron entrevistas, toma de muestras en campo. Se evaluaron 14 indicadores que cubrieron tres criterios ambientales del bienestar animal: 1) Ausencia prolongada de hambre; 2) Ausencia prolongada de sed y 3) Emplazamiento, construcción y equipamiento. Esto permitió clasificar el bienestar animal de cada UP en cuatro categorías: Excelente, Buena, Aceptable y No aceptable. Para estimar el bienestar del ganado bovino, se siguieron tres pasos: 1) Evaluación de los criterios relacionados con el acondicionamiento ambiental; 2) Estandarización de los valores; y 3) Integración de valores por criterio. Resultados. El bienestar del ganado bovino de las UP evaluadas fueron Excelente (17%); Bueno (43%); Aceptable (34%) y No aceptable (6%). Conclusiones. El bienestar animal en las UP de Loma Bonita, Oaxaca va de bueno a aceptable. De los 14 indicadores de bienestar analizados, 11 de ellos presentan valores superiores al 20%, por lo que se consideran como críticos. Destaca el 95% de las UP que presentan problemas en cuanto al tiempo de espera del ganado antes de ser ordeñado y el 60% que no cuenta con el ancho apropiado del pasillo de salida de la sala de ordeño.

Objetivo. Evaluar el efecto del amamantamiento restringido (AR) sobre parámetros de crecimiento (peso ajustado (PA) y ganancia de peso diaria (GPD), condición corporal (CC) y puntaje de FAMACHA® (FA) durante la lactancia y pos-destete en ovejas de pelo colombiano (OPC). Materiales y métodos. 76 OPC con crías, fueron asignados a uno de dos tratamientos. Tratamiento 1 (T1), corderos con amamantamiento continuo (AC): 24 horas con la madre (n= 38). Tratamiento 2 (T2), amamantamiento restringido (AR), 10 horas (n=38). Se realizaron mediciones cada 30 días desde el nacimiento hasta los 210 días con destete a los 90 días. Fue evaluado el PA, la GPD, la CC y el FA, analizándose los datos con un modelo lineal de efectos fijos y medidas repetidas y prueba de Tukey–Kramer. Resultados. Los PA antes de los 60 días no variaron significativamente entre T1 y T2. Luego del destete y hasta el final del experimento, los PA fueron significativamente (p

Copyright of ESPOCH Congresses: The Ecuadorian Journal of S.T.E.A.M. is the property of Knowledge E DMCC 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.)

Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and severe, leading to an increase in direct, adverse thermoregulatory impacts on wildlife. Here, we document an unprecedented, single-day, heat-related mortality event of Magellanic Penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus) at Punta Tombo, Chubut Province, Argentina, one of the largest breeding colonies for this species. We found 264 dead adults and 90 dead chicks in the breeding colony and along the beaches after recording the highest temperature in the shade (44°C on January 19, 2019) since the study started in December 1982. We found dead adults and chicks in postures used to release heat (i.e. lying prone with flippers and feet extended away from the body and/or bills open). We found no evidence for other causes of mortality other than heat (e.g., disease, toxic algae, starvation). Adults potentially died of dehydration, because dead adults were in significantly worse body condition than adults that survived. Dead adults had either empty stomachs or <50 g of food, and 27% of the dead adults died traveling between the nesting area and the water. More males died than females (83% male and 17% female; n = 94). In one section of the colony, ~5% of 1,153 adults died in the heat. Mortality rates of adults were unevenly distributed across the colony, suggesting that the presence of microclimates or easier beach access was an important factor to penguin survival. The body condition indices of dead and live chicks were similar and chicks that died from heat had food in their stomachs (mean = 405 ± 128 g; n = 14), suggesting that food likely inhibited their ability to thermoregulate. Documenting the effects of extreme weather events on populations is crucial to predicting how they will respond to climate change because these events, although rare, are expected to become more frequent and could have severe impacts on populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of body condition score (BCS) at lambing over the resumption of ovarian and estrous postpartum activity in lactating Pelibuey ewes. Twenty ewes were assigned to two groups, according to the BCS at lambing: Low BCS (LBC, n = 10) and High BCS (HBC, n = 10). Ovarian and estrous activities were daily monitored from day 3 postpartum until the first estrous or 90 days postpartum. Continuous variables were analyzed using Student´s t test and binary responses with the exact Fisher test. No significant effect of BCS at lambing on ewes in estrous, lambing to first estrous interval, estrous length, and estrous cycle length, preovulatory follicles at estrous, the maximum follicular diameter at estrous day or ovulation rate was observed. However, the lambing to first preovulatory follicle interval was shorter in the HBC group (HBC = 6.2 ± 2.6 vs LBC = 10.8 ± 4.5 d; P < 0.05). The lambing to first corpus luteum intervals were similar between groups, but without estrous expression. The function of the first corpus luteum postpartum was similar in both groups. BCS at lambing did not affect the resumption of ovarian and estrous activity postpartum in lactating Pelibuey ewes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For effective sheep production, males and females in good nutritional status, healthy and functional, are needed. The nutritional status can be known through the body condition score, whose evaluation allows corrections in management and increase the productive and reproductive efficiency of sheep according to their physiological status. The objective of this study was to evaluate the body conditioning sheep in relation to their physiological state trough semi-technical exploration, and on this basis make a diagnosis of reliable productive and reproductive situation. The study was carried out in the northern part of La Pampa province, in 8 mixed farms in spring-summer. A disparity of corporal sate was observed in sheep’s with the same physiological state in a sheep flock which means unfit animals. There is a tendency of the productive cycle to lean towards inefficiency that requires management interventions as to synchronize its stages with an optimal animal’s state and achieve maximum development.

Background: Variables associated with body tissue mobilization place dairy cows at greater risk of reproductive failure. Objective: To investigate the association between blood metabolites and body condition score (BCS) at the beginning of lactation and the reproductive efficiency and milk yield of Holstein cows in a hot environment. Methods: In total, 165 Holstein cows were selected for the study from which blood samples were taken to determine the concentration of various blood metabolites and their association with the reproductive efficiency and milk yield. Results: Cows with serum β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) ≤0.8 mmol/L one week postpartum were 3.3 times more likely to become pregnant at first service, and 2.2 times more likely to become pregnant before 80 d postpartum than cows with higher serum BHBA levels. The odds (OR 2.7; 95% CI 1.3–5.4; p<0.01) of a cow getting pregnant at first service were higher in cows with serum creatinine levels higher than 2.0 mg/dL one week postpartum than cows with lower blood levels of this metabolite. The BCS at 30 and 60 d postpartum that predicted pregnancy at first service and pregnancy to all services was 3.0. Blood urea nitrogen >15 mg/dL, creatinine <1.8 mg/dL, total protein ≤5.0 mg/dL one week postpartum, and >0.40 units of BCS loss during the first 30 d postpartum were critical threshold that predicted the likelihood of 305-d milk yield higher than 10,500 kg. Conclusions: Serum BHBA and creatinine one wk after calving as well as BCS 30 and 60 d post-calving provided reasonably accurate cut-off screening values to discriminate cows with better reproductive performance and higher 305-d milk yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To evaluate the reproductive response, metabolic state and body changes in Dorper and Katahdin ewes supplemented with two energy levels prior to insemination. Materials and methods. The animals used in this experiment were 14 Katahdin and 13 Dorper ewes distributed in two treatments, in which estrus had been synchronized. Fourteen days prior to synchronization of estrus, the ewes were distributed in two treatments according to the energy level of the diet, T1:2.0 and T2:2.5 Mcal kg-1 of ME. Feeding consisted of 14 days of adaptation and 14 of feeding with integral diet. At the start and finish of each study, measurements were made of dorsal fat thickness, area of the rib-eye, body weight and glucose and insulin concentrations. The principal reproductive parameters were measured, such as response to estrus, percentage of gestation and prolificity. Analyses of variance were made along with ji-squared tests to determine the effect of the energy level and genotype. Results. The genotype and energy level did not affect any of the variables measured, although it was found that with both energy levels there was an increase in glucose concentrations, as well as an increase in weight, body fat and area of the rib-eye. Conclusions. Because there was no difference in the reproductive parameters and body changes with feeding in the two energy levels, it is preferable to use the feed with 2.0 Mcal kg-1 of ME, given that it reduces costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Con el objetivo de evaluar una estrategia de control parasitario sobre la base de tratamientos antiparasitarios selectivos en un rebaño de ovejas Pelibuey durante la campaña de cubriciones y la gestación, se empleó una estrategia de control parasitario en 45 ovejas sobre la base de tratamientos selectivos por la coloración de la mucosa ocular (CMO), la condición corporal (CC) y el conteo fecal de huevos (CFH). Se realizó la revisión de los animales entre abril y octubre de 2017, y se tomó la decisión de tratarlos o no en función de los indicadores antes mencionados. Se observó bajas cargas parasitarias en los animales y buen desempeño productivo de las reproductoras, con pesos al nacer de las crías de 3,15 y 2,46 kg (p < 0,05), para partos simples y dobles, respectivamente, durante todo el periodo experimental. El CFH fue el mejor indicador en la identificación de animales infestados. Se concluye que el tratamiento antiparasitario selectivo de los animales, en lugar de todo el rebaño, permitió reducir de manera significativa la carga parasitaria sobre todo durante el periodo próximo al parto, así como propició una disminución del uso de productos antihelmínticos.

Objetivo: Caracterizar reproductivamente vacas autóctonas de desecho en tres rebaños de la provincia de Huambo, Angola. Métodos: Se caracterizaron reproductivamente vacas autóctonas de desecho en tres rebaños en la provincia del Huambo, Angola. En junio se evaluaron 331 vacas; de ellas 54 de desecho, distribuidas como sigue: rebaño 1 (24), 2 (17) y 3 (13). Se determinó la edad, condición corporal (CC), partos totales (PT) e intervalo parto-parto (IPP). Se realizó la estadística descriptiva general de estas variables; el factor en estudio fue el rebaño. La edad se distribuyó normalmente y se compararon los rebaños mediante un ANOVA y Tukey para la comparación múltiple de medias, el resto de las variables (CC, PT y IPP) se evaluaron por Kruskal Wallis y el estadístico U de Mann-Whitney. Resultados La media general para la edad fue de 8,15 ± 1,80 años y las medianas para CC, PT e IPP fueron: 2,5; 3,0 y 730,0, respectivamente. De modo general, los resultados estuvieron alejados de los valores óptimos para la reproducción. El rebaño influyó significativamente sobre CC (P < 0,05), PT (P < 0,01) y el IPP (P < 0,01) Conclusiones. Se concluyó que, independientemente del efecto del rebaño, existe un bajo aprovechamiento del potencial reproductivo debido a la temprana edad al desecho con insuficiente cantidad de PT e IPP excesivamente prolongados, además de problemas nutricionales expresados en la baja CC.

Objetivo. Evaluar la respuesta reproductiva, estado metabólico y cambios corporales en ovejas Dorper y Katahdin suplementadas con dos niveles de energía previo al empadre. Materiales y métodos. Se utilizaron 14 hembras Katahdin y 13 Dorper distribuidas en 2 tratamientos a las cuales se les sincronizó el celo. Catorce días previo a la sincronización de estros, las ovejas se distribuyeron en 2 tratamientos de acuerdo con el nivel de energía en la dieta, T1:2.0 y T2:2.5 Mcal kg-1 de EM. La alimentación abarcó 14 días de adaptación y 14 de alimentación con dieta integral. Al inicio y al final del estudio se midió el espesor de grasa dorsal, área del ojo de la costilla, peso corporal y concentraciones de glucosa e insulina. Se midieron los principales parámetros reproductivos como respuesta a estro, porcentaje de gestación y prolificidad. Se realizaron análisis de varianza y pruebas de ji cuadrada para determinar el efecto del nivel de energía y el genotipo. Resultados. El genotipo y el nivel de energía no afectaron ninguna de las variables medidas, aunque se encontró que con ambos niveles de energía existió un incremento en las concentraciones de glucosa, así como una ganancia en peso, grasa corporal y área del ojo de la costilla. Conclusiones. Debido a que no existió diferencia en los parámetros reproductivos y cambios corporales en ovejas al alimentarlas con los dos niveles de energía, es mejor la alimentación con 2.0 Mcal kg-1 de EM, ya que reduce costos de alimentación.

Reduced rainfall in tropical regions decreases the availability of food resources for overwintering songbirds, with negative impacts on their body condition. Increasingly dry conditions at tropical wintering sites as a result of climate change may impact the ability of temperate-breeding songbirds to prepare for and execute their spring migration. We studied the carryover effects of natural climatic fluctuations created by the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) in tropical overwintering areas on 7 long-distance migratory songbirds at a Canadian stopover site. We used the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index as a proxy for tropical habitat productivity and resource availability and a 34-year bird banding dataset from Long Point, Ontario, Canada to assess migration timing and stopover body condition. To increase our ability to detect potential carry-over effects, we employed a novel approach of using recent migratory connectivity studies to restrict the wintering ranges to areas most likely used by individuals passing through southern Ontario. Using linear models, we found that overwinter habitat productivity was significantly negatively influenced by dry ENSO events in the overwintering ranges in 3 of 7 species, with a fourth near-significant. Subregional differences in the effect of ENSO on precipitation patterns may explain why we did not detect a consistent effect of ENSO on overwinter habitat productivity for all species. Despite restricting the wintering range and using a robust dataset for species with diverse life histories, we detected only weak and often conflicting evidence of population-level carry-over effects from dry ENSO events and overwinter habitat productivity. Negative carry-over effects may be strongest and most evident during the earlier stages of migration because birds may be able to compensate to some extent for poor departure condition and late departure while en route. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rainfall regime, the amount and timing of annual precipitation, can influence the breeding phenology, individual fitness, and population dynamics of tropical birds. In Neotropical regions with rainfall seasonality (i.e. wet and dry seasons), the warm phase of the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) can exacerbate seasonal drought and negatively impact avian survival and reproduction. However, the mechanisms underlying associations between seasonal drought conditions and avian demography are largely unexplored. One hypothesis is that nutritional condition mediates demographic responses to seasonal drought: individuals in poor condition may be less capable of balancing their energy budgets and consequently suffer reduced survival, lower reproductive output, or both. We estimated nutritional condition (i.e. scaled mass index, percent hematocrit, plasma lipid metabolites) as a proxy of energy balance in understory forest birds with contrasting population-level responses to dry season length. This study took place across two dry seasons of differing intensity in central Panama: an El Niño dry season (2016, severe drought) and a more typical dry season (2017). Scaled mass index remained relatively constant throughout both dry seasons and across years for 5 common focal species and among 4 foraging guilds (22 additional species, 27 species total). Three of 5 focal species did exhibit reduced nutritional condition (i.e. lower hematocrit and/or higher β-hydroxybutyrate) during the El Niño dry season but not during the more typical dry season. However, foraging guilds did not show consistent nutritional responses to seasonal drought and we found little evidence of the reduced nutritional condition at the guild level, suggesting that many Neotropical forest bird species are capable of tolerating seasonal drought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual habitat segregation during the wintering period is a widespread phenomenon and has important implications for the ecology and conservation of migratory birds. We studied Black-and-white Warblers (Mniotilta varia) wintering in second-growth scrub and old-growth mangrove forest in Jamaica to quantify sexual habitat segregation and explore whether patterns of habitat occupation have consequences on physical condition. We used this information along with a body size analysis and simulated territorial intrusions to assess whether behavioral dominance or habitat specialization was responsible for habitat segregation. Based on standardized capture data, we found that females were more abundant than males in both scrub and mangrove forests. Foraging observations, however, suggested vertical segregation within each habitat, with females foraging primarily near the ground and males in the mid-canopy and canopy, indicating that our sex ratio estimates may be biased. Using 2 measures of body condition, we show that males were in better body condition than females, regardless of habitat. We found that males were on average slightly larger than females, and home range analysis and simulated territorial intrusions indicated that males were more territorial than females. We argue that the observed vertical sexual habitat segregation is likely caused by behavioral dominance rather than habitat specialization. Winter body condition is known to carry over to affect migration timing, reproductive success, and annual survival in other songbirds, and therefore sexual habitat segregation may have important implications for year-round population dynamics in Black-and-white Warblers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objetivo. Determinar la influencia de la condición corporal al parto (CCP) en el reinicio de la actividad ovárica (RAO) posparto de la vaca Holstein en la región andina de Ecuador. Materiales y métodos. Se trabajaron 30 vacas. Se determinaron el momento de aparición del folículo dominante (FD), de ovulación y de actividad luteal; la duración del ciclo estral, el volumen del cuerpo lúteo (CL) y las concentraciones de progesterona (P4) en suero sangíneo. Los estadígrafos descriptivos de las variables del RAO y sus indicadores se compararon según la CCP mediante una prueba de t-Student para muestras independientes. Se evaluó la asociación entre la CCP y el RAO posparto mediante un estudio caso control. Resultados. La duración del ciclo estral fue 23.10 días, el 46.67% de las vacas tuvo ciclos normales y el 53.33% ciclos anormales. El FD, la ovulación y la actividad luteal ocurrieron a los 16.63, 27.76 y 41.38 días posparto, respectivamente; antes (p

Un mal manejo sanitario, reproductivo y multifuncional en la ganadería lechera causa una mayor incidencia de problemas metabólicos como la cetosis clínica y subclínica, que son considerados como críticos durante el periodo de transición. La cetosis subclínica representa un desafío para las personas que la enfrentan en sus vacas, porque está subdiagnosticada y genera gran impacto económico relacionado con trastornos de salud que reflejan pérdidas en eficiencia reproductiva, producción lechera y bienestar animal. El objetivo del estudio consistió en analizar la producción lechera, la condición corporal y número de partos como factores de riesgo para la presencia de cetosis subclínica en vacas lecheras y determinar su asociación en una explotación de leche. Mediante criterios de inclusión y exclusión, se seleccionó registros con un muestreo de orina de 29 vacas en el preparto, parto, y 15, 30, 60 y 90 días post parto. Esta información se analizó con la prueba estadística Chi cuadrado de Pearson cuyos resultados muestran que la presencia de cetosis subclínica depende de la producción lechera a los 60 días post parto (p < 0,05) y a los 90 días post parto (p < 0,05). El valor de 0,57 se obtuvo para la prueba V de Cramer a los 60 días post parto y un valor de 0,61 a los 90 días post parto, demostrando un 57% - 61% de asociación entre la producción lechera y la cetosis subclínica, considerándola como factor de riesgo. Se concluyó que la producción lechera tiene relación directa con la enfermedad, al mismo tiempo que se categorizó a las variables condición corporal y número de partos como independientes y sin asociación entre sí.

Eastern Purple Martins (Progne subis subis) have an unusually close relationship with humans, as they nest exclusively in man-made nest boxes. Current conservation policy directly promotes further interaction with this species by advocating regular replacement of nest materials during the nestling phase to reduce ectoparasite load and increase nestling fitness. We conducted the first test of the efficacy of this recommendation and found that it was partially effective in reducing parasite abundance, but had no effect on nestling fledging success, body mass, leukocyte count, or triglyceride or uric acid concentration. We found a small but significant increase in nestling hematocrit associated with nest material replacement, implying that parasites may induce nestling anemia. Contrary to our expectations, we also found elevated heterophil/lymphocyte ratios in nestlings with replacements, possibly indicating elevated physiological stress associated with nest replacements. Based on our results, we do not recommend nest material replacements to combat routine parasite infestations. LAY SUMMARY Purple Martins are believed to have a high abundance of blood-feeding parasites (fleas, mites, and blowfly larvae) in their nests. A current conservation policy recommends that nest box managers regularly remove and replace nest materials during the nestling phase to reduce parasite abundance. We tested the efficacy of this policy. Nest replacements reduced flea and blowfly larvae abundance, but mite abundance rebounded quickly. There was no difference in fledging rate, body mass, white blood cell count, or triglyceride or uric acid levels for nestlings with or without nest replacements. Nestlings with nest replacements were less anemic and had a higher ratio of heterophils to lymphocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To determine the influence of corporal composition at delivery (CCD) on the ovarian postpartum restart (OPR) of the Holstein cow in the Andes Region in Ecuador. Materials and methods. 30 cows were produced. All of the following moments were determined: the appearing of the dominant follicle (DF), the ovulation and luteal activity; the duration of the estrous cycle, the volume of the luteum body (LC) and the progesterone concentrations (P4) on blood serum. Descriptive statisticians of the OPR variables and its indicators were compared according to the BC, by means of a t-Student test for independent samples. The relationship between the BC and the postpartum OPR through a case-control case was assessed. Results. The duration of the oestrous cycle was 23.10 days, 46.67% of the cows had regular cycles and 53.33% were abnormal cycles. The DF, the ovulation and the luteal activity were seen at 16.63, 27.76 and 41.38 after postpartum, respectively; before (p<0.05) on cows with BC = 3.5;in which both the (p<0.05) and the volume of the LC and P4 concentrations were higher. The BC was correlated with (p<0.05) with the OPR parameters. The cows with <3.5 BC points, are 10.50 times more prompt to have a late OPR than those with a = de 3.5 points BC. Conclusions. The OPR was early, BC had an influence on it, which constituted a major (p<0.05) risk factor on cows having a late OPR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The body condition index is a measure that attempts to describe energy storage compared to body length. This research was carried out with the aim of obtaining a body condition index in Ctenosaura pectinata. We used 40 adult females distributed between two groups. The iguanas were fed with four types of commercial food. They were also weighed in grams, their body lengths were measured in centimeters (total, snout-vent and head), body diameters were measured in centimeters (tail base, hip, leg, and pelvis) and body volume was measured in milliliters. Descriptive statistics were performed and variables were checked for normality. A Pearson correlation analysis was carried out to identify any related variables. A body condition index classification was obtained from the mean value and standard deviation (I: 2S-µ, II: S-µ, III: µ+S and IV: µ+2S) and a prediction equation for volume was obtained by Stepwise analysis. The body condition index turned to be highly accurate (r=0.98, p 0.0001). A body condition index classification in black iguana (Ctenosaura pectinata) was established, which will be useful for monitoring the body reserves of the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For effective sheep production, males and females in good nutritional status, healthy and functional, are needed. The nutritional status can be known through the body condition score, whose evaluation allows corrections in management and increase the productive and reproductive efficiency of sheep according to their physiological status. The objective of this study was to evaluate the body conditioning sheep in relation to their physiological state trough semi-technical exploration, and on this basis make a diagnosis of reliable productive and reproductive situation. The study was carried out in the northern part of La Pampa province, in 8 mixed farms in spring-summer. A disparity of corporal sate was observed in sheep's with the same physiological state in a sheep flock which means unfit animals. There is a tendency of the productive cycle to lean towards inefficiency that requires management interventions as to synchronize its stages with an optimal animal's state and achieve maximum development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conservation and sustainable management of local animal genetic resources and their diversity are priority tasks within a national and international framework. Officially listed as a threatened native breed, Canarian camels (Camelus dromedarius) are marginally reduced to the eastern islands of the archipelago and mainly used in touristic activities; sporadically, these animals are used for production of food and other products. Morphostructural and zoometric characterization of Canarian camel will lead to the identification of those genetic-based characters or features involved in productive functional activities. The present methodological proposal is framed into a context of opportunity and resurgence of a potential production industry throughout the establishment of the baselines for a sustainable selective breeding program in this livestock species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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El objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar el efecto del consumo de energía metabolizable (CEM) sobre el contenido energético de la canal de ovejas Pelibuey. Veinticuatro (24) ovejas con un peso vivo de 37.2±4.0 kg y condición corporal de 2.5± 0.12 se asignaron al azar a cuatro grupos de seis animales. Un grupo se sacrificó al inicio del experimento para las mediciones de referencia, y las ovejas de los grupos restantes se asignaron a uno de tres niveles de CEM: bajo (B), medio (M) y alto (A) durante 65 días. El CEM fue: 0.247, 0.472 y 0.532 MJ/kgPV0.75/día para B, M y A, respectivamente. Las ovejas se sacrificaron y la canal se dividió en dos mitades; la mitad izquierda se disecó en grasa, músculo y hueso. Las ovejas en el nivel B y M removieron 55 y el 26 % de su contenido de energía inicial de la canal respectivamente, mientras que el nivel A aumentó su contenido de energía en un 14 %. Los cambios diarios en la energía en la canal fueron -1.099, -0.515 y 0.285 MJ/día para B, M y A, respectivamente. Las proporciones de la energía en canal como músculo y grasa fueron 76 y 24 %, 68 y 32 %, y 65 y 35 % para los niveles de B, M y A, respectivamente. Las ovejas Pelibuey remueven aproximadamente el 55 % del contenido de energía de la canal cuando se someten a condiciones de subalimentación severa.

In order to evaluate the welfare principles (feeding, facilities, health and behavior) in sheep of small productive units (SPU), the modified Animal Welfare Indicators (AWIN) protocol was applied in SPU conditions of the northwest of the State of Mexico. Ten sheep farms with 217 sheeps were evaluated. The results show an animal welfare index qualified as good (2.34) for the SPU´s evaluated. The animal welfare indicators that showed the greatest influence on the score were body condition, mortality, wool dirt, tail mutilation, anemia produced by internal parasites evaluated by FAMACHA method (François Malan Chart's) and leakage. To validate and generalize the tool generated in this study, future works should expand the sample of SPU and sheeps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Revista Veterinaria is the property of Universidad Nacional del Nordeste 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.)

A reproductive characterization of autochthonous culled cows was performed to three herds in Huambo province, Angola, in June. Fifty-four of all the cows evaluated (331) in the three herds were culled animals (24, 17, and 3 per herd, respectively). Age, body condition (BC), total calving (TC), and calving interval (CI) were determined. General descriptive statistics was performed, and the factor studied was the herd. Age was distributed normally and the herds were compared through ANOVA and Tukey for multiple means. The other variables (BC, TC, and CI) were evaluated through the Krustall Wallis method, and Umann-Whitney. The general age mean was 8.15 ± 1.80, and the medians for BC, TC, and CI were, 2.5, 3.0, and 730.0, respectively. Overall, the results were distant from the optimal reproduction values. The BC (P < 0.05), TC, (P < 0.01), and CI (P < .01) were significantly influenced by the herd. Regardless of the herd effect, the poor utilization of the productive potential was produced due to early age at culling, with insufficient instances of excessively prolonged TC and CI, and nutritional problems expressed in low BC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The article titled "Animal welfare status based on animal level indicators of calves in cattle breeding systems in the departments of Córdoba, Sucre, and Meta" presents a study on animal welfare in calves in cattle breeding systems in the departments of Córdoba, Sucre, and Meta in Colombia. The objective of the study was to determine the animal welfare status through animal level indicators. A total of 351 calves were evaluated in 23 productive systems, and different indicators such as body condition, presence of wounds, respiratory signs, hoof condition, pathological diarrhea, tick count, and fly count were observed. The results showed excellent levels of animal welfare in most of the indicators, with low body condition being the main problem found in a small proportion of the calves. [Extracted from the article]

Con el objetivo de evaluar la prevalencia de Fasciola hepatica en vacas en pastoreo durante el período poco lluvioso, se realizó una investigación en una unidad de lechería bovina en el municipio de Jovellanos, provincia de Matanzas, Cuba. Se utilizó el 100 % de los animales del racial Mestizo Siboney pertenecientes al grupo de ordeño, con una edad entre 5 y 7 años, lactancia entre 90-114 días y un peso promedio de 390 kg. Los animales fueron distribuidos en tres grupos en función de su condición corporal: CC-2,5; CC-3 y CC-3,5. Posteriormente al diagnóstico inicial para determinar el nivel de infestación por F. hepatica, los animales fueron desparasitados con Labiozol®. Se realizaron muestreos mensuales de heces para determinar la carga parasitaria de fasciola (CFH); además se determinó el peso vivo, la condición corporal y la producción de leche individual de los animales. La prevalencia del parásito en el rebaño lechero fue mayor en los meses de febrero y marzo, con 58,3 y 62,5 % de animales positivos, respectivamente. Los mayores porcentajes se correspondieron con los animales del grupo de más baja condición corporal, los cuales mostraron un mayor CFH (14,1 hpg) y alcanzaron la menor producción para el período, con diferencias significativas (p< 0,05) respecto a los animales de los grupos CC-3 y CC-3,5. Se concluye que la prevalencia de F. hepatica en la unidad superó el 50 % durante el periodo poco lluvioso; el grupo de más baja condición corporal fue el de mayor carga parasitaria, así como el de menor producción de leche.