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The effects of bilateral topical application of repeated doses of rocuronium in parrots are unknown, motivating this research. These effects were evaluated in 24 healthy adult Amazon parrots (12 Amazona aestiva and 12 Amazona amazonica). Three different doses of rocuronium bromide (10 mg/mL) were applied with a micropipette onto the cornea: a single instillation of 20 µL/eye; two instillations of 20 µL/eye, spaced 15 minutes apart; and three instillations of 20 µL/eye, spaced 15 minutes apart. Pupillary diameter (PD) was measured with a digital caliper before treatments (T0), every 15 minutes during the first hour postadministration (T15, T30, T45, T60), hourly for 6 hours (T120, T180, T240, T300, T360), and after 24 hours (T24h). Significant differences were observed between T0 and T15-T120 with a single instillation and between T0 and T15-T360 with double and triple instillations. The maximum median PDs were 3.47 mm (T45—one instillation), 3.88 mm (T45—two instillations), and 4.09 mm (T30—three instillations). PD returned to baseline at T180 with one instillation and at T24h with double and triple instillations. All protocols showed similar PD values at T0 and T24h. Transient lower eyelid paresis was the only adverse effect observed. Bilateral topical administrations of two and three repeated rocuronium bromide doses produced adequate mydriasis in Amazon parrots and may be indicated for longer ophthalmic procedures.

Made available in DSpace on 2022-04-28T19:41:57Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2021-06-01 The occurrence of neoplasms in birds is still unknown, with the literature based mainly on scarce reports, in this context, data about epidemiology in specific species are almost nonexistent. Sarcomas are malignant mesenchymal origin neoplasms, which can develop from different tissues, such as adipose, cartilage, bone, among others. The occurrence of sarcomas in birds has been previously described, with different therapeutic approaches. The present report describes the clinical approach in a blue-fronted amazon (Amazona aestiva) diagnosed with a soft tissue sarcoma in the dorsal cervical region, with surgical excision associated with a metronomic chemotherapy protocol as an adjuvant. The therapeutic combination proved to be effective in controlling the disease, guaranteeing important survival, with clinical absence of side effects. Médica Veterinária Autônoma Programa de Ciências Veterinárias Universidade Estadual Paulista Programa de Ciências Veterinárias Universidade Estadual Paulista

Ascaridiasis by Ascaridia hermaphrodita is a common parasitic disease in blue-fronted Amazon parrots (Amazona aestiva) and the contamination occurs by ingestion of eggs. Illegal trade of wild birds can increase the frequency of visceral erratic migration by this parasite. Hence, this report describes the erratic migration of A. hermaphrodita and associated lesions in a blue-fronted Amazon parrot. This is a retrospective study, which originated from several apprehension of illegal birds in the state of Paraíba, Brazil. Necropsy revealed intense intestinal ascarid infestation. Hepatic lesions were also observed associated with the parasite migration. Stereoscopy allowed the identification of the morphology of the parasites. Summarizing, this condition in wild birds is not fully understood and may be associated with illegal trade. RESUMO Ascaridíase por Ascaridia hermaphrodita é uma doença parasitária comum em papagaios-verdadeiros. Sua contaminação ocorre pela ingestão de ovos. O tráfico de aves silvestres pode facilitar a migração errática visceral desse parasita. Este relato descreve a migração errática de A. hermaphrodita e lesões associadas em papagaio-verdadeiro. Trata-se de um relato retrospectivo, analisado a partir de uma série de apreensões de aves no estado da Paraíba, Brasil. A necropsia revelou intensa infestação ascarídea intestinal. Também foram observadas lesões hepáticas em uma ave, associadas à migração do parasita. A estereoscopia permitiu distinguir a morfologia dos parasitas. Resumidamente, essa condição em aves silvestres é pouco conhecida e pode ser considerada, inclusive, associada à comercialização ilegal.

Urbanization is a worldwide problem affecting wildlife negatively. Cities cause habitat suppression, fragmentation, among other disease spreading, suitable conditions for exotic species, and direct animal kills—consequently, local native species might be extinct. Still, urban areas can also provide biodiversity maintenance because some species can be adapted to the urban environment. Here, we assess how the urban environment influences the displacement of native turquoise-fronted Amazon (Amazona aestiva). We created a map of environmental suitability to modeling A. aestiva displacement routes among three protected areas in Brasilia, Brazil. We tested (1) if the modeled corridors tend to be near to the areas where A. aestiva occurs and (2) how landscape spatial heterogeneity influences those modeled routes. We expected to observe oriented routes in homogeneous areas (few pixels with high-frequency selection), and the opposite in heterogeneous areas. To test our hypotheses, we recorded A. aestiva and correlated its presence/absence with the modeled corridors and correlated the landscape spatial heterogeneity with different metrics of the modeled corridors. Our results indicate that at least one of the modeled routes was near to the points with parrots. In general, potential dispersal routes with little spatial variation occurred in homogeneous areas. In the urban matrix, potential routes were less oriented with more spatial variation. Our results suggest the adoption of different strategies to manage the natural environment in an urban matrix. By managing the spatial heterogeneity, it is possible to direct how the species use the space, promoting the displacement to desired areas, avoiding the more urbanized ones.

The blue-fronted Amazon parrot is an extremely popular pet bird in Brazil. These birds are commonly raised in captivity and are often seen in veterinary practice. Modern imaging modalities such as computed tomography (CT), which had not been widely used in wild and exotic bird medicine until recently, are now becoming more popular due to wider availability and higher diagnostic accuracy. However, proper interpretation of tomographic findings requires species-specific anatomical references. Studies investigating normal tomographic anatomy of parrots are scarce. This study set out to describe the normal anatomy of the head of the blue-fronted amazon parrot (Amazona aestiva) using conventional CT. Anatomical descriptions may contribute to future comparative morphology studies and assist in clinical practice. The head of the blue-fronted Amazon parrot is structurally similar to other bird species. Major differences detected were are as follows: size and position of nasal conchae (long middle concha and small caudal concha located at the end of the nasal cavity), infraorbital sinus aperture located on the lateral aspect of the nasal cavity, presence of a nasopharyngeal duct connecting the nasal and oral cavities, longer infraorbital sinus with a larger number of caudal compartments and paraglossum with morphological features unique to psittacines. High-quality CT images were vital for identification and detailed description of most head structures. Multiplanar reconstruction was a useful tool for complete visualization of the head. However, conventional CT images were not good enough for visualization of the inner ear and related structures, as well the paratympanic sinus.

Na maioria das espécies de aves não é possível realizar a identificação do gênero pelas características fenotípicas externas já que os órgãos reprodutivos são internos. Sendo assim, como é fundamental para os criadores realizar esta diferenciação sexual não apenas pela reprodução mas também pelo fato que em algumas espécies apenas os machos manifestam certas características como o canto, é extremamente importante realizar a sexagem de aves por meio da análise do DNA, que além de conferir 99,9% de confiabilidade ao resultado, traz outras vantagens em relação a outras técnicas, como a diminuição do estresse e do risco de danos à ave e também o fato de ser aplicado a partir de qualquer idade (ideal para os filhotes). O objetivo deste trabalho foi realizar a sexagem de 13 aves da espécie de Amazona aestiva (Papagaio-Verdadeiro) por meio da técnica de PCR (Reação em Cadeia de Polimerase). Já que nas aves o sexo heterogamético é o das fêmeas, duas bandas foram observadas para este sexo e apenas uma foi observada para o masculino, sendo identificados 5 machos e 3 fêmeas. A partir dos resultados obtidos foi possível concluir que a técnica de PCR permitiu identificar o sexo dos animais de forma eficaz e pouco invasiva representando uma importante ferramenta para o direcionamento de acasalamentos e conservação da espécie de aves silvestres.

Birds can solve many cognitive tasks that were previously only solved by primates, implying that their cognitive ability is far greater than expected. Here, we investigated the ability of blue-fronted amazon parrots in solving the pebble-and-seed and the multi-access-box paradigms, two ecologically relevant cognitive tasks varying in complexity and required skills to solve. We also investigated whether laterality, sex and housing conditions influenced problem-solving capacity. We tested 14 adults kept in captivity and 27 reintroduced adults. Here, we present evidence of laterality for the species, showing right-footed, left-footed and ambidextrous individuals. Left-footed animals were more successful than the right-footed animals in the pebble-and-seed test. There was no sex difference in the problem-solving capacity of the blue-fronted amazon parrots for both pebble-and-seed and multi-access-box paradigms. Eleven captive animals were successful in at least one of the four multiple-access-box possible solutions. Four reintroduced individuals were successful in at least one of the multiple-access-box possible solutions. Only two captive animals and one reintroduced animal succeeded to solve more than one of the four multiple-access-box solutions. The average success rate of the pebble-and-seed test was 88.16% ex situ and 86.58% in situ, with individual variation in test-solving ability. Our study shows that unlike laterality, sex was not determinant in blue-fronted amazon parrots' problem-solving ability. The blue-fronted amazon parrots have the visual discrimination skills needed for the pebble-and-seed task solution, and the motor skills for beak-foot coordination and potentially understanding of complex spatial relationships required for the string-pulling task, the multi-access-box solution achieved by most of the animals. Our results increased the knowledge of the cognitive ability of parrots, a group which lacked extensive cognition data.

The sexing birds is considered an important tool for behavioral studies and programs for the reintroduction of animals into the wild. Several techniques are used for this purpose, such as laparoscopy, magnetic resonance and molecular sexing. The first are considered more invasive and stressful for the animal, and the last is considered the most accurate. According to it, the aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of using three sets of primers in the molecular sexing process of true parrots (Amazona aestiva). Blood samples from 10 animals were collected at a Wildlife Screening Center (CETAS) in Bahia, Brazil. The DNA was extracted and the molecular markers amplified by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) using primer pairs P2/P8, 1237L/1272H and 2250F/2718R. The amplified material was visualized with electrophoresis performed at 2% agarose and 12.5% polyacrylamide gels. Among the primer sets used, the 2250F/2718R pair showed the best results for the sexing process, including visualization of the amplified products on an agarose gel. Agarose gel electrophoresis is considered to be faster and cheaper. The results revealed a sample composition of 5 males (0.5) and 5 females (0.5). El sexaje de aves es considerado una herramienta importante para estudios de comportamiento y programas de reintroducción de animales en el medio natural. Diversas técnicas son utilizadas para este fin, como la laparoscopia, la resonancia magnética y el sexaje molecular. Las primeras son consideradas más invasivas y estresantes para el animal y la última es considerada la más precisa. Ante el expuesto, el presente trabajo tuvo el objetivo de comparar la eficiencia del uso de tres conjuntos de primers en el proceso de sexaje molecular de loros verdaderos (Amazona aestiva). Así, se recogieron muestras sanguíneas de diez animales, en el Centro de Triage de Animales Silvestres (CETAS) del estado de Bahía, Brasil. El ADN fue extraído y los marcadores moleculares amplificados por Reacción en Cadena de la Polimerasa (PCR), utilizando los pares de cebadores: P2/ P8, 1237/1272H y 2250F/2718R. Para la visualización del material amplificado se realizó electroforesis en geles de agarosa 2% y de poliacrilamida 12,5%. Entre los conjuntos de cebadores utilizados, el par 2250F/2718R presentó los mejores resultados para el sexaje, incluyendo la visualización de los productos amplificados en gel de agarosa. La electroforesis en gel de agarosa es considerada más rápida y menos costosa. Los resultados revelaron una composición muestral de 5 machos (0,5) y 5 hembras (0,5). A sexagem das aves é considerada uma importante ferramenta para estudos comportamentais e programas de reintrodução de animais na natureza. Diversas técnicas são utilizadas para esse fim, como laparoscopia, ressonância magnética e sexagem molecular. Os primeiros são considerados mais invasivos e estressantes para o animal, e o último é considerado o mais preciso. Tendo isto em vista, o objetivo deste estudo foi comparar a eficácia do uso de três conjuntos de primers no processo de sexagem molecular de papagaios verdadeiros (Amazona aestiva). Amostras de sangue de 10 animais foram coletadas em um Centro de Triagem de Animais Selvagens (CETAS) na Bahia, Brasil. O DNA foi extraído e os marcadores moleculares amplificados por Reação em Cadeia da Polimerase (PCR) utilizando os iniciadores P2/P8, 1237L/1272H e 2250F/2718R. O material amplificado foi visualizado com eletroforese, realizada em géis de agarose 2% e poliacrilamida 12,5%. Dentre os conjuntos de primers utilizados, o par 2250F/2718R apresentou os melhores resultados para o processo de sexagem, incluindo a visualização dos produtos amplificados em gel de agarose. A eletroforese em gel de agarose é considerada mais rápida e barata. Os resultados revelaram uma composição amostral de 5 machos (0,5) e 5 fêmeas (0,5).

CASE DESCRIPTION A 28-year-old blue-fronted Amazon parrot (Amazona aestiva) with a 1 -week history of regurgitation-like movement of the neck and a 34-year-old mealy Amazon parrot (Amazona farinosa) with a 1- to 2-day history of regurgitation and crop distention were evaluated. CLINICAL FINDINGS Full-body radiography of the blue-fronted Amazon parrot revealed a soft tissue structure in the right side of the neck, cranial to the crop. Results of cytologic examination of a fine-needle aspirate specimen of the mass were diagnostic for an epithelial sarcoma involving the esophagus. For the mealy Amazon parrot, CT revealed diffuse esophageal thickening that was most consistent with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma on the basis of its location and appearance. Both parrots had secondary bacterial ingluvitis. TREATMENT AND OUTCOME Given the location and extent of the neoplasm in each bird, surgical excision was not undertaken. Options of chemotherapy and radiation therapy were explored but declined by the owners owing to concerns regarding the parrots' quality of life. Both parrots were euthanized, and necropsy findings confirmed the diagnosis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma in both cases. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Both parrots of the present report had a palpable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma detected during physical examination. Although rare, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma should be included as a differential diagnosis for psittacines with upper gastrointestinal tract signs. Treatment to extend duration or quality of life of affected parrots hinges on antemortem diagnosis, which appears feasible in clinical practice.

Made available in DSpace on 2019-10-06T16:56:47Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2019-04-01 This study aimed to evaluate topical medications, lavage solutions and laser therapy for treating open clean wounds induced in captive blue-fronted Amazon parrots. Twenty-four blue-fronted Amazon parrots (Amazona aestiva) were divided into 6 groups according to the wound treatment: Group DEX—dexpanthenol 5% ointment; Group RIC—ointment of Ricinus communis oil; Group CHL—chlorhexidine digluconate solution 1%; Group SSS—0.9% sterile saline solution; Group LLL—low-level laser therapy and Group CON—no treatment, control. Four full-thickness wounds were induced in the front part of the chest area with the aid of an 8-mm punch. In each parrot, the 4 wounds received the same treatment, every 48 hours until healing, according to the group. In all groups, on postoperative days 5, 14 and 21, biopsies were taken for histological examination. One of the 4 wounds was not submitted to biopsy but rather was used for wound size measurements. Group CON presented the longest healing time and differed statistically from the other groups. Excluding Group CON, groups CHL and SSS showed no significant difference. Microscopically, groups DEX and CHL showed higher fibroplasia and epithelialization compared to the other groups on day 21. In conclusion, the best results were achieved macroscopically through lavage solutions, chlorhexidine digluconate solution or sterile saline solution; however, chlorhexidine digluconate was superior microscopically. The laser therapy and dexpanthenol ointment showed intermediate results, whereas the Ricinus communis oil showed the worst results. Department of Veterinary Surgery and Anesthesiology São Paulo State University (UNESP) Bioscience Institute (UNESP) Department of Veterinary Surgery and Anesthesiology São Paulo State University (UNESP) Bioscience Institute (UNESP)

The Turquoise-fronted Amazon Amazona aestiva is one of the most extensively poached species as a result of illegal trade in Brazil. Reintroduction programs have been increasingly used in the management of these animals in captivity. Several preparatory procedures should be carried out during the pre-release period to characterize the group of animals and subsequently increase the success of reintroduction programs. The most important procedures are temperament assessment and environmental enrichment training, which is expected to influence the behavior of the released birds. This study aimed to assess the temperament of the amazons in captivity and its influence on a reintroduction program. The temperaments of 50 parrots were classified from shy to bold and monitored during five phases of activity throughout the study: environmental enrichment training in captivity, a period of acclimatization in an aviary placed in the release area, the offer of fruit from the release region, dependence on the aviary after it was opened, and post-release food supplementation. Once the animals were released, they were monitored for 18 months. Temperament assessment supported the reintroduction project, because through this information it was possible to predict the individual behaviors of reintroduced animals when dealing with environmental challenges. The purpose of the pre-release environmental enrichment training was to encourage individual amazons to increase exploratory behaviors, and was effective in enhancing the natural behavior of the species and reducing stereotypies. Animals classified as shy required a longer intervention period to achieve the same results since they exhibited greater dependence on the aviary and, consequently, took longer to explore the release area. In the medium term, no significant difference was observed between shy and bold parrots in their departure after opening the aviary, use of supplementary feeding, or survival. Therefore, the activities performed prior to release adequately promoted similar habituation conditions for both profiles.

Reintroducing apprehended wild animal in a natural environment is a complex process that involves many steps, including rehabilitating individuals and ensuring viable populations for reproduction; as such, the proportion between males and females to be reintroduced need to be considered carefully. The need of specialized techniques to identify sex on species that do not present discernible sexual dimorphisms can be a hardship to a successful reintroduction. Amazona aestiva, one of the most apprehended species on Brazil, is an example of such case, as sexing techniques employed for it often involves molecular or surgical procedures. Some authors, however, describe potential sexual dimorphisms that could be discernible to the human eye, one of those being an iris color dichromatism between males and females that could present a more conventional way to discern sex on this species. We analyzed the viability of sex identification by direct observation of iris sexual dichromatism, comparing suggestions by professionals familiarized with the species to molecular sexing by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and measuring color similarity between individuals using digital colorimetry. We found no significant correspondence between sex indication based on direct observation and molecular sexing results, and no relationship between iris color and sex by colorimetric analysis.

Obtaining craniometric data is key to establishing parameters that can help in the anatomic identification and understanding of species. The aim of the present study was to establish the craniometric data and describe the main skull bones and structures of Amazona aestiva, which has become common in veterinary clinics, originated from the legalized purchase or trafficking of animals. A total of 20 adult specimens were used, donated for studies by the Paraíba Wild Animal Screening Center (Centro de Triagem de Animais Silvestres da Paraíba (CETAS-PB)/IBAMA-PB, Brazil. The skulls were dissected and macerated with water. First were identified the frontal, maxilla, mandible, nasal, jugal and quadrate bones that served as a base to identify other bone structures that were then compared with the skull of other bird species already described in the literature, especially psitacids. Values were obtained by measuring with a digital pachymeter, and the maximum skull length was 63.0 mm, the maximum width 33.0 mm and the rhamphotheca was 33.8 mm long. No significant differences were observed between males and females and well developed cranial kinesis was a remarkable characteristic of the species. The data obtained serve as a base to identify and characterize the species. These data can also aid in the clinic, imaging and veterinary surgery. A obtenção de dados craniométricos é fundamental para o estabelecimento de parâmetros que auxiliem na identificação anatômica e na compreensão das espécies. O objetivo do presente estudo foi estabelecer os dados craniométricos e descrever os principais ossos e estruturas do crânio do Amazona aestiva, que se tornou comum em clínicas veterinárias, oriundos de aquisição legal ou tráfico de animais. Foram utilizados 20 indivíduos adultos, doados para estudos do Centro de Triagem de Animais Silvestres da Paraíba (CETAS-PB) / IBAMA-PB, Brasil. Os crânios foram dissecados e macerados com água. Identificaram-se os ossos frontal, maxilar, mandibular, nasal, jugal e quadrado, que serviram de base para identificar outras estruturas ósseas que foram então, comparadas com o crânio de outras espécies de aves já descritas na literatura, principalmente psitacideos. Valores numéricos foram adquiridos através de mensuração com paquímetro digital, sendo o comprimento máximo do crânio de 63,0 mm, largura máxima de 33,0 mm e ranfoteca de 33,8 mm de comprimento. Não foram observadas diferenças significativas entre machos e fêmeas e, uma craniocinese bem desenvolvida foi característica marcante da espécie. Os dados obtidos servem de base para identificar e caracterizar as espécies. Estes dados também podem auxiliar na clínica, imagem e cirurgia veterinária.

Parrots are among the most threatened avian groups of the world, with illegal pet trade being a major threat to some Amazon (Amazona genus) and macaw (Ara and Anodorhynchus genera) species. Population genetic studies and effective control of commercial breeders are important actions for the conservation of these parrot species; however, few microsatellite loci are available for most Amazona species to date. In this study, 25 polymorphic microsatellite loci were identified in silico and characterized for the Blue-fronted Amazon [Amazona aestiva (Aa)]. Loci were tested in 24 Blue-fronted Amazons from wild population from central Brazil with cross-species amplified in two individuals of Amazona vinacea (Av) and Amazona pretrei (Ap) from northeastern Minas Gerais and Rio Grande do Sul, in southeastern and south of Brazil, respectively. The number of alleles per locus for Aa ranged from 5 to 24 with an average of 13.1. Twenty-four and 25 loci were successfully amplified for Av and Ap, respectively. The observed and expected heterozygosities for Aa ranged from 0.27 to 1.00 and from 0.35 to 0.94, with averages of 0.75 and 0.85, respectively. Nine loci significantly deviated from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium after Bonferroni correction (likely due to null alleles) and no significant linkage disequilibrium between loci pairs was detected. The combined paternity exclusion probability was very high, and the probability of identity was extremely low. This new set of microsatellite loci will be useful for analyzing population genetic structure and making conservation and management decisions, as well as for parentage analysis and the control of commercial breeding of Aa and potentially other Amazona species.

Made available in DSpace on 2020-12-12T01:53:40Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2020-03-01 This study aimed to assess radiographic and tomographic cardiac parameters, including width and length of the heart, and the ratio of heart width to coelom width of blue-fronted Amazon parrots (Amazona aestiva) with varying body condition scores. Thirty-five captive birds were included in the study and were allocated into one of three groups according to their respective body condition score: lean, ideal and obese. No differences were observed among the groups with regard to radiographic and tomographic measurements. Computed tomography enabled better identification of the structures of the cardiovascular system without interference from the overlying structures of the celomatic cavity observed in radiographic images. However, radiographic examinations should still be considered the standard screening method to identify cardiac alterations, such as increased or reduced organ dimensions. Standardizing the techniques and measurements performed in this study may serve as a basis for further research in the field. Graduate Program in Wild Animals School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science Univ Estadual Paulista (Unesp) Department of Veterinary Clinic School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science Univ Estadual Paulista (Unesp) Department of Animal Reproduction and Veterinary Radiology School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science Univ Estadual Paulista (Unesp) Department of Veterinary Surgery and Anesthesiology School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science Univ Estadual Paulista (Unesp) Graduate Program in Wild Animals School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science Univ Estadual Paulista (Unesp) Department of Veterinary Clinic School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science Univ Estadual Paulista (Unesp) Department of Animal Reproduction and Veterinary Radiology School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science Univ Estadual Paulista (Unesp) Department of Veterinary Surgery and Anesthesiology School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science Univ Estadual Paulista (Unesp)

Made available in DSpace on 2018-11-26T17:48:48Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2018-05-01 Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) Despite Psitaciformes (parrots) being the third largest nonpasserine order (398 species), it currently ranks second in number of threatened species (28%) according to the Internatinal Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) criteria. Since most of the literature concerning reproductive endocrinology in avian species derives from domestic and song birds, it is puzzling that advances in reproductive science for the Psitaciformes order lags far behind, in spite of the growing threats against them. In order to expand our knowledge of Neotropical parrots (Psittacidae), we examined annual changes in urofecal sex steroid metabolites of Blue-fronted amazon pairs (Amazona aestiva) exhibiting successful (nestlings) and unsuccessful breeding (infertile or no eggs). Urofecal samples were collected over a year from eight breeding pairs housed under the same environmental and management conditions. Fecal androgen and progestagen concentrations were determined in males and females, respectively, by enzyme immunoassays previously validated for this species. All eggs were registered between late winter and mid-spring, and egg laying intervals varied between females (range: 1-8 days; average 3.60 +/- 0.51 days). Similar profiles of urofecal progestagens were observed in reproductively successful females and females producing infertile eggs, with progestagen peaks preceding egg laying events (1.77 +/- 0.50 days). In contrast, non-laying females had no rises in progestagens during the year. Successful and unsuccessful males did not displayed distinct annual patterns of androgen production, and apart from the peaks during the breeding season, more than half of the individuals intriguingly presented significant increases from late summer to early autumn, a period without reproductive activity. Finally, we noticed that samples with progestagen levels exceeding 40 ng/g had very high probability (>97.5%) to be from females in pre-laying or laying phases, suggesting a feasible application of this characteristic to noninvasively discriminate the reproductive status in amazon females with an accuracy and sensitivity of 94.55% and 58.13%, respectively. Our findings confirmed that urofecal progestagens and androgens are good indicators of the gonadal condition in Blue-fronted amazons, but there is still much to be done for their extensive use in artificial insemination or selection of the most suitable breeding birds for the season. (C) 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. Univ Sao Paulo, Fac Med Vet & Zootecnia, Dept Reprod Anim, GEMA, BR-05508900 Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Fac Ciencias Agr & Vet, Programa Posgrad Med Vet, BR-14884900 Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Fac Ciencias Agr & Vet, Dept Zootecnia, Nucleo Pesquisa & Conservacao Cervideos NUPECCE, BR-14884900 Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Fac Ciencias Agr & Vet, Programa Posgrad Med Vet, BR-14884900 Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Fac Ciencias Agr & Vet, Dept Zootecnia, Nucleo Pesquisa & Conservacao Cervideos NUPECCE, BR-14884900 Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil FAPESP: 10/06500-7

Vocal communication is fundamental to regulate the social interactions in most gregarious species especially after dispersal movements for foraging or predator escape. A species common acoustic signal may be beneficial to group members and is especially critical in species that disperse large distances like parrots. In this study, we investigated whether parrots flight-calls carry species-specific characteristics and tested its variability within and across species. We also assessed the hypothesis of relationship between similarity in species flight-calls and phylogeny. We studied the flight-calls of 10 parrot species all occurring in Cerrado habitat in central Brazil. Our results show that, spectrum wise, there is not a discrete spectral partition between species flight-calls. Flight-calls are conservative within most of the species. Both spectral and temporal dimensions contribute to the difference between species. The species specificity of the calls was confirmed by cross correlation approach. Nevertheless, we found a difference in the call variability with some species exhibiting stereotyped calls (e.g. Amazona aestiva) while others exhibited variable calls (Brotogeris chiriri), suggesting that the function of the flight-call may differ between species, from conveying species signatures to more specific information like group or individual signature. As expected, closely related species have more similar calls. These results show that parrots flight-calls have species-specific characteristics. In some species, these calls can potentially be used in the maintenance of the group or could code other type of information, suggesting that flight-calls may play different roles depending of the species life history. FCT - Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion

The blue-fronted Amazon parrot (Amazona aestiva) is a psittacine species that suffers greatly from the illegal wildlife trade in Brazil, being subjected to severe stress during this process. In this study, hematologic values were determined to evaluate the general health condition of 27 A. aestiva nestlings seized from illegal trade and sent to the wildlife rehabilitation center of Campo Grande. Conventional techniques were performed for hematological analysis, and the following means were observed: red blood cell count, 2.3 x 10 6/µL; white blood cell count, 11.1 x 10 3/µL; heterophils, 6.6 x 10 3/µL; lymphocytes, 4.3 x 10 3/µL; eosinophils, 0; basophils, 0.1 x 10 3/µL; and monocytes, 0.1 x 10 3/µL. Heterophil:lymphocyte ratio was 1.6. These values support future clinical assessments on A. aestiva nestlings kept as pets or even in free-living conditions.

Social species in captivity may face allostatic overload due to artificial grouping and other social constraints. In rescue centres, groups of psittacines are constantly mixed due to the arrival and/or release of individuals; this procedure is potentially harmful to animal welfare. This study aimed at evaluating the possible impacts of mate replacement on the stress levels of captive blue-fronted amazon parrots (Amazona aestiva). During five weeks, we recorded agonistic interactions and dropping-glucocorticoid metabolites (GCM) concentrations of individuals allocated in a group whose members were kept constant and in a group subjected to frequent member replacement. In both groups, non-linear hierarchies developed, without sex differences regarding aggression or hierarchical positions. The replacement of individuals had no effect on the number of agonistic interactions or on the animals' stress levels. In both groups, higher-ranking individuals had higher stress loads than subordinates. Our study, the first to investigate the social dynamics of A. aestiva, indicated that introducing or removing individuals in captive groups does not seem to affect the welfare of the birds in the short term. This information favours release and reintroduction programs and is relevant for conservation management of this, and possibly other parrot species with similar environmental requirements.

Anti-predator behavior and personality have important consequences for the survival of captive-bred animals after reintroduction in the wild. The personality of an animal can be defined as low within-individual variation in behavior relative to between-individual variation in behavior. Mortality caused by predation is the main reason for reintroduction failure, and training captive-born animals to avoid predators can solve this problem. However, how anti-predator training affects the personality of animals is uncertain. The objective of this study was to test the behavioral responses of captive Amazon Parrots (Amazona aestiva, Psittacidae) submitted to an anti-predator conditioning protocol, and to evaluate if anti-predator training affects parrot personalities. Twenty-six parrots were trained against predators using taxidermized models; their personalities were evaluated by calculating boldness scores before and after anti-predator training sessions. Parrots increased the expression of anti-predator behaviors when tested with all models; control groups behaved in a more relaxed way. The anti-predator responses persisted for 60 days after the end of the training sessions. Boldness scores increased in 50% of cases after anti-predator training sessions, and in only 33% of cases did parrots become shyer after anti-predator training. The tendency of parrots to exhibit bold behaviors in the personality tests, even after the training sessions, may be explained by their early experiences, low behavioral plasticity or high cognitive ability. Training naive parrots was an effective tool to enhance behavioral responses against predators before reintroduction. The study of personality is of great importance in reintroduction and translocation programs to determine the position of each individual in the shy-bold continuum and to help select individuals more suited for reintroduction.

OBJECTIVE: Optical coherence tomography (OCT) measurement of adult blue‐fronted parrots (Amazona aestiva), free from infectious, inflammatory or neoplastic systemic diseases and from any ophthalmological illness, aim at its characterization, as well as to standardize the examination technique for the species. PROCEDURE: Pupillary dilation was achieved with rocuronium bromide (5 mg/mL) at 0, 2, 15, 17, 30, and 32 minutes. The animals were sedated with midazolam maleate (0.5 mg/kg/IM) and anesthetized with propofol (5.0 mg/kg/IV). Measurements were made to evaluate the thickness of the total retina (TR), sensorineural retinal (SR), and ganglion cell complex (GCC), 2 millimeters (mm) from the pecten toward the fovea. OCT data were compared to measurements of retinal histological slides from enucleated eyes of blue‐fronted parrots, scanned in automatic fluorescence microscope and measured with by the VS‐ASW® software. RESULTS: Averages of measurements from the 43 retinas evaluated by OCT were TR: 279.40 micrometers (μm), SR: 255.90 μm, and GCC: 138.60 μm, respectively, and the measurements of six retinas using fluorescence microscopy were 260.30 μm for TR, 238.20 μm for SR, and 129.30 μm for GCC, demonstrating a high correlation coefficient between all measurements (r = .8698, P

Owning wild species as pets is becoming more and more common. Consequently, experience in caring for them has grown, resulting in the diagnosis of numerous diseases. Among these are cardiovascular disorders, especially in parrots. However, the lack of specificity or the absence of clinical signs of these diseases make it difficult to assess cardiovascular issues during the physical examination of birds. This leads to underdiagnosis of these conditions, with the majority being diagnosed post-mortem. This study reports the cardiovascular findings in post-mortem examinations of individuals of the species Amazona aestiva (true parrot) of Centro de Triagem de Animais Silvestres do Rio de Janeiro (CETAS-RJ) and is the first record of myxomatous degeneration of the left atrioventricular valve in this species., A criação de espécies silvestres como animais de estimação vem aumentando e ganhando espaço na vida familiar e, como consequência, os cuidados com os mesmos aumentaram, permitindo o diagnóstico de inúmeras enfermidades. Dentre elas, estão as doenças cardiovasculares, em especial nos psitaciformes. Entretanto, a inespecificidade ou mesmo a ausência de sinais clínicos associados à dificuldade da avaliação do sistema cardiovascular no exame físico das aves faz com que tais alterações sejam subdiagnosticadas na rotina clínica, sendo a maioria dos casos diagnosticados post mortem. O presente trabalho relata as alterações cardiovasculares reveladas em exame post mortem em indivíduos da espécie Amazona aestiva (papagaio verdadeiro) provenientes do Centro de Triagem de Animais Silvestres do Rio de Janeiro (CETAS-RJ) e faz o primeiro registro de degeneração mixomatosa da valva atrioventricular esquerda nesta espécie.

Birds of prey and from Psittacidae family are host to fungal microbiota and play an important role in the epidemiology of zoonoses. Few studies in the literature have characterized mycelial and yeast fungi in the droppings of these birds and correlated the isolates with the zoonotic potential of the microorganisms. Droppings from 149 birds were evaluated and divided into two groups: captive: Rhea americana araneipes, Primolius maracana, Ara ararauna, Ara chloropterus, Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus, Amazona aestiva, Ara macao macao, Ramphastos toco, Sarcoramphus papa, Busarellus nigricollis, Bubo virginianus nacurutu, Buteogallus coronatus, Buteogallus urubitinga urubitinga, Spizaetus melanoleucus, Spizaetus ornatus ornatus, Buteo albonotatus, Geranoaetus albicaudatus albicaudatus, Rupornis magnirostris magnirostris and Harpia harpyja, and quarantined birds: Amazona aestiva and Eupsitulla aurea. The fungal isolates were identified according to macroscopic (gross colony appearance), micromorphological and biochemical characteristics. Among birds displayed in enclosures, Aspergillus niger (41.1%) and Candida kefyr (63.8%) were the fungi most frequently isolated in Harpia harpyja and Ramphastos toco, respectively. For quarantined birds, the following percentages were observed in Eupsittula aurea , (76.6%) C. krusei, (84.4%) C. kefyr and (15.2%) C. famata, while in Amazona aestiva, (76.2%) C. krusei was observed. These findings indicate potentially pathogenic species in the bird droppings assessed, which constitute a risk of exposure for keepers and individuals who visit the zoo. Birds of the Cerrado and Pantanal of Mato Grosso (Central Western region of Brazil) could act in the epidemiological chain of important zoonoses.

This study aims at determining the echocardiographic, radiographic and tomographic parameters of blue-fronted Amazon parrots (Amazona aestiva) with varying body condition scores. Thirty-five birds grown in captivity were included in the study and allocated into groups according to their respective body condition scores: Lean, Ideal and Obese. The echocardiographic evaluation revealed that obese parrots presented lower right ventricle dimensions in diastole than lean parrots. The fractional shortening was considerably lower in obese parrots than in parrots with lean and ideal body condition scores, but without statistical significance. The flow rate and the aortic pressure gradient were lower in the lean group than in the ideal group. No differences were observed between the groups when comparing the radiographic and tomographic measurements. Therefore, as is the case in mammals, we can conclude that alterations in the nutritional state of blue-fronted amazon parrots lead to cardiovascular dysfunctions detected only through an echocardiographic evaluation, which represents an important diagnostic tool for these animals. Computed tomography scans allowed a better identification of the structures of the cardiovascular system without the overlaying structures of the celomatic cavity observed in radiographic images. However, radiographic examinations should still be considered the standard screening examination to identify cardiac alterations such as increased or reduced organ dimensions. Standardizing the technique and describing the measurements obtained in this study may serve as a basis for further research.

South America presents the greatest Psittacidae diversity in the world, but also has the highest numbers of threatened parrot species. Recently, exotic viruses have been detected in captive native psittacine birds in Brazil, however, their impacts on the health of wild parrots are still unknown. We evaluated the presence of Chlamydia psittaci, Psittacid alphaherpesvirus 1 (PsHV-1), avipoxvirus and beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) in wild Amazona aestiva, A. brasiliensis and A. pretrei nestlings and in wild caught A. aestiva nestlings seized from illegal trade. Samples were collected from 205 wild nestlings and 90 nestlings from illegal trade and pathogen-specific PCR was performed for each sample. Chlamydia DNA prevalence was 4.7% in A. aestiva and 2.5% in A. brasiliensis sampled from the wild. Sequencing revealed that the C. psittaci sample belonged to the genotype A. PsHV-1, avipoxvirus and BFDV DNA was not detected. These results have conservation implications since they suggest that wild parrot populations have a low prevalence of the selected pathogens and, apparently, they were not reached by the exotic BFDV. Stricter health protocols should be established as condition to reintroduction of birds to the wild to guarantee the protection of Neotropical parrots.

Here, for the first time, we describe the karyotype of Myiopsitta monachus (Psittacidae, Arini). We found 2n = 48, corresponding to the lowest diploid number observed in Neotropical Psittaciformes so far, with an uncommonly large W chromosome homomorphic to the Z. In order to better understand the evolution of the sex chromosomes in this species, we applied several molecular cytogenetic approaches, including C-banding, FISH mapping of repetitive DNAs (several microsatellite repeats), and whole-chromosome painting on metaphases of M. monachus. For comparison, another species belonging to the same tribe but with a smaller W chromosome (A. aestiva) was also analyzed. The results show that the constitutive heterochromatin has a very diverse distribution pattern in these species revealing heterochromatic blocks in the centromeric region of all chromosomes and in most of the length of the W chromosome in A. aestiva, while in M. monachus they were found in interstitial and telomeric regions. Concerning the microsatellites, only the sequence (CG)n produced signals on the W chromosome of A. aestiva, in the distal region of both arms. However, in M. monachus, (CAA)n, (CAG)n, and (CG)n probes were accumulated on the W chromosome, and, in addition, the sequence (CAG)n also hybridized to heterochromatic regions in macrochromosomes, as well as in microchromosomes. Based on these results, we suggest that the increase in length of the W chromosome in M. monachus is due to the amplification of repetitive elements, which highlights their significant role in the evolutionary process of sex chromosome differentiation.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the ophthalmic parameters of Amazona amazonica and Amazona aestiva maintained in captivity in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. Median ± S-IQR phenol red thread test was 21.9 ± 2.3mm/15s and 12.6 ± 2.6mm/15s, endodontic absorbent paper point tear test 14.9 ± 1.6mm/min and 13.1 ± 1.4mm/min, and intraocular pressure 8.3 ± 1.1mmHg and 9.7 ± 1.7mmHg for A. amazonica and A. aestiva , respectively. Corneal sensitivity was 0.50 ± 0.25cm for A. amazonica and 1.00 ± 0.00cm for A. aestiva . The mean ultrasonographic dimensions measured were anterior chamber depths of 2.0 ± 0.1mm and 2.0 ± 0.1mm, lens axial lengths of 3.6 ± 0.0mm and 3.6 ± 0.1mm, vitreous chamber depths of 7.9 ± 0.4mm and 8.0 ± 0.2mm, axial globe lengths of 13.5 ± 0.4mm and 13.6 ± 0.1mm, and pecten oculi lengths of 6.4 ± 0.5 and 6.3 ± 0.3mm for A. amazonica and A. aestiva, respectively. The development of complementary knowledge about the ocular morphology and histology of these parrot species can be used to contribute to advances in the ophthalmology of wild birds.

This paper provides the first description of the exploitation of floral resources of Ceiba pubiflora by birds in the Neotropical region. We sampled five different specimens of C. pubiflora , focusing on plant-bird and bird intra/interspecific aggressive interactions. We recorded thirteen species of birds exploiting its floral resources. Only hummingbirds are potential pollinators by feeding effectively on the flower corolla. Hylocharis chrysura and Heliomaster furcifer were considered the best potential pollinators and dominated the agonistic interactions. On the other hand, Icterus cayanensis and tanagers pierced the flower at the base of the corolla, drinking the nectar directly, without contacting the pollen. Psittacidae ( Aratinga nenday, Brotogeris chiriri and Amazona aestiva ) and Saltator coerulescens destroyed the flowers by feeding on petals. Although they are ineffective pollinators, the nectar and petals are valuable food resources for these birds, when fruits are scarce during the dry season.

Cryptosporidiosis in birds manifests as an acute or chronic disease of the respiratory or digestive tracts. The objective of our study was to perform the molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. in wild psittacines kept in captivity at the Araçatuba Municipal Zoo, São Paulo, Brazil. A total of 47 fecal samples were collected from Amazona aestiva, Psittacara leucophthalma, and Ara ararauna. All samples were collected at the time the birds defecated. DNA extraction was performed using the ZR Fecal DNA MiniPrep™ kit (Zymo Research). Screening for Cryptosporidium spp. was accomplished using nested PCR targeting the 18S RNA gene and sequencing of amplified fragments. Positivity for Cryptosporidium spp. (10.64%; 5/47) was found in A. ararauna (4) and P. leucophthalma (1) samples. The amplified fragments were sequenced and showed 100% genetic similarity with Cryptosporidium baileyi.

This study aimed to describe strip meniscometry test values for Amazona aestiva (turquoise-fronted amazon), Ara ararauna (blue-and-yellow macaw) and Caiman latirostris (broad-snouted caiman). Twenty-one Amazona aestiva and 11 Ara ararauna, healthy, adults of unknown sex, and 37 healthy adult Caiman latirostris (27 males and 10 females), were used in this investigation. All animals were manually restrained and I-Tear® Test strip was inserted for 5 s at the edge of the lower tear meniscus, without touching the eyelid or ocular surface, immediately followed by measurement (millimeter per 5 seconds). No differences were reported between left and right eyes for Amazona aestiva (P = 0.824), Ara ararauna (P = 0.262) and Caiman latirostris (P = 0.679). Median and confidence interval were 2.0 (2.25-3.56) mm/5s for Amazona aestiva, 3.0 (2.93-4.15) mm/5s for Ara ararauna and 3.0 (2.55-4.90) mm/5 s for Caiman latirostris. These values for strip meniscometry tear test can be used as parameters for each species and may be helpful for diagnosis and treatment of tear-production disorders in birds and reptiles. RESUMO: O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever os valores do teste de meniscometria lacrimal para Amazona aestiva (papagaio-verdadeiro), Ara ararauna (arara-canindé) e Caiman latirostris (jacaré-de-papo-amarelo). Vinte e um Amazona aestiva, 11 Ara ararauna adultos, de sexo desconhecido, e 37 Caiman latirostris adultos (27 machos e 10 fêmeas), foram utilizados nesta investigação. Todos os animais foram contidos manualmente e uma tira do I-Tear® test foi inserida por 5 segundos na borda do menisco inferior, sem tocar a pálpebra ou a superfície ocular, e imediatamente mensurada (milímetro por 5 segundos). Não foram encontradas diferenças entre os olhos esquerdos e direitos para Amazona aestiva (P = 0,824), Ara ararauna (P = 0,262) e Caiman latirostris (P = 0,679). Mediana e intervalo de confiança foram de 2,0 (2,25-3,56) mm/5 s para Amazona aestiva, 3,0 (2,93-4,15) mm/5 s para Ara ararauna e 3,0 (2,55-4,90) mm/5 s para Caiman latirostris. Estes valores para o teste de meniscometria podem ser utilizados como parâmetros para estas espécies e podem ser úteis para diagnosticar e tratar distúrbios de produção lacrimal em aves e répteis.

Lay summary Captivity has traditionally been considered a stressful habitat for wildlife. In this study, urofaecal glucocorticoid metabolites of wild and captive Blue-fronted amazon parrots (Amazona aestiva) subjected to different husbandry systems were determined. Results reveal lower corticoid levels in individuals maintained in captivity than in the free-ranging ones., Understanding stress physiology is crucial for species management because high levels of stress can reduce reproduction and the individual’s ability to face threats to survive. One of the most popular methods for non-invasive monitoring of animal endocrine status is the glucocorticoid (GC) metabolite measurements, which can provide important information about how animals are affected by their surrounding environment. Here, we carried out the biological validation of corticosterone enzyme immunoassays (EIAs), which together with a cortisol EIA was used to quantified the concentrations of urofaecal GC metabolites (uGCMs) in wild and captive Blue-fronted amazon parrots (Amazona aestiva). Urofaecal GC concentrations were significantly higher (P

Desde su captura hasta el destino final, los loros silvestres experimentan diferentes condiciones durante el transporte, originando así oportunidades de infección y transmisión de enfermedades. Conocer la prevalencia de parásitos en loros habladores silvestres (Amazona aestiva) permitirá un control más eficiente de las parasitosis en aquellos individuos destinados al cautiverio. Además, este trabajo ayudará a determinar qué parásitos son específicos del loro hablador, y cuales son los resultados de infecciones desde otras especies hospedadoras durante el proceso de comercialización. El objetivo de este estudio fue describir los parásitos gastrointestinales de los loros habladores en la región del Impenetrable Chaqueño, en Argentina. Fueron colectadas muestras de heces de 38 pichones y cuatro adultos. También se examinaron cuatro pichones muertos. Un tercio de los nidos inspeccionados (n=21) y un cuarto de los individuos examinados fueron positivos a la presencia de protozoos y helmintos. A nivel individual, Eimeria sp fue el parasito más prevalente (25%), seguido de Isospora sp (5%), Giardia lamblia (5%), Capillaria sp (2%) y Ascaridia sp (2%). Las inspecciones en busca de parásitos en las vísceras de los cuatro pichones hallados muertos por causas naturales, fueron negativas. Como en la mayoría de los estudios con loros silvestres, la prevalencia de parásitos intestinales en el loro hablador fue baja, si se compara con los valores reportados para loros en cautiverio. Debido a que los pichones de este loro son capturados frecuentemente para el tráfico de mascotas, conocer el ensamble de parásitos intestinales y su prevalencia en individuos silvestres, puede ser útil para el tratamiento de pichones destinados al cautiverio. From capture to final destination, wild parrots experience several conditions during transport which enhance/promote chances of infections and transmission of diseases. A better understanding of the prevalence of parasites in wild blue-fronted amazons (Amazona aestiva) will allow a more efficient control of the parasitosis in those individuals destined to captivity. Furthermore, it will be helpful in determining which parasites are specific to the blue-fronted amazons and which are the result of infections from other host species during the commercialization process. The objective of this study was to establish the baseline of gastrointestinal parasites of wild blue-fronted amazons in the Chaco region. We collected fecal samples of 38 nestlings and 4 adults, andexamined four dead nestlings. One-third of examined nests (n=21) and one quarter of the individuals examined were positive for protozoa and helminths. At the individual level, Eimeria sp was the most prevalent (25%), followed by Isospora sp (5%), Giarda lamblia (5%), Capillaria sp (2%) and Ascaridia sp (2%). The tests for parasites in theviscera of the four nestlings found dead from natural causes were negative. As in most wild studies, the prevalence of intestinal parasites in blue-fronted amazons was low, when compared to the parasitic infection levels reported for parrots in captivity. Because the nestlings of this parrot are frequently captured for pet trade, knowledge of theassemblage and prevalence of intestinal parasites of the species in wild individuals can be useful for the treatment of nestlings destined for captivity. Fil: Berkunsky, Igor. Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Ecosistemas y Desarrollo Sustentable; Argentina. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Argentina Fil: Ruggera, Román Alberto. Universidad Nacional de Jujuy. Instituto de Ecorregiones Andinas. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Salta. Instituto de Ecorregiones Andinas; Argentina Fil: López, M. S.. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - La Plata. Centro de Estudios Parasitológicos y de Vectores. Universidad Nacional de La Plata. Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Museo. Centro de Estudios Parasitológicos y de Vectores; Argentina Fil: Faegre, S. I.. University of Washington; Estados Unidos Fil: Aramburu, Rosana Mariel. Universidad Nacional de La Plata. Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Museo. Área Zoología; Argentina

The scientific literature mentions that neotropical birds of the family Psittacidae have some tendencies to natural and artificial changes in its plumage colours. In studies of plumage aberrant of the parrots were categorized six terms: albinism, eritrism, leucism, xantocroism, cyanism and melanism. We present a rare case of erythrism in species of Brazilian native parrot [Psittacara. leucophthalmus (Statius Muller, 1776)]; therefore, there is only a report of this type of aberrant plumage for Amazona aestiva (Linnaeus, 1758) and for an African species of the genus Agapornis, thus highlighting the importance of this record.

To further knowledge of the physiology of opioid receptors in birds, the structure and expression of the μ-, δ-, and κ-opioid receptor genes were studied in a peregrine falcon ( Falco peregrinus), a snowy owl ( Bubo scandiacus), and a blue-fronted Amazon parrot ( Amazona aestiva). Tissue samples were obtained from birds that had been euthanatized for poor release prognosis or medical reasons. Samples were taken from the brain (telencephalon, thalamus, pituitary gland, cerebellum, pons, medulla oblongata, mesencephalon), the spinal cord and dorsal root ganglions, and plantar foot skin. Messenger RNA was recovered, and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was performed to generate complementary DNA (cDNA) sequences. Gene structures were documented by directly comparing cDNA sequences with recently published genomic sequences for the peregrine falcon and the blue-fronted Amazon parrot or by comparisons with genomic sequences of related species for the snowy owl. Structurally, the avian μ-opioid receptor messenger RNA (mRNA) species were complex, displaying differential splicing, alternative stop codons, and multiple polyadenylation signals. In comparison, the structure of the avian κ-receptor mRNA was relatively simple. In contrast to what is seen in humans, the avian δ-receptor mRNA structure was found to be complex, demonstrating novel 3-prime coding and noncoding exons not identified in mammals. The role of the δ-opioid receptor merits further investigation in avian species.

Amazon parrots are long-lived birds with highly developed cognitive skills, including vocal learning. Several parrot mitogenomes have been sequenced, but important aspects of their organization and evolution are not fully understood or have limited experimental support. The main aim of the present study was to describe the mitogenome of the blue-fronted Amazon, Amazona aestiva, and compare it to other mitogenomes from the genus Amazona and the order Psittaciformes. We observed that mitogenomes are highly conserved among Amazon parrots, and a detailed analysis of their duplicated control regions revealed conserved blocks. Population level analyses indicated that the specimen analyzed here seems to be close to A. aestiva individuals from Bahia state. Evolutionary relationships of 41 Psittaciformes species and three outgroups were inferred by BEAST. All relationships were retrieved with high support.

Made available in DSpace on 2018-11-26T16:04:33Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2018-05-01. Added 1 bitstream(s) on 2019-10-09T18:25:28Z : No. of bitstreams: 1 S0102-09352018000300843.pdf: 773632 bytes, checksum: a29c450b978d3fb092cce27b2a8b378f (MD5) Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) Fundacao de Amparo a Pesquisa e ao Desenvolvimento Cientifico e Tecnologico do Maranhao Feather samples were obtained from the following Psittaciformes birds: Amazona amazonica, Amazona aestiva, Aratinga jandaya, Brotogeris spp., Ara ararauna and Ara chloropterus (total of 37 individuals). These birds were housed at the Wild Animal Screening Center of Maranhao, Sao Luis, Brazil. Four feathers were taken from the following regions: head, back, wings, belly/breast, thighs, and tail/covert. Mites were found on 17 birds (45.94%). Astigmatid mites belonging to the genera Fainalges (Xolalgidae), Chiasmalges (Psoroptoididae) and Tanyaralichus (Pterolichidae) were identified. The highest dominance coefficient was for the mite Fainalges sp. (DC= 96.29). Chiasmalges sp. was obtained only from Ara chloropterus, and Tanyaralichus was found in A. aestiva. The genus Fainalges was obtained from all the species of Psittaciformes studied, except for A. ararauna. In evaluating mite density according to body region, statistical differences were found between the back and wing regions (P= 0.041), back and thighs (P= 0.02), wings and tail (P= 0.002), belly and tail (P= 0.031) and thighs and tail (P= 0.001). The morphological variations observed in Fainalges spp. suggested the existence of three species that probably have not been described yet. This was the first record of the genus Tanyaralichus in Brazil. Univ Estadual Maranhao, Sao Luis, MA, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Rio Claro, SP, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Rio Claro, SP, Brazil FAPESP: 2011/50145-0

Psittacidae species are among the most threatened birds in the world. Approximately one-half of the 390 parrot species are experiencing population declines. The Blue-fronted Amazon (Amazona aestiva) is the most traded parrot worldwide and suffers from poaching and habitat loss. Many species of parrots, including the Blue-fronted Amazon, form communal roosts where they spend the night. Under certain circumstances, roost surveys can be a rapid and cost-effective way to obtain information about the demography of parrots or the consequences of threats. We surveyed an area of 2,700 km2 in a large wetland in mid-western of Brazil and located five Blue-fronted Amazon roosts. We conducted monthly counts of the birds arriving at these roosts for 28-61 months and stratified the counts into flock sizes. We used this information to estimate the number of parrots using these roosts to determine whether the roosts follow seasonal patterns and whether they have different flock-size structures and different dynamics throughout the year, as well as to determine the trends of the roosting parrots, which are stratified by flock size. The roosts were different, as they followed different seasonal patterns and had different flock-size structures, which could be interpreted in relation to the parrot breeding cycle. The trends of singletons, which index the number of reproductive couples each year, and the number of pairs parrots increased or fluctuated around a baseline, but the number of fledged young in the year declined throughout the study. This is of concern, as it indicates problems in population recruitment, which could have been unnoticed by the management authorities, as the total numbers were not decreasing. Although every monitored roost had birds of each age or reproductive condition strata, the fact that the roosts were different could be important in terms of management, as it will be more effective for the conservation of the Blue-fronted Amazon to protect a carefully chosen set of complementary roosts.

The parrot species Amazona aestiva is categorised as least concern by the Red List of Threatened Species and is one of the most popular parrot species to be traded illegally. Such illegal trade and degradation of its habitat is a threat to the species, with a decrease in the species’ population already reported. This study aimed to determine haematology and biochemistry reference values for A. aestiva to assist veterinarian and conservation programmes in the care of this species. Sampling was conducted in April 2014; a total of 32 birds were manually restrained, and their blood samples were collected and divided into two aliquots. Haematological parameters evaluated included red blood cell (RBC) count, white blood cell (WBC) count, differential leukocyte count, haematocrit, thrombocyte count, haemoglobin concentration and RBC indexes. The biochemical parameters measured were alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, gamma glutamyltransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, uric acid, cholesterol, triglyceride, calcium, phosphorus, creatinine, albumin, total protein and urea. Comparison between the male and female groups showed no significant difference in haematological parameters, and amongst the biochemical parameters, only calcium level was significantly different. No basophils or eosinophils were detected. Reference values of all measured haematological and biochemical parameters were recorded for the species. Although the results across studies may vary, it is important that all obtained information is revealed for future use. The data gathered in the present study add to the existing knowledge about A. aestiva and will be useful in the conservation and management programmes and for veterinarians.

The incidence of the psittacine beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) was investigated in Brazilian native parrots with normal feathering arriving at rescue and triage centers for wild animals (CETAS, IBAMA) in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. BFDV DNA was investigated by previously described PCR technique for the partial amplification of BFDV ORF-1 in DNA extracts from blood, cloacal swab or liver of psittacines. Some birds provided more than one sample. Nine species of psittacines were sampled between January 2009 and October 2010. Blood (n=46) or cloacal swab (n=128) samples were obtained from psittacines immediately upon arrival at the triage centers. Liver samples were collected from necropsied birds dead on arrival (n=167). All swab samples were negative, except for one Ara ararauna individual (n=3) which blood presented the BFDV DNA. On the other hand, 11 liver samples were positive for BFDV DNA, with a prevalence of 7.8% in Amazona aestiva (n=140). No BFDV DNA was detected in the liver of Amazona amazonica (n=11), A. vinacea (n=5), A. rhodochorytha (n=4), Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus (n=3), Ara ararauna, (n=3), Aratinga leucophtalma (n=2), Guarouba guarouba (n=1) and Pionus maximiliani (n=1). In most cases, alopecia was not associated with BFDV detection in liver, and liver histopathology was inconclusive. Although all cloacal swab samples were negative, a few psittacines (n=19) that died at CETAS-Belo Horizonte were retested, and 21% were detected as positive in liver. A group of psittacines (n=16) was clinically evaluated, and despite showing feather dystrophy, all birds were negative in the cloacal swabs, except for one, which blood sample was positive (A. ararauna). The obtained sequences of the BFDV strains BH 215 and BH 732 were deposited in the GenBank (JQ649409 and JQ649410). A 98% similarity with strain sequences described in Australia, Japan, and New Zealand was observed. It is possible that these strains arrived in Brazil through the legal and illegal trade of parrots. However, it was not possible to associate BFDV infection with the geographical origin of birds and no local marker was detected. The rates of detection, although similar to other studies, indicate the tendency of a high incidence of the disease, possibly associated with stress, and high bird density and wide transmission in captivity conditions.

ResumoProcedimentos anestésicos locais são realizados comumente em aves domésticas e silvestres, por ser de baixo custo e de rápida indução, desde que feitos com precisão, o que requer conhecimento anatômico específico da área a ser operada. Este trabalho objetivou estabelecer a origem e a distribuição do plexo braquial do papagaio verdadeiro (Amazona aestiva), através da dissecação da pele e da musculatura de 22 papagaios (17 machos e 5 fêmeas), provenientes do Centro de Triagem de Animais Silvestres do Distrito Federal, após óbito motivado por causas naturais, promovendo o isolamento das raízes formadoras do plexo braquial, bem como de sua ramificação. O plexo braquial foi formado através de quatro troncos, envolvendo os ramos ventrais dos segmentos medulares de C9 a C10, C10 a C11, C11 a T1 e T1 a T2, que se uniram em um curto tronco comum, ramificado em cordões dorsal e ventral. O tronco comum emitiu os delgados nervos subcoracóide e subescapular, além do ramo para o músculo escapuloumeral. O cordão dorsal deu origem aos nervos anconeal, axilar e radial, e o cordão ventral, os nervos peitoral cranial, peitoral caudal, coracobraquial e medianoulnar, cujos ramos supriram os músculos dos compartimentos extensor e flexor do membro torácico, músculos peitorais e pele sobrejacente.

Necropsies were conducted on a female blue-fronted Amazon (Amazona aestiva) and a female yellow-headed Amazon (Amazona oratrix) that died after depression, ruffled feathers, diarrhea, and biliverdin in the urine. Gross and microscopic examinations revealed multifocal necrosis in the liver, spleen, lungs, kidneys, intestines, and heart caused by acute bacteremia. Yersinia pseudotuberculosis, serogroup O:1a, was isolated by culturing from the visceral lesions in the liver, intestines, and spleen. Virulence gene analysis showed the presence of the inv gene and the complete pathogenicity island: IS100, psn, yptE, irp1, irp2 ybtP-ybtQ, ybtX-ybtS, and int asnT-Int. Histopathologic findings and chemical analysis also demonstrated hepatic hemosiderosis. As has been demonstrated in other species, hemosiderosis may predispose Amazona spp. to systemic infection with Y. pseudotuberculosis after enteric disease.

This research was partially funded by a grant to EHCO from CNPq (309699/2015) and to MAFS from the Wellcome Trust in support of the Cambridge Resource Centre for comparative genomics. Universidade Federal do Par?. Programa de P?s-Gradua??o em Gen?tica e Biologia Molecular. Bel?m, PA, Brazil / Minist?rio da Sa?de. Secretaria de Vigil?ncia em Sa?de. Instituto Evandro Chagas. Laborat?rio de Cultura de Tecidos e Citogen?tica. Ananindeua, PA, Brasil / Cambridge Resource Centre for Comparative Genomics. Cambridge, ES, UK. Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul. Programa de P?s-Gradua??o em Gen?tica e Biologia Molecular. Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil. Cambridge Resource Centre for Comparative Genomics. Cambridge, ES, UK. Cambridge Resource Centre for Comparative Genomics. Cambridge, ES, UK. Universidade Federal do Pampa. Programa de P?s-Gradua??o em Ci?ncias Biol?gicas. Laborat?rio de Diversidade Gen?tica Animal. S?o Gabriel, RS, Brazil. Universidade Federal do Pampa. Programa de P?s-Gradua??o em Ci?ncias Biol?gicas. Laborat?rio de Diversidade Gen?tica Animal. S?o Gabriel, RS, Brazil. Cambridge Resource Centre for Comparative Genomics. Cambridge, ES, UK. Minist?rio da Sa?de. Secretaria de Vigil?ncia em Sa?de. Instituto Evandro Chagas. Laborat?rio de Cultura de Tecidos e Citogen?tica. Ananindeua, PA, Brasil / Universidade Federal do Par?. Instituto de Ci?ncias Exatas e Naturais. Faculdade de Ci?ncias Naturais. Bel?m, PA, Brazil. Abstract: Most Neotropical Psittacidae have a diploid number of 2n = 70, and a dichotomy in chromosome patterns. Long-tailed species have biarmed macrochromosomes, while short-tailed species have telo/acrocentric macrochromosomes. However, the use of chromosome painting has demonstrated that karyotype evolution in Psittacidae includes a high number of inter/intrachromosomal rearrangements. To determine the phylogeny of long- and short-tailed species, and to propose a putative ancestral karyotype for this group, we constructed homology maps of Pyrrhura frontalis (PFR) and Amazona aestiva (AAE), belonging to the long- and short-tailed groups, respectively. Chromosomes were analyzed by conventional staining and fluorescent in situ hybridization using whole chromosome paints of Gallus gallus and Leucopternis albicollis. Conventional staining showed a karyotype with 2n = 70 in both species, with biarmed macrochromosomes in PFR and telo/acrocentric chromosomes in AAE. Comparison of the results with the putative avian ancestral karyotype (PAK) showed fusions in PFR of PAK1p/PAK4q (PFR1) and PAK6/PAK7 (PFR6) with a paracentric inversion in PFR6. However, in AAE, there was only the fusion between PAK6/7 (AAE7) with a paracentric inversion. Our results indicate that PFR retained a more basal karyotype than long-tailed species previously studied, and AAE a more basal karyotype for Neotropical Psittacidae analyzed so far.

Parrots are one of the most distinct and intriguing groups of birds, with highly expanded brains [1], highly developed cognitive [2] and vocal communication [3] skills, and a long lifespan compared to other similar-sized birds [4]. Yet the genetic basis of these traits remains largely unidentified. To address this question, we have generated a high-coverage, annotated assembly of the genome of the blue-fronted Amazon (Amazona aestiva) and carried out extensive comparative analyses with 30 other avian species, including 4 additional parrots. We identified several genomic features unique to parrots, including parrot-specific novel genes and parrot-specific modifications to coding and regulatory sequences of existing genes. We also discovered genomic features under strong selection in parrots and other long-lived birds, including genes previously associated with lifespan determination as well as several hundred new candidate genes. These genes support a range of cellular functions, including telomerase activity; DNA damage repair; control of cell proliferation, cancer, and immunity; and anti-oxidative mechanisms. We also identified brain-expressed, parrot-specific paralogs with known functions in neural development or vocal-learning brain circuits. Intriguingly, parrot-specific changes in conserved regulatory sequences were overwhelmingly associated with genes that are linked to cognitive abilities and have undergone similar selection in the human lineage, suggesting convergent evolution. These findings bring novel insights into the genetics and evolution of longevity and cognition, as well as provide novel targets for exploring the mechanistic basis of these traits.

Background: The indiscriminate use of antibiotics both in humans and in animals, has contributed to the development of bacterial resistance. One of the key mechanisms in the resistance of enterobacteria to antibiotics is the production of extendedspectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs), which reduce the therapeutic options available. Several studies have been performed in different animal species in order to isolate and identify multidrug-resistant strains and determine their antibiotic sensitivity profile. The purpose of this study was to detect ESBL-producing enterobacteria in isolates from a pet blue-fronted amazon parrot.Case: A 16-year-old pet blue-fronted-amazon parrot (Amazona aestiva) weighing 0.445 kg, from the city of Presidente Castelo Branco, Paraná, Brazil, was admitted into a specialized veterinary clinic in the city of Maringá. This parrot was presented with agitation and aggressive behavior. It was fed with sunflower seeds, and its cage was small and unsanitary especially in the feeding and drinking areas, which were heavily contaminated with feces. The parrot had been diagnosed with acute sinusitis approximately one year prior, with a history of treatment with tylosin, thuya (a herbal remedy popularly used for fowl pox), and a mineral-vitamin complex. The clinical symptoms included dyspnea and bilateral increase of facial swelling, with a mass in the peri-nasal region. A membranous red tissue not related to the nictitating membrane was observed in the lower left eyelid. To obtain a better clinical evaluation, the bird was anesthetized with an intramuscular injection of dextroketamine 50 mg/kg (KetaminS+™). Subsequently, physical examination, head radiographic examinations, and an attempt at sinus draining were performed. The radiographic examinations showed a decreased amount of air in the nasal sinuses. For treatment, oral itraconazole and vitamin A were prescribed, and a dietary improvement, prioritizing the offering of fruits and industrialized food for parrots was proposed. Samples were collected from the cloaca and choanae by making rotating movements with compressed sterile swabs in the corresponding locations. All samples were kept in Amies transport media with activated coal and forwarded under refrigeration to the Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine and Public Health in the Post-Graduation Program in Animal Sciences with Emphasis in Bioactive Products at Universidade Paranaense (UNIPAR).Discussion: The samples were subjected to phenotypic antimicrobial sensitivity tests and phenotypic testing for detecting ESBL-producing strains. Escherichia coli was identified and isolated from the cloacal sample. Phenotypic tests for antimicrobial sensitivity, detected resistance to the following antimicrobials: ceftriaxone, ceftiofur, cefotaxime, cefepime, ampicillin, amoxicillin, amoxicillin + clavulanate, and tetracycline. The phenotypic test for detecting ESBL-producing strains was positive. The findings in this study had no relation with the clinical symptoms presented by the parrot. However, in the samples collected, it was possible to detect the presence of ESBL-producing Escherichia coli, indicating that this parrot had strains in its cloacal microbiota that were either multidrug-resistant or at a subclinical stage of an infection. This knowledge is important, since the presence of this bacteria in a pet represents an important factor in the dissemination of multidrug-resistant strains into the environment, as well as being a source of contamination for both humans and other animals.

Illegal trade threatens the survival of many wild species, and molecular forensics can shed light on various questions raised during the investigation of cases of illegal trade. Among these questions is the identity of the species involved. Here we report a case of a man who was caught in a Brazilian airport trying to travel with 58 avian eggs. He claimed they were quail eggs, but authorities suspected they were from parrots. The embryos never hatched and it was not possible to identify them based on morphology. As 29% of parrot species are endangered, the identity of the species involved was important to establish a stronger criminal case. Thus, we identified the embryos' species based on the analyses of mitochondrial DNA sequences (cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene [COI] and 16S ribosomal DNA). Embryonic COI sequences were compared with those deposited in BOLD (The Barcode of Life Data System) while their 16S sequences were compared with GenBank sequences. Clustering analysis based on neighbor-joining was also performed using parrot COI and 16S sequences deposited in BOLD and GenBank. The results, based on both genes, indicated that 57 embryos were parrots (Alipiopsitta xanthops, Ara ararauna, and the [Amazona aestiva/A. ochrocephala] complex), and 1 was an owl. This kind of data can help criminal investigations and to design species-specific anti-poaching strategies, and demonstrate how DNA sequence analysis in the identification of bird species is a powerful conservation tool.

The progressive exploitation and destruction of nesting habitat in recent years, combined with the substantial pressure from legal and illegal removal of wild nestlings and adults, justifies the development of a comprehensive study on the reproductive biology of the Turquoise-fronted Parrot (Amazona aestiva). We analyzed breeding parameters in a wild protected population of Turquoise-fronted Parrots in the Chaco forest, Argentina, examining variation among years, over the course of the breeding season, and in relation to the age of the nest. Mean clutch-size per nesting attempt was 3.68 eggs. Hatching success (proportion of eggs laid that hatch) was 0.73. Fledging success (proportion of nestlings that fledge) was 0.88. The overall breeding success (mean number of fledglings per laying female per year) was 0.95. Clutch size did not vary among years but it decreased with the delay of the nest initiation date. Hatching failure was the greatest cause of egg partial losses, and brood reduction was the main cause of nestling partial loses. Brood reduction was positively correlated with clutch size and with egg-laying date. We did not find interannual variation in any of the clutch or brood size variables. Our results showed that the population of Turquoise-fronted Parrots in the dry Chaco forest has high values of clutch size and nestling survival, and low values of hatching success. However, some aspects of the breeding biology need more attention, especially if the species continues to be harvested. L'exploitation et la destruction progressives de l'habitat de nidification advenues ces récentes années, combinées à la pression élevée de captures légale et illégale d'oisillons et d'adultes sauvages, justifient la mise en place d'une étude globale sur la biologie de reproduction de l'Amazone à front bleu (Amazona aestiva). Nous avons analysé les paramètres de reproduction d'une population sauvage protégée de cette amazone dans la forêt du Chaco, en Argentine, examinant les variations interannuelles, tout au long de la saison de reproduction, en relation avec l'âge du nid. La taille moyenne de la ponte par tentative de nidification était de 3,68 oeufs. Le succès d'éclosion (proportion d'oeufs pondus qui ont éclos) était de 0,73. Le succès à l'envol (proportion de jeunes qui ont pris leur envol) était de 0,88. Le succès de nidification d'ensemble (nombre moyen de jeunes à l'envol par femelle nicheuse par année) était de 0,95. La taille de la ponte n'a pas varié d'une année à l'autre, mais était plus faible lorsque la date d'initiation du nid était retardée. L'échec de l'éclosion était la cause la plus importante de perte partielle d'oeufs et une couvée réduite était la cause principale de perte partielle d'oisillons. La couvée réduite était positivement corrélée avec la taille de la ponte et la date de celle-ci. Nous n'avons pas observé de variations interannuelles des variables relatives à la taille de la ponte ou de la couvée. Nos résultats indiquent que la population de l'Amazone à front bleu de la forêt sèche du Chaco montre des valeurs élevées de la taille de ponte et de la survie des oisillons, mais des valeurs faibles du succès d'éclosion. Néanmoins, nous pensons qu'il serait important de se pencher davantage sur certains éléments de la biologie de reproduction de l'espèce, particulièrement si elle continue d'être prélevée. Fil: Berkunsky, Igor. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Argentina. Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Ecosistemas y Desarrollo Sustentable; Argentina Fil: Segura, Luciano Noel. Universidad Nacional de La Plata. Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Museo. Departamento Científico Zoología Vertebrados; Argentina Fil: Ruggera, Román Alberto. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Argentina. Universidad Nacional de Jujuy. Instituto de Ecorregiones Andinas. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Centro Científico Tecnológico Conicet - Salta. Instituto de Ecorregiones Andinas; Argentina Fil: Faegre, Sarah I. K.. University of Washington; Estados Unidos Fil: Trofino Falasco, Clara. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Argentina. Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Ecosistemas y Desarrollo Sustentable; Argentina Fil: López, Fernando Gabriel. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Instituto de Ciencias de la Tierra y Ambientales de La Pampa. Universidad Nacional de La Pampa. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales. Instituto de Ciencias de la Tierra y Ambientales de La Pampa; Argentina Fil: Velasco, Melina Alicia. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Argentina. Universidad Nacional de La Plata. Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Museo. División Zoología de Vertebrados. Sección Herpetología; Argentina Fil: Kacoliris, Federico Pablo. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Argentina. Universidad Nacional de La Plata. Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Museo. Departamento Científico Zoología Vertebrados; Argentina Fil: Aramburu, Rosana Mariel. Universidad Nacional de La Plata. Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Museo. Departamento Científico Zoología Vertebrados; Argentina Fil: Reboreda, Juan Carlos. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Oficina de Coordinación Administrativa Ciudad Universitaria. Instituto de Ecología, Genética y Evolución de Buenos Aires. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales. Instituto de Ecología, Genética y Evolución de Buenos Aires; Argentina

Safe and effective sedation protocols are important for chemical restraint of birds in clinical and diagnostic procedures, such as clinical evaluations, radiographic positioning, and blood collection. These protocols may reduce stress and ease the management of wild-caught birds, which are susceptible to injury or death when exposed to stressful situations. We compare the sedative effect of intranasal midazolam in wild-caught blue-fronted (Amazona aestiva) and orange-winged (Amazona amazonica) Amazon parrots. Ten adult parrots of each species (n = 20), of unknown sex, weighing 0.337 ± 0.04 (blue-fronted) and 0.390 ± 0.03 kg (orange-winged), kg were used. Midazolam (2 mg/kg) was administered intranasally and the total volume of the drug was divided equally between the 2 nostrils. Onset time and total sedation time were assessed. Satisfactory sedation for clinical evaluation was induced in all birds. Onset time and total sedation times were similar in both species: 5.36 ± 1.16 and 25.40 ± 5.72 minutes, respectively, for blue-fronted Amazons and 5.09 ± 0.89 and 27.10 ± 3.73 minutes, respectively, for orange-winged Amazons. A total of 15 animals showed absence of vocalization, with moderate muscle relaxation and wing movement upon handling, and 2 animals presented with lateral recumbence, with intense muscle relaxation and no wing movement, requiring no restraint. Three blue-fronted Amazons had no effective sedation. Intranasally administered midazolam at a dose of 2 mg/kg effectively promoted sedative effects with a short latency time and fast recovery in wild-caught parrots.