Ornithology: Share and discuss scientific articles on parrots!

[Laurasea]

As the topic of the day is Coronavirus.
I found this, describes Coronavirus ( different subtype than our current Pandemic) in Amazon parrots in Brazil.

" Considering the risk of inter-species host switching and further adaptation to new hosts, detection in bird species of CoVs closely related to mammal CoVs should warn for the potential emergence of new threatening viruses."
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/m/pubmed/26250156/?i=4&from=/29769348/related

PS thanks Lamanku! Great article sorry I missed it before!

More about coronavirus in captive birds.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/m/pubmed/21142971/?i=4&from=/26250156/related#fft

 

[texsize]

I don't know of a better place to post this.
It could go under Good reads but that's kind of general.
Anyway I found that the book Alex & Me by Irene Pepperberg is available free (in ebook format for Amazon prime members).

I have been working on reading it and am enjoying much of the story.

 

[Laurasea]

Thanks for posting! Great!

 

[Cardinal]

I don't know of a better place to post this.
It could go under Good reads but that's kind of general.
Anyway I found that the book Alex & Me by Irene Pepperberg is available free (in ebook format for Amazon prime members).

I have been working on reading it and am enjoying much of the story.

Sadly not available in India. but I have read the book already. Good book but not the greatest of books IMO

 

[NewQuakerMom]

Excellent thread!!!

 

[Laurasea]

Heavy Metals, Especially Lead, Zinc and Copper
Metals are everywhere in our environments and are an often overlooked source of toxicity in pet birds. Metals can be found in paint, linoleum, soldering, wire, zippers, twist ties and many other objects on which birds love to chew. Even some older bird toys, especially the clappers on metal bells, have been found to contain lead. Birds who may chip away over time at a lead-painted windowsill, lick a metal bell toy, nibble on the soldering of a stained glass Tiffany lamp or chew on a metal zipper are constantly ingesting heavy metals and can potentially become intoxicated. When ingested in large enough quantities, these metals can damage nerves and cause vomiting, maldigestion, neurologic signs, such as imbalance and clenched toes and even seizures. Most cases of heavy metal toxicity in birds are treatable if they are diagnosed early enough before permanent nerve damage has occurred. However, these metals are not routinely tested for in birds unless the owner indicates that his or her bird has been exposed. So, if you think your bird may have ingested any of these substances, speak up to your veterinarian immediately, as it could be the difference between life and death.

2. Avocado
Several parts of the avocado plant, but especially the leaves, contain a fatty acid derivative called persin, which has been reported to cause heart failure, respiratory distress and sudden death in a variety of bird species. It is possible that some varieties of avocado are safe for some bird species, such as Lories, who have been fed avocado without problems. However, no one is sure what types of avocado are okay for which species, so it’s better to be safe and not offer your bird the guacamole.

3. Caffeine
Caffeine may be a pick-me-up for you but a definite downer for your bird. Caffeinated drinks such as coffee, tea and soda are tempting to share with your bird, but even a few sips of these beverages can be extremely hazardous to your feathered pal. Caffeine may cause increased heart rate, arrhythmias, hyperactivity and even cardiac arrest in birds. So stick to water and occasional sips of safe fruit drinks, such as apple or cranberry juice, and keep him heart healthy.


4. Chocolate
Like us, many birds love chocolate. But chocolate can cause vomiting and diarrhea in birds. Even worse, chocolate contains both caffeine and theobromine, which can increase heart rate, cause hyperactivity, induce tremors and seizures, and potentially lead to death in birds. In general, the darker the chocolate, the higher the percentage of cacao (which are the seeds that contain theobromine and caffeine) and the more toxic it is to your pet. Do your birds a favor — give them a sugary fruit treat, like a slice of ripe banana or some juicy grapes, and save the chocolate for yourself.

5. Onions and Garlic
These yummy spices, believed to be heart healthy for people, are well-known toxins to dogs and cats and have caused fatalities in geese and other pet birds. Onions — cooked, raw or dehydrated — contain sulfur compounds that, when chewed, can cause rupture of red blood cells, leading to anemia (inadequate numbers of red blood cells). Onions also can irritate a bird’s mouth, esophagus and crop, and may lead to ulcers. Garlic contains a chemical called allicin, which in rare cases also can cause anemia in birds. Bland is best in birds — keep the spices out of your birdie’s body.

6. Salt and Fat
Salt: Many of us overindulge in this favorite condiment, and birds love it, too. Let’s face it — what bird doesn’t love to munch on a bunch of salty chips, popcorn, crackers or pretzels? But for a small bird, a few chips or pretzels can contain potentially toxic amounts of salt that can upset his electrolyte balance, leading to excessive thirst, dehydration, kidney dysfunction and even death. Similarly, fatty foods, such as large amounts of butter, nuts and fatty meat, can lead to the buildup of fat deposits within arteries (known as atherosclerosis) that can make some birds, like people, prone to heart disease and stroke. Some bird species, such as Amazon parrots and Quakers, seem to be predisposed to high cholesterol and triglyceride levels and to coronary artery disease, just like humans. Also, in general, the smaller the bird, the higher the risk with even a few bites of high fat or high salt foods, so to be safe, simply avoid these foods in birds’ diets.

7. Fruit Pits and Apple Seeds
Most birds love fruit, and most fruit is safe for birds. But when offered certain fruits with seeds (like apples and pears) and pits (like cherries, apricots, peaches, nectarines and plums), birds should never be allowed to eat the seeds and pits, as they contain small amounts of cardio-toxic cyanide. The seeds found in other fruits, such as grapes, citrus fruits, squash, pumpkins, tomatoes, melons, mangoes, pomegranates and berries, all are safe for bird consumption. Just core out the seeds and pits of cyanide-containing fruits and let your birds enjoy the rest.


8. Xylitol
Though this artificial sweetener, found in sugarless gum and many diet foods, hasn’t been studied extensively in birds, it causes severe hypoglycemia, liver damage and potential death in dogs. Consequently, it’s best not to take chances in birds who have a higher metabolism than most mammals and who could potentially be affected by very small amounts of this chemical. Birds don’t need to chew gum or eat artificially flavored low-cal foods. Overweight birds can munch on low-starch veggies to keep calories down. Keep the sugar-free stuff away.

9. Smoke and Other Aerosols
Along with the edibles, there are some other things that can be highly toxic to birds. For example, smoking is unhealthy enough for people, but it’s even worse for birds, whose airways actually inhale and exhale simultaneously with every breath and who are extremely sensitive to smoke and other aerosols. Spray cleaners, hair spray, perfumes, incense and even candle fumes can irritate birds’ lungs and air sacs (little clear membranes birds have throughout their bodies under their skin to help them breathe). These products should never be used around birds, and if birds are accidentally exposed to them, they should be moved to well-ventilated areas immediately. Exposed birds who do not start to breathe at a normal rate and with normal effort simply with better ventilation should be brought to a veterinarian as soon as possible for supportive therapy, such as fluids and oxygen. The moral is: If you’re going to spray, keep the birds away.

10. Teflon
Most bird owners know, but a few still do not, the dangers of nonstick cookware around birds. When Teflon and other nonstick surfaces are heated to very high temperatures, they emit microscopic vapors that when inhaled by birds’ exquisitely sensitive respiratory tracts can cause instant death. Numerous birds within a single household have been reported to die simultaneously when Teflon pans are burned near them. In general, all nonstick cookware and other nonstick coated appliances, including some stoves (in particular, the self-cleaning oven feature) and toasters, should be avoided in homes with birds. If birds are exposed accidentally to fumes from these pans or appliances, they should be brought to a well-ventilated area, such as the outdoors, immediately to help clear their airways. Unfortunately, even with immediate relocation to a better ventilated area, most birds exposed to these fumes die quickly without any signs before they can be brought to an animal hospital for oxygen therapy and other treatment. The manufacturer of any questionable appliance should be contacted before these appliances are used around birds. In general though, the rule is for bird owners is: Just say no to nonstick.

Of course, there are many other toxic items potentially toxic to birds, such as certain plants, lurking in our homes. If we just use common sense, supervise our beloved birds when they’re out of their cages, and offer them only nontoxic foods and toys to chew on, they are more likely to remain safe and happy. As always, if you have any questions about whether something could be potentially toxic to your pet, consult a bird-savvy veterinarian.

 

[Laurasea]

Chronic zinc toxicity, can happen more than we think. So info on this.

" And from a different article, note ITCHY us a symptom listed below
"More commonly however is chronic zinc poisoning, where small amounts are taken in over a period of time. This is often not in the form of zinc metal, so x-rays may not show up any metal particles in the stomach.

Signs of chronic zinc poisoning may be vague, with depression, lethargy, weight loss and problems eating. Chronic zinc poisoning has been show to be a cause of feather picking in some birds and appears to cause feather loss, skin changes and itching in others.

Chelation treatment can resolve picking in these cases. There are obviously many causes of feather destructive behaviour and zinc poisoning is perhaps over diagnosed as a cause of feather picking. Feather loss on the head, where the bird cannot pick the feathers, can be suspicious for zinc poisoning, although again this is only one of many possible causes.

The most common source of zinc is newly galvanised wire. This can be made safer by brushing the wire and applying a mild acetic acid (vinegar) to remove powder and particulates.

Zinc or zinc alloys are found in a number of household items, including coins, keys, wire, staples and jewellery. The metal in older or less reputably sourced cages can contain zinc. Powder coatings prevent access to the metal, but care should be exercised if the coating is chewed off to expose the metal underneath.

Blood samples can be used to determine zinc poisoning, however the diagnosis is a little trickier than with lead. Firstly when taking the blood sample, a special syringe that does not have a rubber plunger must be used, as contact with rubber will affect the result.

Also normal zinc levels vary widely across different species of Parrot and even within some species. Some birds will have high zinc levels with no apparent ill effects. This can make it problematic to definitively say that the level of zinc within the bird is high enough to cause a problem." https://www.northernparrots.com/mob...nks&affc=ad67b188-cd16-48f6-937b-6eab973c7730

A second good resource on heavy metal poisoning in parrots / birds.
https://todaysveterinarypractice.com/lead-and-zinc-toxicity-in-birds/

 

[BoomBoom]

I love these posts. Some feed my parront paranoia but better to know than not know.

Thanks for starting this thread. Hope you and your flock are well.

 

[Laurasea]

I love these posts. Some feed my parront paranoia but better to know than not know.

Thanks for starting this thread. Hope you and your flock are well.

Thank Boom Boom
I had to laugh at parrot paranoia! You need to coin that! And isn't it oh to true!

I do worry about zinc, there are a lot if shady parrot toys with metal that doesn't seem like stainless steel!!!

 

[Laurasea]

Bumping so you can check out above info on metal toxicity

 

[wrench13]

Some brasses are called leaded brass, because , surprise, they have lead in the recipe for the brass, to improve the machining capabilities. Some low carbon steel also contain lead, for the same reason. Steels I would not expect to find in common things used around parrots, but leaded brass 'may' find their way into links or chains or cheap bells. I would imagine they would be chrome plated, but with repeated use, chrome plating, which is very very thin ( like 0.0001" or less), can wear away with time and repeated rubbing. Another source of lead in metals is solder. Lead in solder has been banned in the EU, the US and China for several years now, however old stock of given items could predate the removal laws. And I suspect anything coming from China, based on first hand personal experience. Things made of brass ( if they are not just plain brass, which is yellow-ish) can be determined by using a magnet, because brass in not magnetic. Chrome plated brass links etc, will not be magnetic, and look very shiny. Common stainless steel ( ie 18-8 stainless) is also non-magnetic, but polished stainless has a different appearance then chrome plated parts. Always a good idea to know what metals your parrot is being exposed to. Metal parts, and cages too, should be examined regularly for signs of rust and corrosion, especially in high wear areas and nooks and crannies, and in blind holes where moisture is trapped. Examples for that might be in mounting hardware for food and water bowls.

 

[SailBoat]

Brass fixtures industry in North America moved fully away from lead added to brass at the same time those governments band lead in solder. As Al stated above, there is no assurance that China manufactured brass home fixtures, marine hardware, toys, etc. do not contain lead... When the change came, it required that the melting pots be replaced as the lead would continue to leach out of the melt pots contaminating the next batch.

Also, several of China's steel plants are contaminated from use of recycled radioactive material. Once those pots are contaminated it doesn't go away.

 

[Rozalka]

New classification of lories and lorikeets? https://static1.squarespace.com/sta...665c90f57/1594726004125/Joseph_et_al_2020.pdf


I observe the classification on a Polish website -yesterday they wrote an update about new verson, I think this is like in the link (all new genera are the same) but didn't change their list (I mean they wrote it in updates but not in the list - the last change was about new genus Parvopsitta)
Edit: Ops, no it's not exactly the same. On he Polish webside there's no Synorhacma and Charmosynoides genera

 

[Laurasea]

Just adding a link on weaning, the rest are in pages 10-14 I think...
we often have weaning question
Weaning Baby Birds - CHICAGO EXOTICS ANIMAL HOSPITAL

 

[texsize]

Here is a short article about tears in birds and reptiles I ran across this morning.

https://www.cnn.com/2020/08/13/world/birds-reptiles-cry-similar-tears-humans-scn/index.html

 

[Laurasea]

Here is a short article about tears in birds and reptiles I ran across this morning.

https://www.cnn.com/2020/08/13/world/birds-reptiles-cry-similar-tears-humans-scn/index.html

Fascinating, we share so many connections with the creatures of this world. Plus I’m always happy when they are advso science and care of our parrots

 

[Laurasea]

Came across this

“ The 1929–1930 psittacosis pandemic, also known as the psittacosis outbreak of 1929–1930 and the great parrot fever pandemic,[2] was a series of simultaneous outbreaks of psittacosis (parrot fever) which, accelerated by the breeding and transportation of birds in crowded containers for the purpose of trade, was initially seen to have its origin in parrots from South America. It was shortly found to have spread from several species of birds from several countries worldwide to humans between mid 1929 and early 1930. Diagnosed by its clinical features and link to birds, it affected around 750 to 800 people globally, with a mortality of 15%. Its mode of transmission to humans by mouth-to-beak contact or inhaling dried bird secretions and droppings was not known at the time. The cause, Chlamydia psittaci, which usually remains dormant in birds until activated by stress of capture and confinement, was discovered after the pandemic. “

“ The impact of the outbreak on the U.S. Hygienic Laboratory, with 16 of its workers affected, including two deaths, led to the formation of the National Institute of Health. “

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1929–1930_psittacosis_pandemic

 

[Rozalka]

Came across this

“ The 1929—1930 psittacosis pandemic, also known as the psittacosis outbreak of 1929—1930 and the great parrot fever pandemic,[2] was a series of simultaneous outbreaks of psittacosis (parrot fever) which, accelerated by the breeding and transportation of birds in crowded containers for the purpose of trade, was initially seen to have its origin in parrots from South America. It was shortly found to have spread from several species of birds from several countries worldwide to humans between mid 1929 and early 1930. Diagnosed by its clinical features and link to birds, it affected around 750 to 800 people globally, with a mortality of 15%. Its mode of transmission to humans by mouth-to-beak contact or inhaling dried bird secretions and droppings was not known at the time. The cause, Chlamydia psittaci, which usually remains dormant in birds until activated by stress of capture and confinement, was discovered after the pandemic. “

“ The impact of the outbreak on the U.S. Hygienic Laboratory, with 16 of its workers affected, including two deaths, led to the formation of the National Institute of Health. “

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1929–1930_psittacosis_pandemic

did you noticed there are terrible mistakes in subscribing photos? Budgies are called lovebirds:46:
Edit: I couldn't look at it and fixed

 

[Laurasea]

Historically non bird people were worse at identifying parrots than they are now

I just found it do interesting that NIH was founded after this!

Also were people more sensitive to psrrit fever in the past???? Was it because parrots were just being introduced in large numbers into America’s pet trade? Was it a nasty more virulent strain of the bacteria?

 

[Rozalka]

Historically non bird people were worse at identifying parrots than they are now

But Wikipedia isn't so old Especially this article - I've just checked it was created in 2019 as a stub and next was extendent - on 16 July 2020 was on the main page of Wikipedia in "Did you know?" - this means it was extendent this year (there is a time limit (10 days?) since extenting to application to this Wikiproject).


On the other hand everything there must have sources and this is the past - 1929-1930... I checked this image - https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:SLNSW_85569_Lovebird.jpg - this is old and is subscribed as "lovebird". Once time I've already written about mistake (it was wrong conure species) on Wikimedia Commons but I don't have answer till today...